What Is Creative Geography?

Creative geography, also known as artificial landscape, is a filmmaking technique invented in the 1920s by Russian filmmaker Lev Kuleshov. It refers to the method of filming scenes at multiple locations or various times of the day but editing them in such a way that it appears to be one continuous location or time.

Kuleshov accidentally discovered this technique while experimenting with editing techniques. In his short film The Project of Engineer Prite, Kuleshov wanted to show characters watching electric poles. He shot two separate scenes in different parts of Moscow – 1) the characters looking out of a field, and 2) the poles. By juxtaposing these two clips together, he was able to help viewers infer that the two shots were in the same location and that it was a single continuous scene.

In modern film and television production, a frequent use of creative geography can be seen when a character is shown entering a real house through an exterior door and the next interior shot (of the living room or kitchen, for example) is one that is set up on a sound stage.

If you are looking for editors to help you with your creative geography ideas for your next project, visit our online Nevada Production Directory to find experienced Nevada production crew and support services or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you offer production and film-related services in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be accurate and true to the best of our knowledge. All data and information provided on this site is for informational/entertainment purposes only. If there are any inaccuracies, you may submit corrections and sources by visiting our Contact page. Nevada Film Office makes no representations as to accuracy, completeness, currentness, suitability, or validity of any information on this site & will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. All information is provided on an as-is basis. We do not sponsor or endorse anyone in our posts nor do we receive compensation of any kind in exchange for providing information about specific websites or resources unless otherwise noted, so please check for references, business licenses or credentials as you feel necessary.