Water trucks are often used for construction projects, pool refilling and fire and disaster support, but did you know that water trucks are also commonly used for film production? Below are some of the many ways that water trucks are used behind the scenes during film production.

Potable Water

Water truck companies offer clean potable water for filling production trailers for hair and makeup, wardrobe, honeywagons, combo trailers, motorhomes and more.

“wardrobe trailer” by Daniel, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from original

Street Wet Downs

Directors of Photography (DPs) often do what’s called a “wet down” to help give the streets and sidewalks a nice reflection and create a more dramatic effect.

“Walk down the Strøget” by Kenny Louie, used under CC BY 2.0 / Resized and cropped from original

Street wet downs can also help create the illusion of a cold rainy evening even if filming is taking place during a warm summer night.

Street wet downs also help create continuity between shots. For example, if it will rain on some days and not others, DPs may decide to do wet downs on non-rainy days in order to retain continuity during filming.

“Wet December Plaza” by Sarah Nichols, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from original

Dust Control

Water trucks are often used while filming in dusty environments to help minimize the amount of dust that gets stirred up and get clearer shots.

“Water truck” by Phil, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / Cropped from original

Special Weather Effects

Water trucks can also be custom rigged to create a variety of special effects from rain to snow, fog, sleet and even wind. Some water trucks feature remote controlled pumps, high pressure spray head pumps, controlled water streams, water cannons, and more.

“DSC02088” by Robert Lake, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original

In Nevada, we have professional water truck companies who offer a variety of water trucks to fit your film production needs.

If you are looking for water trucks for your next project, check out our online Nevada Production Directory for a list of water truck companies in Nevada or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

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

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