Behind every great movie is a behind-the-scenes world where the magic happens—where directors, actors, and crew bring the vision to life. Set photos offer a glimpse into this world, capturing moments of creativity, camaraderie, and sheer cinematic artistry. Here are 12 of the coolest set photos in movie history that provide a fascinating peek into the making of iconic films.
The Shark and the Cigarette – Jaws (1975)
One of the most iconic set photos in movie history features director Steven Spielberg casually leaning on the massive mechanical shark, affectionately nicknamed “Bruce,” with a cigarette dangling from his lips. This image captures the calm amidst the chaos of filming Jaws, a movie that would go on to become a benchmark in suspenseful filmmaking.
rarehistoricalphotos.com/jaws
Stanley Kubrick and the Maze – The Shining (1980)
In this haunting set photo from The Shining, director Stanley Kubrick is seen standing in the middle of the intricate hedge maze, looking down at his notes. The image perfectly encapsulates the meticulous attention to detail that Kubrick was known for, as well as the eerie, unsettling atmosphere that permeates the film.
Youtube
Leia and Chewbacca – Star Wars: A New Hope (1977)
A candid shot from the set of Star Wars: A New Hope shows Carrie Fisher (Princess Leia) sharing a laugh with Peter Mayhew (Chewbacca), with Mayhew still in full Wookiee costume. This photo is a heartwarming reminder of the camaraderie and fun behind the scenes of one of the most influential sci-fi films of all time.
MovieStillsDB
The Fellowship in the Snow – The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (2001)
A behind-the-scenes image from The Fellowship of the Ring shows the entire Fellowship, including Viggo Mortensen, Elijah Wood, and Orlando Bloom, trekking through the snow during the filming of the Caradhras sequence. The photo showcases not just the actors in character, but the breathtaking New Zealand landscape that became synonymous with Middle-earth.
IMAGO / ZUMA Wire
Marlon Brando and the Makeup – The Godfather (1972)
This iconic set photo features Marlon Brando in the makeup chair, transforming into Vito Corleone with the help of the film’s makeup artist. The photo highlights the behind-the-scenes effort that went into creating one of the most memorable characters in film history, complete with Brando’s signature jowls and intense gaze.
Paramount Pictures
Bruce Lee Kicking It – Enter the Dragon (1973)
A striking set photo from Enter the Dragon shows Bruce Lee mid-kick, captured in perfect form. The image is a powerful testament to Lee’s extraordinary martial arts skills and his enduring influence on action cinema. The dynamic shot is both a tribute to his athletic prowess and his cinematic legacy.
NomadSound
The Burning of Atlanta – Gone with the Wind (1939)
One of the most dramatic set photos in movie history comes from the filming of Gone with the Wind, where the iconic scene of Atlanta burning was captured. The photo shows the scale and intensity of the practical effects used to create this unforgettable moment, with massive flames engulfing the set as cameras roll.
Vintageworks.net
Heath Ledger’s Joker at Play – The Dark Knight (2008)
A chilling yet playful set photo from The Dark Knight shows Heath Ledger, in full Joker makeup, balancing on a skateboard while on set. This image captures the duality of Ledger’s portrayal—both terrifyingly intense and oddly playful, a testament to the actor’s deep immersion in the role that would define his career.
Warner Bros.
Sigourney Weaver and the Xenomorph – Alien (1979)
In a rare and amusing set photo from Alien, Sigourney Weaver (Ripley) is seen having a casual chat with the man inside the Xenomorph suit during a break in filming. The contrast between the terrifying creature and the relaxed, everyday moment is both fascinating and funny, highlighting the humanity behind the horror.
theartofcostume.com
Quentin Tarantino and the Cast – Pulp Fiction (1994)
A cool and casual set photo from Pulp Fiction shows director Quentin Tarantino, John Travolta, and Uma Thurman in a light-hearted moment during the shooting of the famous dance scene. The photo is a perfect encapsulation of the laid-back yet intensely creative energy that defined the making of this cult classic.
filmgoblin.com
