The Walt Disney Family Museum in San Francisco’s Presidio is a treasure trove of rare artifacts and memorabilia that showcase the life and career of Walt Disney. One of the museum’s most significant attractions is the Multiplane Camera, which played a pivotal role in the history of animation.
Developed by Disney animator Bill Garity in 1937, the Multiplane Camera allowed for the separation of different elements in a scene, such as background, mid-ground, and foreground. This innovation revolutionized animation by opening up new possibilities for what could be achieved on screen. For over 50 years, this technology was used in every Disney feature film, making it an integral part of Disney’s animation legacy.
One of the most elaborate sequences shot using the Multiplane Camera was in Pinocchio, released in 1940. The intricate scene depicted the town bell chiming, birds flying through the air, and school children rushing through the village streets. To capture these shots accurately, an entire team was required to operate the camera rig with one operator perched on top to control each shot.
The placement of the Multiplane Camera at The Walt Disney Family Museum required extensive redesign of its layout to accommodate this historical piece of equipment. Visitors to the museum can witness its impressive design as it spans across multiple floors, highlighting how technology shaped Disney’s animation legacy over time.
For those interested in exploring Disney’s innovations in animation and filmmaking or theme park endeavors, a visit to The Walt Disney Family Museum is a must-see experience. Immerse yourself in over 100 years of creative achievements at this unique museum located within San Francisco’s historic Presidio area.
To learn more about visiting The Walt Disney Family Museum or any other exhibits they offer on their website for more information!
