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One of the most critical elements in crafting a believable historical scene is signage. Rena explains that advertisements and signs must be historically accurate. For instance, she notes the types of signs used in the 1950s, such as hand-painted advertisements, which were prevalent in many storefronts. The subtle variations in text—raised versus flat—also serve as indicators of the sign's age.
In "Bridge of Spies," specific signage is employed to resonate with the industrial atmosphere of the 1950s Dumbo, contrasting sharply with its current look dominated by high-rise apartments. Rena points out the importance of cultural signifiers, such as Hebrew signage and specific food advertisements, that evoke the community’s character of that time.