essential

a basic list for shooting alone

  • Digital video camcorder
  • Empty storage medium (or plenty of free space)
  • Mic (a lavalier/clip mic works well for solo filming)
  • Headphones
  • Tripod (always keep baseplate on the tripod)
  • Two pence (to tighten the baseplate)
  • Spare batterys (charged)
  • Bag to put it all in

Check everything fits together, the lens is clean & you have run a camera test before you leave

add this lot for a small shoot

  • Microphone
  • Mic to camcorder extention lead
  • Mic batteries (depends on your mic)
  • Boompole
  • Mic windshield (for exterior sound)
  • Reflector (for lighting)
  • Battery charger
  • Cameras mains adaptor (often two parts)
  • Pen (to label tapes etc)
  • Torch (small bright)
  • Wet weather cover &/or umbrellas
  • Gaffer tape
  • Swiss army knife, leatherman, or small tool kit

Use this list to start your own checklist

consider these for interior work

  • Film lights
  • Lighting stands
  • Spare bulbs
  • Gloves to change bulbs

other bits

  • Extension reel (mains)
  • Monitor (with relevant cables to connect to camera)
  • Coloured lighting gels
  • Fuses
  • Camera tape (its like gaffa but nicer because it peels off easily)
  • Instruction manuals
  • Laptop & card reader (to back-up as you go)