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One of the best reasons why filmmaking is fun is the experience of building and setting up your film gear. Any film enthusiast must have proper equipment before starting with a film shoot. However, take note that there is no such thing as “one size fits all.” Not because your friend Jasper has some lenses and tripods means you must have the same. Some variables affect what you can shoot and how you can do it. So let us talk about the gear you will need for your filmmaking shoots.
Today’s content is sponsored by Express Cinema Rental, one of the best places you can go for your filmmaking needs. But with that out of the way, let’s get into it.
A Word For The Beginner Filmmaker
A camera would be one of the best ways to get started with filmmaking. Such a device allows you to take shots and videos with decent quality. However, you have to get better gear. Obtaining them will guarantee that your shoots will have more atmospheric or cinematic results. But once you settle that, it would be nothing but progress from that point onward.
You will also consider your budget. Filmmaking is a splendid way to express yourself, but it can also be too much for your wallet. The industry demands quality, and you will need top-grade equipment for that. In short, filmmaking is fun but expensive.
Some Factors Affecting What Equipment You Will Need
We get it that you want to get those shots right away. However, some determinants will affect how you do things.
- Do you have plans to sell your stills and videos?
- Will you use the equipment for home functions only?
- Are you going to film your travels?
- And so on
Our Standard Equipment List
Another challenging part would be picking the appropriate gear for you, regardless if you have a plan, to begin with, the industry or are a veteran. Filmmakers have various means of sharing their stories, and the same goes with the equipment they utilize. So we have made a list of your equipment needs. You can pick, mix, and match whatever you will need for your shoot.
- Camera
A camera is your sure-fire way of getting off the ground. You can capture beautiful photos and videos with any high-end camera that has multiple features and settings. You can also utilize a camera not only for simple reasons but also for travel and extreme sports.
- Smartphone
You might be raising your eyebrows with this one. But you have to hear us out – smartphones are ideal for beginner movie making. With models today that can compete even with DSLR cameras, you can film with your phone anywhere and anytime. Plus, these devices also have features where you can edit what you capture. A smartphone can get you started with filmmaking.
- Lens
It should be clear as day that your camera cannot function without any lens. The attachment is the key to getting rich imagery. You might have to prepare some cash, for lens can cost an arm and leg.
- Tripod
Your camera’s high-end quality means nothing if you cannot stabilize your shoot. It is paramount that you capture that still without getting disturbed. A small shake or bump would be enough to ruin the entire capture. That is why you will need a tripod for your filmmaking endeavors. But with a tripod on hand, you can upgrade your camera into a better filmmaking tool.
- Gorilla pod
A gorilla pod is the next best alternative, coming second to tripods. You can create perspective shots and challenging angles with such a device. You can even try hanging your camera with one of these bad boys. Be careful, though.
- Microphones
A film would not be complete without audio, sounds, and dialogue. So what better device to capture and record but microphones? You will find that there are thousands of microphones available in the market today, and each has its different function.
- Lighting kits
Lighting kits prove to be efficient for shooting films in interiors and dark settings. We highly recommend that you set up a three-way lighting kit to get the best results.
- Gimbal
A gimbal acts as a camera stabilizer. The neat thing about these devices is that they are flexible in terms of size. You can have one that fits well with your camera or smartphone. Some options work nicely with professional video camera recorders.
- Editing software
You can piece everything together with the right editing software. You can achieve Hollywood-level quality with just a couple of edits and a touch of special effects. The neat thing about editing software is you can learn about them at your own pace. You do not have to be a professional film editor to make your piece stand out. So take your time learning the applications and software.
- Equipment bags
Now you have all the equipment for your film. You even have the perfect place to shoot. What’s left would be finding an efficient and spacious bag that can fit everything you will need. That is when a film equipment bag will come in handy. You can find ones with specific carrying capacities, extra features, and so much more.
How About Renting Equipment Instead?
There is still the option of renting them out instead if you do not have the cash to invest in filmmaking equipment. Doing so will not only save you some money. But renting will allow you to access equipment without having the trouble of purchasing just so you can sample out.
Furthermore, many companies and websites exist that deal with such filmmaking rental services, such as Expressway Cinema Rental. You can find out more about what the company has to offer once you visit their site. It’s free to do so, and you can even give it a shot right now.
As A Conclusion
You can improve on your filmmaking endeavors with the proper equipment. You also need to consider your budget. That is why you should do some research before you start purchasing or renting. Good luck!
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