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There is a lot of gear available for filmmakers and they love to have all of the latest gadgets. This can be overwhelming for people who want to make a film because they often think that they need all of this equipment.

It is important to know what you actually need to have before you get started, and you can add other gear as you need them. Continue reading to learn essential film gear that you need to make a film.

  1. Tripod: The tripod is essential for holding the camera steady. You need one if you plan to make a film.
  2. Lenses: You need more than the lens that came with your camera. There are different kinds that will enhance your film, including those with bokeh, tones, and other features.
  3. Color Chart: Your camera will do whatever you set it to do, but you need to decide on the colors. A color chart will ensure that you get the color in each scene exactly how you want it.
  4. Key Light: You might think that your camera is the most important piece of equipment, but your lighting is even more important.
  5. Accent Light: You need accent lighting as well as your key light.
  6. C-Stand: This is useful for mounting microphones, mounting cameras, hanging soundproofing, and more.
  7. Shotgun Mic: Good sound and audio is as important as good video, if not more so.
  8. Audio Recorder: It allows you to record audio.
  9. Camera: You can’t make a film without a camera.

Is the List of Gear Always the Same?

Although this is a list of the gear that you need so you can make a film, different filmmakers might tell you that you need other gear that isn’t on the list. Some might say that you can’t do it without a light meter, while others will tell you that it is necessary to get a camera cage. You can find filmmakers who say that you only need a camera and a lens to get started.

Because filmmaking is such a personal experience, you will learn what pieces of equipment are essential to you as soon as you start shooting. Your personal experience will let you know what you want or need.

If you do a lot of traveling, you might want a protective gear bag. People who shoot outdoors most of the time also add a reflector. This list can serve as a guide for you, but you will want to add the gear that you need for the shooting you do.