Video Production Equipment and Filmmaking Gear Check-list

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Video Production Equipment /
Filmmaking Gear (Check-List)

Below is a video production equipment list for the beginner filmmaker. This is simply a starter guide in your search for some basic filmmaking gear. Each item is linked to a specific piece of equipment which may or may not work for your project. They are simply representative of the type of equipment you MAY want to use.

Basic Documentary Video Camera Package:

Video Camera

Tripod (get one with a fluid head if you can afford it)

Camera Light

Three Point Lighting Kit (I recommend fluorescent lights)

Audio (XLR) Cables

Boom Mic with Boom Pole

Wireless Microphone

Video Tapes, Video Cards or DVD’s (depending on your camcorder)

Light Reflector

3-4 Extra Batteries

Lenses: Wide Angle Lens, Clear “protective” lens, Circular Polarizer, etc.

Headphones

Specialty Gear for the "Cool" Shots:

Steady Cam

Tripod Dolly

Helmet Cam

Jib Arm/Crane

What Camcorder To Buy For Documentary Filmmaking

It can be a major process deciding what filmmaking equipment to buy. There is not a "one size fits all" equipment package for everyone since there are so many variables (budget, type of project, locations, pro vs amateur, etc). But there are some clues you can follow.

A visitor to Desktop Documentaries posted this question and there's an interesting discussion with some specific camcorder recommendations.

Visitor Question - Nov. 24, 2011:
What Camcorder Should I Buy For Documentary Filmmaking?

More articles:
How to choose a camcorder
How to buy a camcorder

SteadiCam Demonstration by Garrett Brown

Share your OWN equipment list
(or wish list)

Do you already have video production equipment? Share what you've learned! Include your own equipment list here or post your video equipment wish list..

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