There are standard pieces of video production equipment that are essential for every film project.
Trust me, from experience I know that a single missing cable or a dead battery can ruin a whole day of shooting. So to reduce the chances of an interrupted shoot, here's a list of video equipment you're going to need, whether you're a seasoned professional or an amateur.
With this information, you'll be able to make sound choices regarding video making equipment, rather than relying on a salesperson to select the equipment for you. You'll not only have a bunch tools but reliable equipment that will help you in every phase of the entire video production process.
The basics must include video, video support, audio, lighting and accessories.
In addition, remember to stay within your budget and purchase only what you need. Although high end equipment will surely give good results if they are used properly, there are cheaper alternatives which might give out the same results without breaking the bank.
1. Digital Video Camera or Camcorder
First things first, you'll need a camcorder. This is your number one priority; how will you shoot a video without a camera right?
Choosing a camera can be quite tricky so always, and I mean always, think of the type of shoots you plan to use it for.
2. Tripod
Unless you plan to do a sequel of the Blair Witch Project, I suggest you buy a tripod. This will help avoid unnecessary movement and lets you focus on the particular subject.
3. External Microphone
Most camcorders have built in microphone but it's best to get hold of an external mic. More often than not, sound quality matters even more than video. One can put up with a less-than-ideal footage if it has crystal clear sound. However, no matter how good a video looks, if the audio is poor it will be very difficult to sit through.
4. Extra Batteries and Recording Media
Always keep a battery or disk in your bag for emergencies. Believe me, the fastest way to end a shoot is by filling up your disk space.
5. Video Lights and Light Reflectors
Lighting in a film isn't always ideal so to improve picture quality I recommend that you use video light and reflectors. These Reflectors are used to reflect light towards your subject.
6. Computer
Video editing is a process that can only be handled by computers with really high performance and configurations.
7. Video Editing Software
This works directly with item 6 (Computer). This software makes up the third stage of video production; post-production.
Apart from Windows Movie Maker and Apple's iMovie, there are free applications you can download online such as Wax, Zwei-Stan, CineFx etc.
That's it! Those are just basic equipment and there are other things you might need.
On a final note, you can have a van full of equipment and not get satisfying outputs. Proper planning and application of skills are imperative to make a video successful.
0 comments:
Post a Comment