Filmmaking is exciting in many ways, which you already probably know whether you are a beginner or an experienced professional. Putting together your video production equipment is also part of the fun. Many variables can determine the right gear for you, like the type of project, locations, and your budget. While you might be aiming to become the next James Cameron, it’s best to use relatively affordable equipment in the beginning. Hopefully, this list will assist you if you do not know where to start and what are some essential things you need for filmmaking.



Video Camera
A centerpiece of your filmmaking gear would be your video camera. Depending on the type of shooting you are having, whether it is stealthy, static, etc., and your budget, you should choose accordingly. It is also essential to have in mind where you will show off your masterpiece. Will it be in theater, broadcast, or only online.

Whatever camera you obtain, make sure that it can capture excellent audio. Even though it is hard, the best camera for making a film on a budget can be found. You need to do research first. In case you are not sure about which camera to choose, you could always start with a camcorder, the DSLR, or a mirrorless camera. It is possible to get a model that has 4K video. This is why the search is definitely worth the trouble. In case you are a beginner and are just starting your filmmaking, it would be wise to go even cheaper and make it a part of your kit.

Perfect Lighting
Every filmmaker needs is good lighting. It would be recommended, especially for beginners and students, to rent instead of buying their own. If you are a student, it would be wise to learn how to use more professional equipment that can be found in your school before deciding to own personal lightning tools. They can often be bulky, but nonetheless, they do the work.

Another option, if you are having trouble with the budget, is to buy LED lights. The technology now has massively improved over the past decade. By purchasing them, you can create your affordable lighting kit. It is also easier than it sounds. LED lights have benefits compared to traditional fluorescent and tungsten fixtures. One of the advantages is that they run on batteries and are incredibly compact. If you decide to go on that route, this home-made kit can end up as a great replacement that you can use on set.

Audio Set
The next would be the audio equipment. There is no need to spend too much of your finances to obtain reliable audio set with headphones in case you decide that you are the one who is going to deal with the sound without anyone's help. They can make it possible for you to listen to your sound and that way will let you know what exactly you are getting.

Headphones are essential. Without them, it would be like you are recording a video without not having a camera screen to check it out afterward. If you find dealing with sound too complicated, you can have a dedicated sound expert on set like so many other professionals. He can handle all your recording needs.

Camera Support
One of the things that are considered a necessity for filming is proper support. There is nothing better than a tripod. Tripods can spare beginners of a lot of hustle and provide steady dollies and pans. For those who learn how to work with them, various tricks will come in handy and can even replace the need for more expensive cranes.

If you are unsure of which ones are the best, focus on a tripod that is powerfully built. The lighter ones do not provide as much stability as they would. Ones that are made of aluminum and center column ones should be avoided as much as possible. As the price goes up so does their durability. Before buying one, also think about what your filmmaking needs are.



Film Away
Even though it is creative and fulfilling, filmmaking is an expensive profession. Regardless if you are someone who is learning the gig on your own or you are a film school student, finding proper equipment sometimes may be costly. Although that is true, look at it as a long-term investment that will be of use for many years to come. Make an educated and informed decision while scooping around and when you find something that you find in accordance with your taste levels, go on and film.