If you know me I like to be prepared. Building your kit is highly dependent on your role on set, but I recommend these basic items should be with anyone at any time.
Must-haves:
Media Cards (SD, Compact Flash, etc. faster is better)
Flash drive (for sharing files easily) | External hard drive (for backing up footage and projects)
Headphones (over-ear is best)
– My Favorite Low-Cost Headset | Best Affordable Professional Headset
Gloves (leather for heat, regular for not getting hurt)
Pen | Sharpie
Highly Recommended:
Multi-tool | Flathead screwdriver (for mounting plates)
Gaff tape (1″ or 2″ black, other colors available)
Red/Green paper tape (DIT System)
Card Reader (USB 3 or faster)
Pencil | Dry erase marker
Recommendations:
SD card recommendations:
– 1080p recording | 4K recording | RAW recording
Laptop (for backing up footage, checking footage, research, etc.)
Screwdriver set
Allen wrenches
Short power strip
USB cables – all types
Small Notepad / Notebook (for when your phone dies)
Ibuprofen or pain relief medicine (Anyone with a headache will thank you)
Small video camera (for behind the scenes shots, your phone may do as well)
Phone tripod holder (for behind the scenes and time-lapse shots)
Some specialty items for your specific role may include:
Camera Department
– Slate or clap sticks (AV Syncing)
– Grease Pencils (marking follow focus)
– Spike tape (for making marks for actors)
Lighting Department
– Grip Gear
– Dimmer Switch
Audio Department
– SD cards, syncing gear
Producer
– Printed scripts
Script Supervisor
– Printed script, 3 ring organized binder
– Gold fold (very expensive yet very handy)
– Highlighters (for marking the script)