Gear Recommendations (Not Cameras or Lenses)

Gear. We all need it, but whats ACTUALLY good? With this blog, I hope to give you some recommendations that are useful, and hopefully wont break the bank

As a cinematographer, the most important thing to me is light, so that's where we will start. While lighting depends on the look your going for, you can choose the traditional style lights like Mole Richardson or some Arri fresnels. In modern film, however, LED lights are seen on almost every set. The reason being the cost savings, being able to be powered via battery, and not as hot, meaning you can break down faster.

The top companies I've seen on set are Nanlite, Apurture, and Amaran. I will be offering 2 different options, one "expensive" and one budget option. I will only include lights I have used or know a lot about. These links are not affiliate links.

Lighting:

1. The Apurture 1200x.

BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1849142-REG/aputure_ap20334a20_storm_1200x_bi_color_led.html

The 1200x is a great and powerful light. It can fill an entire space, replicate sunlight, and more. Its big and bright and honestly great. Its bi-color meaning you can dial in color temperature.

2. The budget option would be the Amaran 300c.

   BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1762211-REG/amaran_ap30011a10_300c_rgb_led_monolight.html

The Amaran 300c is also a very bright light. Its also bi-color and RGB so you can really get creative. This is a GREAT value for the price. This light could easily be $1,100.

Stands:

1. Impact C-Stand

   BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/850444-REG/Impact_ls_ct40mbk_Turtle_Base_C_Stand_Kit.html

   
   

   The c-stand is industry standard. I have 4 of them, but i always end up renting more. they're great for lights, mics, cameras, hanging modifiers, etc. They're an incredible and much needed piece to your gear kit.

2. Promaster light stand.

   Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Promaster-LS1-Basic-Light-Stand/dp/B007KZPLTS?source=ps-sl-shoppingads-lpcontext&ref_=fplfs&psc=1&smid=A3FR7YOQDCCAIT&gQT=1

   
   

   At the bare minimum you need a light stand. They make attachments for mics and other lights. The promaster is a good, cheap stand but I wouldn't put anything too heavy on it.

Cases:

1. Pelican 1510

   BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1241003-REG/pelican_015100_0050_110_1510tp_carry_on_case_with.html

A good case can make or break how easy load in and out is. Having all your gear in one plase is important. For me, I own 4 pelican cases. 2 for cameras and camera accessories, one for lights, and one for audio. Its a lot easier to carry 4 cases than a bunch of bags and crates.

2. Another great option is Nanuk.

   
   

   Cases are one of those things you dont want to go too budget friendly on. The pelicans are only $300, but theyre incredibly strong.

Video Transmission:

Allowing the director to view your footage is key. They need to see whats being shot and make adjustments for the actors or maybe shoot it in a different way to play the scene better. For me, I swear by Hollyland. I love how easy they are, how great they are at what they do, and the price point. The more expensive option is the Teredek, which is industry standard, but they cost 3-4 times more.

1. Teredek

   BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1841011-REG/teradek_10_2260q_bolt_6_lt_750.html

The more expensive option is the Teredek, which is industry standard, but they cost 3-4 times more.

2. Hollyland (My choice)

   BH: https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1824709-REG/hollyland_pyro_s_wireless_video.html

Well there we have it. My recommendations and some comparisons for basic gear you need to get going. Feel free to reach out with questions.