When it comes to deciding what camera to buy, everyone has an opinion. But one thing we can all agree on is that you just don't buy a camera, and that's it. You'll need to invest in different accessories to ease the burden of your specific workflow.
Below are some of my favorite filmmaking accessories and gadgets that you can pick up for under $50.
Aputure Spotlight 10-Piece Gobo Kit
This 10-piece kit allows you to create really unique backgrounds to spice up any production with a spotlight and cut-out filters. From Fireworks to Linear, Church Window to Lightning, put some terrific looks together with the projection attachment of your Light Storm.
Kondor Blue Body Caps
Protect the sensor of your camera with this aluminum, space grey, locking Body Cap from Kondor Blue. Not only are these super functional and durable, but your camera will also stand out on any set.
Watson 8
Watson 8-Bay Rapid Charger
This handy gadget can charge up to 8 AA or AAA NiMH or NiCd Rechargeable Batteries in a flash—no matter how you insert them! In as little as two hours you can be fully charged.
Camera Hot Shoe Level
Place this nifty gadget on the hot shoe of your camera and with just a glance you can see if your shot is level. Perfect stocking stuffers.
Polar Pro Defender Lens Cover
These are absolutely a must-have. Made of tough, durable rubber, your lenses are fully protected with these stay-in-place lens covers. Once you try these, you’ll never go back to plastic covers.
Moment CineBloom Diffusion Filters
Handy grips make these filters super easy to screw on, and I love the film-like, beautiful look they give your footage. Available in both a 10% and a 20% version.
Viltrox L116T
Viltrox L116T Ultra-Thin LED Video Light
I’ve been a fan of this light for many years. I still think it’s a great buy—with or without the battery. Warm, soft, bi-color light with adjustable brightness controlled by an easy LED panel. You can also power it with a DC adapter. Can’t beat it for the price.
Polar Pro Slate Memory Card Case
Aluminum on the outside, rubber on the inside, this durable case protects your memory cards, no matter the size. This layered system will allow you to stack multiple cards in various sizes, keeping your footage safe and sound.
Sprig Cable Management Anchor
These little guys are super handy. Rivets on these small anchors attach to a 1/4 20 mount to help you keep your cables nice and tidy on any rig. For $18, these anchors get the job done.
Kondor Blue Coiled Full HDMI Cable
Kondor Blue Coiled HDMI Braided Cable
This is the last HDMI cable you will ever buy. With Kondor Blue’s lifetime guarantee and weighing in at under $20 bucks, this heavy-duty cable is a steal. Perfect for connecting your Atomos Ninja V Recorder to the Sony a7S III.
Do you have any favorite accessories? Share them in the comments below.
