How many times has this happened to you? You're on set trying to solve a problem, but you don't have the necessary tools to do it. Is the answer 12 billion? Of course it is, because a filmmaker's job is essentially fixing a bunch of issues until you eventually end up with a finished film. It can be frustrating not having the gear and accessories you need to do your job and make your life on set easier, so filmmaker Peter McKinnon has listed seven essential things you will probably want to keep on hand during a shoot. Check it out below:

There are so many little, random items that come in handy when you're on set, including plastic bags for keeping your gear safe from the rain, Sharpies, and flashlights, but here are the supplies McKinnon mentions in his video that will absolutely save your life one day:

  • Duck clamps: You know, for clamping.
  • Cable ties: If you don't want loose wires or gear going wild in your bag or on your set, cable ties make short work of them.
  • Gaff tape: The filmmaker's fix-all: gaff tape.
  • Cap cases: McKinnon's idea of nestling a body cap and lens cap to make a portable memory card holder is pretty awesome.
  • Grip heads: These things let you mount just about anything, from foam core to boom poles.
  • Acoustic blankets: A noisy appliance ruining your audio? A little light leak fudging up your shot? An acoustic blanket has got your back.
  • Friction arms: Thanks to an articulating arm and mounting options, friction arms are a must-have on any film set.

If you want to learn more about essential supplies you should keep on hand while shooting a film, click here and here. Read the lists, make a list, and then go shopping.

What kinds of random accessories do you think are absolutely essential for filmmakers on set? Let us know in the comments below.

Source: Peter McKinnon

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