Being a DP is demanding, but the job is made so much harder if you don't come to set with all of the tools you're going to need. This is why it's crucial to bring along a ditty bag that is full of essential items, but unless you've had some experience working on film sets you may not know exactly what those items are. So, to give you a better idea, cinematographer Julia Swain shares a bunch of the tools that she takes with her on every project in this video from Aputure. Check it out below:

Every cinematographer packs different things inside their ditty bag, but Swain's suggestions are a great place to start if you're not sure what to bring. So here are her five must-haves:

  • Light meter
  • Point-and-shoot camera
  • Smartphone
  • Multi-tool
  • Personal surveillance earpiece

Swain also suggests bringing these items, though they're not quite as essential:

  • Light bulbs
  • An Aputure M9 (or some other tiny LED light that you can stick anywhere)
  • Grip gloves

Bringing along all of these things is a great start, but there are so many other items that will prove to be insanely useful once you're on set. Several that come to mind are water, carabiners, gaff tape, pens/Sharpies, and over-the-counter meds for headaches and muscle pain. Also, bring extra batteries of all types. In fact, it wouldn't be a bad idea to dedicate an entire bag or case to assorted batteries.

What are some essential tools that you always bring with you on set? Let us know down in the comments!

Source: Aputure

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Cinematography & Cameras