LOW BUDGET FILMMAKING: SHOOT “MUST HAVE” LIST

Every low budget filmmaking venture is different, and what we list here may not at all apply to you and your upcoming shoot. We just thought we’d jot down a few things that seem to reoccur on shoots – who knows, maybe there are one of two things on here you hadn’t thought of.

Script, storyboard and shot list – these are the blueprints of your shoot. If you leave them at home you may as well stay at home yourself. Always make enough copies for everyone.
Oversized white cards – no matter how much you worked on your scripts, there are often lines your actors have trouble with. When that happens these cards with those lines of dialogue written on them will be your very best friends.
First aid kit – there is not much to say about this. You HAVE to have one.
Pen, paper and other essentials – everything from safety pins to string can come in very handy while shooting. Make sure you have a little bit of everything with you.
Water bottles, food and drink – even if you cannot provide a feast for your cast and crew, make sure there is fresh water for everyone. Bottled water usually goes down well with everyone. If you can, keep your stuff in a cooling box of course.
Step ladder or stool – you never know when you’ll need something to stand on.
Foldout chairs – you never know when you’ll need something to sit on. (If you have a long day, everyone will need to rest his or her legs a few times between takes.)
Towels and blankets – if you have scenes that involve water you will certainly need towels. If you’re shooting outdoors or someplace without heating, bring a stack of blankets just in case. A comfortable cast and crew means a happy cast and crew, and a happy cast and crew means a better shoot.
Umbrellas – if that weather forecast just wasn’t telling the truth, these will have you covered and dry.
Toilet roll and kitchen roll – in case nearby public bathrooms are horrible you can be sure the staff and crew will thank you for being thoughtful. Or, in case some other accident happens on the set, toilet paper or kitchen paper can quickly clean it up.
Garbage bags – in addition to their obvious purpose, these can help shield those who have no umbrellas from getting wet.
Gaffer tape and camera tape – head to your hardware store and stock up on both. They are great for marking, labeling and holding EVERYTHING AND EVERYONE together.
Extension cords – some buildings and locations are just not planned the way you thought at first. Be prepared so your equipment can work.
Lens cloth and brush – your camera is key. Keep it clean at all times.
Mobile phones and extra batteries – while they should naturally be off while shooting, you can never have enough phones and extra batteries. If an emergency calls for problem solving long-distance style, mobile phones with extra batteries just in case, will save the day.
Car or other transportation – if you do not own a car, rent one or make sure any borrowing arrangement is set in stone so you’re not left hanging.

Have fun!