We understand most of your video budgets are tied to technical equipment, hiring professional actors, and platform advertising. However, there are certain crucial things that can make your filming run much more smoothly that won’t break the bank. These items seem obvious at face value but you’d be surprised how often they’re forgotten. Here are 10 rather inexpensive essentials when you’re tackling a diy office video production:
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Power Strips, Extension Cords, and Converters (Oh My!)[/bra_highlight]
Strips, extension cords, and converters can be lifesavers in your office set when you need access to additional outlets. You’ll be charging and recharging items (e.g. camera batteries, smart phones, tablets) throughout your shoot. Remember to prevent clutter by creating clear pathways for people to maneuver.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Batteries[/bra_highlight]
Always have some extra on hand. I’m mainly talking about backup batteries for your camera but other types (AA, AAA, 9 volt, etc.) may come in handy when you least expect it.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Light Bulbs[/bra_highlight]
Spare bulbs are necessary if you’re running lighting kits. They could expire or break because of accident. In fact, a light stand was knocked over during one of our recent shoots, the bulb shattering into a thousand tiny pieces. We were glad to have a spare ready without a huge delay. Another tip: keep your bulbs consistent with the lighting in your office. If you have fluorescent overhead lights, stick with fluorescents when you film. Different types of lighting (i.e. LED, fluorescent, incandescent) can contrast awkwardly when you mix them together in the same scene.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]White Board[/bra_highlight]
A portable white board allows you to scribble down notes and talking points. In other words, these boards can serve as cue cards or prompts for you to stay on track. White boards can be a great organizational tool for briefing your team on what needs to be accomplished. In addition, white boards can serve as elementary reflectors or “bounces” for your lighting. Here, you can shine a light on a white board and reflect it to fill in your scene.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Tape[/bra_highlight]
Tape is heaven-sent for filming in the office. You can address the loose wires/cables (e.g. lighting equipment, audio equipment) on your floor by taping them down. What’s the real benefit of this? Nobody trips! Things don’t get knocked over and nobody gets hurt. Tape can also be used to set “marks” which position on-camera talent.For example, you can put a piece of tape on the floor where you want someone to stand in relation to your composition.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Post It Notes[/bra_highlight]
Like tape, Post It notes can be marks for on-air talent. Their bright colors work well in capturing attention. Just make sure they’re out of the camera’s view!
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Water[/bra_highlight]
When I say water, I mean any hydrating fluids (e.g. Gatorade, Coconut Water). Staying hydrated keeps your cast and crew on point. Water really benefits your on-camera assets as they might require several takes to complete a scene. Prevent dry mouth by having water in a nearby room that isn’t your primary filming location. For speakers, consider drinking hot tea (honey lemon, herbal, green) to preserve your voice while shooting.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Lip Balm & Skin Moisturizer[/bra_highlight]
If you aren’t utilizing professional makeup services, I recommend using lip balm and carrying some type of skin moisturizer for complexion. Your HD camera can detect all sorts of little nuances. Apply some lip balm and a tiny bit of moisturizer if you know you’re shooting in a very dry environment. It’s also helpful to pause and “touch up” if you know production is slated to take a while.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Mirrors[/bra_highlight]
Keep a mirror (or two) near your talent so self-adjustments can be made. Mirrors can also benefit talent in between takes as some people prefer visualizing themselves rehearsing right before they record.
[bra_highlight style=’highlight1′]Blankets & Rugs[/bra_highlight]
Blankets and rugs can be used to absorb sound. While they are not perfect solutions, you may be able to reduce noise and echoing by putting a few blankets on the walls and a throw rug on the floor.
