The Essential Film Equipment Checklist for Every Production
Whether you're planning a TVC shoot, corporate video, or social media content, having the right equipment is crucial. This comprehensive checklist covers every category of film gear you'll need — from cameras to grip equipment. Use it to plan your production and ensure nothing gets left behind.
Most of the equipment listed below is available for rent from CINEFY's equipment rental catalog in Da Nang.
Camera Department
Camera Bodies
- ☐ Cinema camera (Sony FX3, RED Komodo X, or Blackmagic Pyxis 6K)
- ☐ B-camera / backup body
- ☐ Drone camera (DJI Mavic 3 Pro or Inspire 3)
- ☐ Action camera for BTS (GoPro Hero)
Lenses
- ☐ Wide angle (16-35mm or equivalent)
- ☐ Standard zoom (24-70mm)
- ☐ Telephoto (70-200mm)
- ☐ Fast prime for interviews (50mm f/1.4 or 85mm f/1.4)
- ☐ Macro lens (if product shots needed)
Camera Support
- ☐ Tripod with fluid head
- ☐ Gimbal stabilizer (DJI RS3 Pro or RS4)
- ☐ Slider or dolly
- ☐ Monopod (for run-and-gun)
- ☐ Shoulder rig (for handheld cinema)
Camera Accessories
- ☐ Memory cards (minimum 3x capacity needed)
- ☐ Extra batteries (minimum 4 per camera)
- ☐ ND filters (variable or fixed set)
- ☐ External monitor (5" or 7")
- ☐ Follow focus system
- ☐ Matte box
Lighting Department
- ☐ Key light (Aputure 600D, Amaran 200X, or similar LED)
- ☐ Fill light (softer/smaller LED panel)
- ☐ Backlight / hair light
- ☐ LED panel for interviews (Aputure MC, Falcon Eyes)
- ☐ Softboxes (at least 2 sizes)
- ☐ Reflector / bounce board (5-in-1)
- ☐ C-stands with arms (minimum 3)
- ☐ Light stands (minimum 4)
- ☐ Sandbags for stability
- ☐ Color gels (CTO, CTB, diffusion)
- ☐ Black flags / negative fill
Not sure which lighting setup to use? Read our guide on 5 lighting setups every creator should know.
Audio Department
- ☐ Shotgun microphone (Rode NTG or Sennheiser MKH416)
- ☐ Boom pole with shock mount
- ☐ Wireless lavalier system (2-channel minimum)
- ☐ Audio recorder (Zoom F8N Pro or Sound Devices 833)
- ☐ Headphones for monitoring
- ☐ Wind protection (deadcat / blimp)
- ☐ XLR cables (spare set)
- ☐ Backup batteries (AA/lithium)
For detailed audio tips, check our guide: Audio Recording for Film Production.
Grip & Electrical
- ☐ Extension cables (25m minimum, outdoor-rated)
- ☐ Power strips / multi-plugs
- ☐ Gaffer tape (multiple rolls)
- ☐ Clamps (A-clamps, Mafer clamps)
- ☐ Apple boxes (set of 4)
- ☐ Black/white cloth for backgrounds
- ☐ Rain covers for outdoor shoots
Production Essentials
- ☐ Slate / clapperboard
- ☐ Director's monitor
- ☐ Walkie-talkies (for large crews)
- ☐ Laptop for data backup
- ☐ External SSD drives (2x minimum for backup)
- ☐ Card reader (high-speed USB-C)
- ☐ Toolkit (screwdrivers, Allen keys, pliers)
- ☐ First aid kit
Equipment Budget Guide
| Production Type | Equipment Budget (VND/day) | Key Items |
|---|---|---|
| Social Media Content | Contact for quote | Camera, gimbal, LED panel, lav mic |
| Corporate Interview | Contact for quote | 2 cameras, 3-point lighting, audio kit |
| TVC / Commercial | Contact for quote | Cinema camera, full lighting, grip, audio |
| Short Film | Contact for quote | Cinema camera, lenses, lighting, dolly |
Frequently Asked Questions
What equipment do I need for a basic video shoot?
For a basic professional video shoot, you need: a cinema or mirrorless camera, one versatile zoom lens (24-70mm), a tripod, one LED light with softbox, a lavalier microphone, and memory cards. This full setup is available to rent from CINEFY as a ready-to-shoot bundle — contact us for a quote.
Should I buy or rent film equipment?
For most productions, renting is more cost-effective. A cinema camera that costs 80,000,000+ VND to purchase can be rented for a small fraction of that per day. Renting also gives you access to the latest gear without maintenance costs. CINEFY offers 120+ rental items with daily and weekly rates.
What camera is best for beginners in video production?
The Sony A7 IV or A7S III are excellent starter cameras with great video capabilities. For cinema-quality results, the Sony FX30 offers professional features at a lower price point. All are available for rent to test before buying.
Does CINEFY include equipment with studio rental?
Basic studio equipment (lighting grid, cyclorama, power) is included with CINEFY studio rental. Cameras, lenses, audio gear, and specialized lighting are available as add-ons from our equipment rental catalog.
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Rent Professional Film Equipment
CINEFY offers a full range of cameras, lenses, lighting, audio, and grip equipment for rent in Da Nang.
