7 Surprising Items You Need on a Commercial Set

When working on a commercial shoot, you may be surprised to find that many of the most useful tools are ones that you have used before. You might even already own them. Bring along these seven items and your next shoot will be sure to go smoothly.

1. Tape

You may be surprised to learn that tape is one of the most important tools on a film set.

Paper tape: Also known as marking tape, paper tape is used to mark the location of where an actor should be on set and to place focus marks for your camera. It is lightweight and will peel away without leaving any adhesive behind.

Gaffers tape: This tape is made from cloth and designed specifically to be used on production sets. It won’t leave residue and can withstand tremendous heat. It can also be easily torn lengthwise and will not reflect light due to its matte finish. It’s often used to keep wires organized and fastened to the floor.

2. A multi-tool

A good multi-tool for a film set should include a knife, wrench, screwdriver, and scissors. You never know when you might need one of these for quick camera and tripod repairs or cutting light gels.

3. Sharpies and dry erase markers

Sharpies are a must-have on any film set. You may need to write on the clapperboard, mark actors or subjects’ spots on the floor, or make marks on a follow focus wheel so you can remember how far to pull back. And if you need to erase a Sharpie mark, simply trace over it with a dry erase marker.

4. A maglite

Maglites use LEDs, which don’t get hot and won’t break easily if you drop them. They have a focused directional beam so you can light up the specific area you need to see without disturbing others around you.

5. A multi-bit head screwdriver

Sometimes a multi-tool just won’t get the job done, and you need a larger screwdriver for camera or tripod repairs. Get a screwdriver with interchangeable heads, so that you don’t have to carry around several different ones.

6. A rubber bulb air blower and lens cleaning fluid

If you’re using a camera, you should have an air blower and lens cleaning fluid on hand. A bulb air blower works by squeezing the base and shooting out small bursts of air to clean dust and dirt from a lens. It is gentle enough to not damage the glass.

7. Clothespins

On film sets, clothespins are usually called C-47’s. They are used for holding any number of items in place, such as gels, wires, or scripts.

What other unconventional items do you use when filming? Tell us in the comments below!

By Josh Futtersak, Storyhunter Writer