Supplies for the Film Industry

Don't scrimp on supplies for film industry success

By Mike Tracy
One thing your film production business probably already knows about the industry is that you need a seemingly endless stream of supplies to be successful. Not only do you need quantities of motion-picture quality film, you need equipment to film and record sound, video and sound editing devices, lighting apparatus and makeup. And that's just a start. The list of needed supplies goes on and on.

It's cost-effective for film businesses to order film supplies in bulk. To do so, you'll have to accurately estimate how much film you'll need for the entire project and locate the types of cameras that will give you the best quality with the most flexibility. Most likely you'll need more than one type to film longer pieces. The same holds true for recording equipment. As you prepare to order film industry supplies, keep the following things in mind:

1. Some film will be unusable and some will be lost in editing.

2. Your biggest decision with the audio and video supplies: Should I buy or rent?

3. Most film companies use a variety of video and sound recording devices.

 

Make sure your film business has the best film it can afford

Motion picture film comes in an array of sizes and speeds. Each has characteristics that make it preferred for certain filming scenarios. Invest in the right size and best quality your company's budget allows. It will make a difference in the quality of the finished product.
Try: Kodak is a key source for film for film production companies. Check its inventory for the size and speed your film industry business wants. If Kodak doesn't carry it, Fujifilm probably does. It is another leading supplier to the global film industry.

Use the right cameras to make your film industry hit

Like other movie business supplies, there is an array of camera styles. They vary in film speed, price and other characteristics. Check film business information for the models recommended for your intended shoot.
Try: Check with Transylvania Film & TV for video equipment. It stocks a variety of different models for different filming situations and budgets. Filming an action sequence or one with lots of motion? Consider Tango Head for cameras mounted to pivot to follow the action.

Record sound with instruments made for the movie industry

Different scenes might call for different recording devices. You might use boom mikes, lavaliere mikes or even wireless ones, depending on the scene. Your film production business can buy or rent individual units or a package. Don't forget the wires, mixers, connections and multitude of other electronic gadgets you'll need for clear sound recording.
Try: Trust Trew Audio for your location sound recording. It has an impressive online catalog for professional audio technicians. Find lavaliere, wireless and boom microphones at Wintech Video. It also provides sound mixers and packages.

 

  • If your company is just starting out in the movie industry, cost will be a factor. Seek professional advice on estimating the amount of supplies you'll need. Order in bulk or in packages whenever possible.
  • For other potential savings on supplies for the film industry, especially for student films and similar productions, work with film industry businesses for costumes and makeup.


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