So, what do you need to run your own video business? Like any business you need the tools of the trade. Here’s my start-up list:
Tools of the trade
- Mid-range video camera and good quality tripod. You may already own a camera, but it needs to be able to shoot the sort of projects you hope to attract. (More on this later)
- Audio equipment. Mine consisted of a good quality camera mounted shotgun mic and a lavalier radio microphone system. This got me by for many years.
- Lighting equipment. A three head, LED portable lighting kit with daylight/tungsten options. (Gels or via colour temperature controller)
- Post-production equipment. These days that can consist of a laptop computer with a mid-range processor. (Before the advent of digital technology, most post-production was done in a specifically built ‘post-suite’ with a room full of equipment costing upwards of $100,000.)
Buy the basics – rent the rest
Once you have the basics, it’s often easier and cheaper to rent any additional equipment. This includes additional cameras, microphones and lights. etc. You can also hire additional crew if needed. Avoid the temptation to buy a stack of equipment to cover every possible shoot you might be asked to do.
How much?
A budget of around $12,000 is a good starting point. This will get you a decent 4K/HD camera and tripod, sound gear and lights. Don’t forget to take out equipment insurance. I’ve never had to use mine, but it’s worth having. (Click here for a suggested list of equipment)
You will also need indemnity and public liability insurance. Many locations won’t allow you on site without it. Again it’s very cost effective.
You will need an accountant
Setting up a business costs money, not just for your tools of trade, but also for creating a business entity. Rules and regulations and tax status will vary from place to place, so it’s worth while getting this set up BEFORE you actually start trading. Ask friends and other local businesses for recommendations.
Invoicing
Work out how you will invoice your clients and make sure it is set out to comply with local laws and regulations. There are many invoicing programs available, but a simple spreadsheet can be just as good.
Once you’ve got your gear and the legals set up, then you can start to market your video production services.
Next week: Marketing
Ooo, interesting!
I make small-budget online productions right now, and I use a DIY lighting setup that’s made of clamp lights and my cameras are my Galaxy S9 and an old iPhone 5S – a far cry from a $12,000 setup, but it works for what I need it for right now! I’m very interested in that list of recommended equipment – I’ll be checking that out!
Thanks. Hopefully as your business grows, you’ll be able to add more gear. What I am always amazed at, is how cheap (or cost effective) it is to get into video making. Hang in there.
So I have a question! If you were giving advice to someone on a strict budget, what would you say is the most important equipment to splurge on? Like, say I have only the money to get one top of the line piece of equipment and everything else needed to be budget, what would that need to be?
Camera and lenses – always. Start with the best you can afford and then as you grow – update. It took me eight years before I upgraded from my first camera, so start with the best.
Martin
You know, I had not even thought about renting equipment. I don’t even know where to begin looking for that, but it’s an interesting option. I have been wanting to do this for ages, but the budget issues have been kneecapping my efforts. Renting seems like a nice middle ground.
Carter,
There should be a number of rental companies where you live. Good thing is you can also rent before you buy, checking out a number of different cameras and other gear.
Martin
Don’t you love how easy it is to do post-production these days? I’ve managed to find some top-of-the-line software for a great deal, that works on a PC that was built for $500 – no 100K post production suites for me! Thank you modern technology.
Thank you indeed!