Cinematography/Videography Gear Questions (For a beginner!)
Hey everyone! I’m starting to get much more serious about cinematography/videography and wanted to sanity check a gear setup before I pull the trigger. I’m still pretty beginner/intermediate in this space, so would love feedback from people with more experience.
I shoot on a Sony A7 IV and currently use a 24-105mm lens. Most of what I’ll be shooting is interviews, documentary/veritae content, cinematic b-roll, and sports content for personal projects. I'm trying to build a solid portable solo-shooter kit that prioritizes good interview lighting, mobility, and room to grow.
In my current cart is the following!
NEEWER CB60B bi-color COB light + parabolic softbox/grid
SmallRig 9.2ft air-cushioned light stand
SmallRig VB99 mini V-mount battery (99Wh)
SmallRig V-mount plate/clamp for the light stand
SmallRig compact V-mount setup for my A7 IV rig
SmallRig D-Tap dummy battery cable for Sony
NEEWER 72” fluid head tripod
Reflector + reflector clamp setup
Sandbags
Here are my main questions:
- Does this sound like a smart starter/intermediate documentary/interview kit?
- Am I missing anything obvious?
- Would you prioritize anything differently?
- Any concerns with the NEEWER tripod/light vs spending more elsewhere?
- Would you add a second light/tube light now, or wait?
Any gear gurus, experts, or those who might put themselves back in my shoes when first starting out... your advice would be much appreciated!!! Cheers!