The title is probably a little bit misleading, there is nothing really technical about any of this, it's all about getting started and trying to gain a foothold, learn some things and learn from the mistakes. The first and ultimately most important piece of equipment is the phone itself. Most of the smartphone filmmaking channels and sites seem to be iPhone driven and not without merit. Apple are very much the go-to for creatives in general when it comes to hardware. I have a OnePlus 8. I am a big fan of the brand and the camera is a good one, so I think it's a nice little platform to begin my filmmaking expedition on.
The next piece of equipment I am using is the Zhiyun Smooth 5 gimbal. A lot of research went into this, as well as a little bit of luck because I had made my decision based on a head-to-head of two other gimbals, and this one was due to come out a few weeks after my decision. I did my due diligence on it, and it not only fulfilled the previous criteria, but it also ticked a couple of extra boxes as well. The Smooth 5 is precise, it has a solid, weighted, pro feel to it, and has several features at my fingertips through the app, which can be controlled through the joystick and the function buttons to minimise coming into contact with the phone itself.
The third and final piece of equipment is the Tarion A222 monopod. This is an investment piece for certain because it will help create effects with help from the gimbal, as well as providing stability for long, steady shots. It can also be used as a light stand, so BONUS!
You'll notice that I haven't mentioned any sound equipment, and that's because I don't have any yet. Eeeeek. This is just one of the realities of working on a micro/no budget production. I hope I will be able to get something sorted, but if not, it will be put down to experience and I'll just use the onboard mic that the phone has, but I do know from experience, sound can make or break a production.
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