What Should You Bring to a Film Set?
Almost everyone in film encounters the same frustrating problem:
How do you get film experience when every film job seems to require film experience?
One of the most common entry points into professional production is working as a production assistant, commonly called a PA.
A PA job isn't glamorous. But if you can get through it and still love it, you'll be fine in anything that you try on set.
It can involve long hours, early mornings, lockups, paperwork, moving things, distributing information, helping departments, and performing countless other tasks necessary to keep a production moving.
But it's also one of the best places to start learning how professional film sets actually work.
So how do you get your first PA job if you've never worked on a professional set?
So, what should should you bring to set?
Table of Content
Comfortable Shoes
This deserves the number-one spot.
Film production days are long.
You may spend 10, 12, or more hours standing, walking between locations, moving equipment, or running around set.
Wear closed-toe, supportive shoes you can comfortably work in all day.
Appropriate Clothing
Check the weather.
Check the location.
Dress in layers when appropriate. People forget this one ALL THE TIME (myself included). The worst is being too hot or too cold while you're working a 12 hour day.
When I'm working on set a lot, sometimes I just leave a set box in the back of my car that has misc layers, hats, etc.
Neutral or dark clothing is often useful on set, particularly when crew members need to work near camera.
Most importantly, dress to WORK.
Water Bottle
Productions should provide drinking water, but carrying a reusable bottle makes staying hydrated much easier.
Must Have Products For Parents and Beginners
Small Notebook
Your phone isn't always the best place to take notes.
Carry a small notebook for instructions, shot information, names, reminders, and anything else you need to remember.
Further Readings
→
The Ultimate Gift Guide for Film Students (What They Actually Need)
→
Film School Alternative: Learn Filmmaking Without Debt
“I think the most important thing is to be true to yourself and take care of yourself, because that’s the only way you can truly take care of other people.”
Pens and Sharpies
Bring more than one.
You'll understand why soon enough.
Believe it or not, this is a portable charger.
The difference is that it attaches to your walkie battery so that you don't have to be tethered to a power source or wall charger. It's highly useful when you're on the move or don't have access to power.
Portable Phone Charger
Production days can be long, and your phone may be essential for maps, calls, production emails, schedules, and communication.
Don't let your battery reach 2% halfway through the day.
Sunscreen
If you're shooting outside, protect yourself.
The same goes for sunglasses, hats, rain gear, warm layers, or anything else appropriate for the location.
Snacks
Meals may be provided, but having an emergency snack in your bag is always useful.
Choose something that travels well and won't create a mess.
Work Gloves
If your job involves moving equipment, basic work gloves may be helpful.
Ask experienced members of your department about specialized gear before spending significant money.
Identification and Required Paperwork
Bring any identification or employment documentation production has requested.
Complete paperwork promptly.
The Best Free Ways to Learn Filmmaking
Below are some free resources to check out:
Film analysis
Watching behind-the-scenes content
Reading scripts
Making short films with friends
Volunteering on indie sets
A Positive Attitude
Yes, we're putting this on the packing list.
Production can be stressful.
Things go wrong.
Schedules change.
Weather refuses to cooperate.
People get tired.
Being the person who remains helpful and professional during a difficult day is valuable.
Curiosity
Your first film set is an incredible classroom.
Observe.
Ask appropriate questions at appropriate times.
Learn what each department does.
Pay attention to the terminology people use.
You don't have to know everything on Day One.
You should want to know more by Day Two.
The Thing You Can't Pack: Set Experience
There's one problem with every film set packing list.
You can prepare your bag perfectly and still arrive completely unprepared for how a professional production actually works.
What's a lockup?
What does "back to one" mean?
Who's first team?
What happens when someone says "last looks"?
Why is the AD asking for a 20?
When are you supposed to talk on the walkie?
These are the practical pieces of filmmaking that become second nature after you've spent enough time on set—but they're incredibly confusing when you're starting out.
Get Reelisms: A Practical Guide to Working in Film and Television was created to make that transition easier.
Think of it as something else to put in your filmmaking bag: practical knowledge about set terminology, etiquette, departments, communication, and the realities of professional production.
Your first day will still be overwhelming.
But it doesn't have to feel completely foreign.
Grab your copy of Get Reelisms before your next production and walk onto set a little more prepared.
Summer Film Bundles for Beginners
“At the end of the day, it’s not about what you have or even what you’ve accomplished. It’s about who you’ve lifted up, who you’ve made better. It’s about what you’ve given back.”
“Looking to build a sustainable creative career in film and TV? Explore our filmmaking resources at Get Reelisms.”
“Check out the Get Reelisms Podcast for honest conversations about filmmaking, burnout, creativity, and balancing life in the industry.”
“Whether you’re a parent, mentor, or aspiring filmmaker, remember: storytelling and caregiving both shape the future.”
Common Mistakes Beginner Filmmakers Make
Below are some free resources to check out:
Waiting for expensive gear
Trying to make a feature first
Overcomplicating projects
Fear of failure
Comparing yourself to professionals
“Just do it. Get a camera, shoot something, no matter how small, no matter how cheesy, no matter whether your friends and your sister star in it. Put your name on it as director. Now you’re a director.”
Conclusion
Don't wait. Just start.
Nothing will be perfect.
That's okay. You learn by doing and improve as you go along.
Filmmaking is a marathon. Not a sprint.
If you want to buy books for beginners, you can check out more on our store or some virtual DIY filmmaking self-starter classes to guide you towrads make your next short film.
Christine Chen
Christine W Chen is a narrative director and writer whose filmmaking journey began in 1993 with an early-edition VHS camcorder. She holds a B.A. from Rice University and an MBA from the University of Texas at Austin’s McCombs School of Business.
Her films have screened at festivals including HollyShorts, the New Orleans Film Festival, and Fantasia. Her most recent feature, Erzulie, premiered theatrically in May 2022 and is now available on VOD.
Christine is also a DGA 1st Assistant Director and a recent Shorts Branch member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She co-authored Get Reelisms, a practical guide to filmmaking, and co-hosts the Get Reelisms Podcast, a platform dedicated to building community in the film and television industry through education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you become a filmmaker without film school?
Yes. Many successful filmmakers are self-taught and learned through online education, independent projects, and hands-on experience.
What is the best way to learn filmmaking online?
The best way is through a combination of online courses, practical projects, filmmaking communities, and consistent content creation.
Do filmmakers need expensive equipment?
No. Many filmmakers begin with smartphones, affordable cameras, and free editing software.
How do beginner filmmakers get experience?
By creating short films, volunteering on sets, collaborating with friends, and consistently practicing storytelling.
Is film school worth it?
Film school can be valuable for networking and structured learning, but it is not required to build a successful filmmaking career.
