First out of state shoot
 

Hey gang,

Well, I may have just lined up my first out of state shoot. Planning on shooting in Austin, Texas.

So my question is, what gear do you take with you, and what gear do you rent on location?

Will be shooting interviews and broll, 2 cameras, me and one other person traveling.

I'm thinking about taking everything except lights (cameras, sticks, audio, misc.) with me and then renting the lights in Austin. Sound good? How do you handle the gear situation when you travel?

Re: First out of state shoot
 

In Austin, you've got plenty of resources. You can rent whatever you need from Omega Broadcast, GEAR and Texas Media Systems. I'd rent your lights and sticks to make travel easier.

Re: First out of state shoot
 

In addition to what Stephen said, to your question about handling the gear, there are many threads here on that topic so no need to go into the details. Basically, you carry on your cameras and use Pelican, SKB or <insert your favorite hard case> with TSA locks for the rest. Also, make sure you're up to speed on the restrictions for the type of batteries you use. Certain types cannot go in checked bags.

If you've never been to Austin, be prepared for allergies and take chapstick. The need for both usually hits me after 48 hours there. YMMV.

Re: First out of state shoot
 

Thanks for the advice. I hadn't thought of renting sticks, but that's not a bad idea, as they're not the easiest to travel with.

I've found a few rental facilities via the Austin Film Commission, any thoughts on the best place to get a basic (3-4 light) tungsten kit?

Re: First out of state shoot
 

I always rent from GEAR, located off MLK drive downtown I believe. They're great, never had any problems with them. I think they've got some standard light kits for rent for like $50.

For standard interviews and b-roll, it doesn't sound like you're gonna need much, other than the standard camera, tripod, mics, and lighting. You could travel easily with most, but probably want to rent the lighting on location.

Re: First out of state shoot
 

I've travelled from coast to coast to coast to shoot -- and I've always brought my own gear. Two people can manage a lot of gear. Back in the day (say mid-nineties) it might have taken four people to wrangle enough gear to sustain a shoot, but today's equipment is smaller, lighter and frankly better packed ... but as a guy that has made his career from roadwork, I wouldn't rent on location if I could do otherwise.

I have nothing against rental houses, and use them often. But I always rent at home and carry their gear with me on my travels. If you're travelling anyway, tossing in a couple of bills for oversize baggage or whatever the airline wants to call it seems a small price to pay.

Cheers,
GB