Discover the essential tools your camera assistant floor bag needs, from T‑bars and Allen keys to cleaning kits, tape, lights, and smart rigging accessories for efficient, professional set work.
T‑bar & Allen key set
A solid T‑bar is vital for rigging quick‑release extensions or stabilising the camera. FilmSticks make a reliable range, and pairing that with a metric Allen key set—like Bondhus, which you can pick up for around £27 is a smart investment.
Hex keys, precision screwdrivers & a multitool
Small rigs and accessories often require Allen wrenches; good quality precision screwdrivers (Phillips, flat, Torx) are indispensable for monitor plates or battery compartments. Many AC kits include a Leatherman or Knipex multitool for flexibility.
Quick‑release / Cinelocks & Magic arms
While not strictly essential, quick‑release systems like Cinelocks or Wooden Camera adapters give immense speed and flexibility. Magic arms or ball‑joint arms let you mount monitors, lights or accessories anywhere on the rig with ease.
Kondor Blue offer some great Cinelocks that won’t break the bank.
Dual‑Lock (3M) and Velcro
3M Dual‑Lock strips are preferred for reliably attaching small accessories or organising pouches. Regular Velcro also stays a set staple for lighter or flexible attachments.
Cleaning supplies
With Rosco lens cleaning fluid, Kimtech/rosco tissues, microfiber cloths, and a canned air or Giottos rocket blower, you’re ready for sensor, monitor or lens cleaning on the go—especially useful in dusty or shared-access environments.
Slate/Clapper board light
A small reading or LED clip‑on light ensures the slate is legible in low‑light situations—especially helpful for the editor and continuity. Even a clip‑on wand light works well here.
Tape & marking tools
Essential rolls: gaffer tape in colour-coding for camera/actor marking, dual‑lock or micro‑gaffer for cables or temporary labels, cloth tape for loose cable bundling. Include chalk sticks or sausage marks for outdoor marking and a tape roll for actor or camera position marks. We’re a fan of the rubber T-Marks from Filmsticks.
Writing materials & notebook
Permanent sharpies, whiteboard markers, pens and pencils: you’ll use them for slates, log sheets, camera reports or quick labels. A small “police‑style” reporter notebook is practical for site notes or camera logs.
Measuring tools
Either a cloth tape measure or a laser disto is helpful for pulling focus by distance or measuring actor marks. Popular setups include a Leica Disto or a durable cloth/fat‑max tape.
Protective cover / rain gear
Camouflage-style camera covers or a large umbrella are smart additions for wet weather to keep your body or accessories dry and protected—good on location and unpredictable British weather.
Kit Structure & Organisation
- Floor bag choices: A compact AC floor bag is ideal for portability. Many UK ACs use ARRI medium bags or Panavision AC bags—but others favour sturdy hard cases like Peli 1535 with TrekPak dividers if durability and weather protection are a priority.
- Ditty pouch or belt: A smaller tool belt or pouch for the most-used items (markers, screwdrivers, gaffer tape) improves efficiency for run shots or handheld setups.
