Camera Assistant Prep: Equipment Case Labeling

When dialing in prep, 1st AC Derek Edwards is always certain that he is set-ready so he is as efficient as possible in production. A surefire way to ensure efficiency is by labeling your lens cases.

You’re going to learn:

Why you should always label your lenses and equipment cases
The order of operations to correctly label your lenses and equipment case
Pro tips to consider that will improve your labeling

ALWAYS LABEL YOUR LENSES:

During the prep, Derek will go through and place a tag on each case so he knows each lens by looking at them. That way, his 2nd AC isn’t picking up random lenses trying to find the correct one. Instead, when his 2nd AC goes to grab a lens, it’s labeled making it quick and efficient.

For example, the top of the lens reads 100mm. Derek also likes to place his lens stops on there as well as add his close focus and T-stop.

So when the DP says, “We need to do a tight shot — I need 100mm. What’s the minimum focus?” Now, the AC doesn’t have to pick up the lens and check it. It’s already written on the top of the lens.

Derek even goes a step further and also writes these details on the top of the case.

PRO TIP: Never leave a case unlocked and open. A case should be closed with the latches, at a minimum of one latch. It just takes one mishap of grabbing the handle and then you have an expensive mess. Always lock up and save yourself the hassle.

STEP 1: CHOOSE VIBRANT TAPE COLORS

First off, Derek starts at the top with two-inch red tape, because red pops and stands out.

While placing the tape, you want to be as neat as possible. Derek also notes that you should have fun with it as long as it’s legible. Consider it arts and crafts time!

Derek has two sets of lenses. This means he will place a tag on the top for one row and another tag at the bottom for a second row.

Again, Derek takes his time without rushing to be nice and neat.

STEP 2: P-TOUCH FOR LABELING

While you can use a Sharpie for clean and precise labeling, Derek prefers to kick things up a notch! To make his labels extra special, Derek chooses the P-Touch.

For only about $25, a P-Touch is one of those tools that will save you by making your labels much cleaner on set, and you will use it for everything from the slates to the gear. Your crew will appreciate you.

STEP 3: ADD WHITE GAFFER’S TAPE

Next, Derek takes the white gaffer’s tape and makes a strip in the center of each red slice of tape.

Derek smooths it over the edges but will fix that in a later step. So, it will be nice and beautiful when it’s done.

PRO TIP: Whether you’re an AC or work at a rental house, helping with labels is a good way to learn. Derek loves hiring people at the rental house who help because it shows they know how to hustle.