What Kind of Walkie Talkie is Used on Film Sets?
The use of two-way radios, or walkie talkies, on film sets is certainly important. In fact, newbies to the set often struggle to gain understanding of the proper walkie talkie lingo and terminology when working the set. And, whether you’re entirely new to a career in filmmaking, or you’re attempting to establish a film crew. You’re probably wondering what kind of walkie talkie is used on film sets, and why?
Generally, film sets use commercial grade walkie talkies or two-way radios. Which have a long lasting battery life. And which are durable and won’t require too much maintenance.
While there isn’t a set style or type of walkie talkie for use on film sets all the time. There are some features which are incredibly important. Which most set directors will look for in advance. Before making the decision to purchase a line of two-way radio communication for the crew.
Impact Resistance
Durability is one of the most important features of any walkie talkie that is used on film sets. These little gadgets are likely to be dropped, stepped on, otherwise impacted in various manners.
They must be tough, durable, and impact resistant. It’s also important that any accessories, such as headsets or other elements are equally durable for the units.
Weather Resistance
Filmmaking takes place rain or shine, hot or cold, inside and outside. Weather resistance is an important feature when we’re talking about what kind of walkie talkie is used on film sets. They must be able to get wet, cold, hot or otherwise work within the elements.
Filmmakers really never know what kind of elements they’ll face as a direct result of Mother Nature on the set. As well as those that are created for special effects and the walkies must hold up.
Versatility & Accessories
In looking at what kind of walkie talkie is used on film sets, versatility is also important. They must have the ability for the radio communication to be silenced on vibrate rather than beep. Most filmmakers admit that durable, versatile accessories are important.
With the right accessories, the walkie-talkie can be buried under a belt, and under your clothing. But if you’ve got a microphone or headset that functions well with the walkie talkie. You can still communicate effectively and efficiently.
Cost-Effective
Every dollar counts when producing a film. Thus, the best kind of walkie talkie for a film set is one that is cost-effective. It won’t be cheap, but it also won’t be incredibly expensive. It will provide good value for the money.
It’s probably a mid to upper-grade two-way communication device at a mid- to lower-grade cost, ideally. The majority of walkie talkies that are used on film sets in the U.S. are Motorola brand. They hold up, they provide business-grade coverage, and they are dependent.
Long Battery Life
Filmmakers will generally seek a walkie talkie that has a long lasting battery life. It’s important for these walkie talkies to be able to be charged and recharged on a regular basis. They must work all day!
Nobody wants to be working a set and having their walkie run out of battery at a crucial time during a shoot. It’s just not convenient or effective. Thus, filmmakers typically seek a walkie talkie with a long life. One that will function for at least 12 hours a day on a full charge.
So what kind of walkie talkie is used on film sets? Generally a Motorola is the most frequent choice for filmmakers, although there are many different options available. What’s most important is quality, durability, and effectiveness.