When I'm preparing to shoot a 'how to' video, part of the process involves making sure I have all the equipment I need to shoot each video, before I start.

I know from experience how a single missing cable or a dead battery can ruin a day of shooting.

To reduce the chances of a interrupted shoot, I've prepared a video equipment checklist. Check it out below.

Video Production Equipment Checklist Here's my list of basic equipment needed to shoot a 'How-To' DVD.

Camcorder - miniDV format with microphone input.

Blank MiniDV tapes - Panasonic, Maxell or Sony. Always have 3 blank tapes ready.

Extra Camcorder batteries - always have 3 extras.

Neutral Density Filter for camcorder lens - reduces light reflections from glasses.

Second Camcorder - (optional) to record from computer screens and to use to rewind tapes, and to shoot in places where you don't want to risk main camcorder.

Wired Lavalier Microphone - If budget allows, get a second lavalier as a backup.

Extra batteries for Lavalier microphone - you'll need them at the worst moment. Having spares can save the shoot.

Lavalier microphone extension cable - at least 20 feet.

Camera connection adaptors for lavalier microphone - either mono to stereo or stereo to mono, depending on camcorder and microphone.

Camera Tripod - sturdy enough to securely hold camcorder. Don't get a lightweight tripod.

Video Lights - get 2, three head, floor lamps with a total of 6, 150 watt daylight florescent screen in bulbs, and two overhead 'hair' lights with 30 watt daylight florescent bulbs.

Extra Light bulbs - Have a replacement bulb for each wattage of lights used. Don't let a blown light ruin a day of shooting.

Headphones - if camcorder has headphone jack, using headphones can help check audio levels while recording.

Preview Monitor - use a 14" TV monitor to view output from camcorder while recording. Will help you catch problems, adjust the set, and insure that things look good.

Cables to connect preview monitor to camcorder - standard audio/video component cables.

Power extension cords, surge protectors - when shooting video, you will always need extension cords for the lights and camcorder, and will want to use a surge protector on the camcorder.

4 pin to 6 pin firewire cables - used to connect camcorder to computer. Get a 5', a 10', and a 20' cable.

Gaffer's or Painter's tape - use to tape all wires and cables to the carpet or floor.

Small erasable white board - use to write presenters outline notes before each scene. Place immediately below camera so presenter can refer to during presentation.

Duffle bags, pelican cases - use to store camera, tripod and accessories between shoots.