The Black and Blue

Filmmaking Tips for Camera Assistants

  • Blog
  • Videos
  • Menu
  • 
  • Blog
  • Videos
  • Free Ebook
  • Subscribe
  • Topics
    • Behind the Lens
    • Camera Assisting
    • Cameras
    • Getting Work
    • Industry News
    • Miscellaneous Tips
    • Production Stories
    • Toolkit
    • Website
  • About The Black and Blue
  • Contact Us
  • Sponsorship
  • Comment Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Disclosure
  • 
  • R
  • 
  • ˆ
  • ‰
Help Design a New Portabrace AC Pouch

Help Design a New Portabrace AC Pouch

Now you have a chance to speak up for the design of your own pouch! On Cinematography.com, Matt Garland of Product Development at Portabrace has opened a forum to discuss improvements and suggestions for a new AC pouch they're currently designing.

by Evan Luzi | Toolkit | August 17, 2010 | Comments: 2

On set, I’ve always preferred to use a belt-pack I picked up at Target for an AC pouch instead of those offered by production wholesalers because I have yet to find one that matches my needs and expectations. Each camera assistant, like myself, usually has their own opinions on pouches and belts and what works for them, as I’m sure many of you do.

Matt is incredibly quick to respond and even quicker to implement these suggestions into new prototypes. So far, Matt says, they have:

  • D-Rings on both sides of the case for attaching a tape leash, which will most likely be included with the pouch.
  • We have also built in a battery powered light to illuminate the interior of the case. It runs off of 2AA Batteries and runs at a cool temperature.
  • Made with US-MIL SPEC. 1000 Denier Cordura Durable Fabric.
  • Ridged backing and base.
  • Deep Interior to hold items such as Lens tissue, Cleaner, Tiffen Filters, Lens Caps, Batteries, Screws, Blower, Tape Measure, Insert Slate, Small log book. Did we miss anything?

The pouch looks to be heading in the right direction and Matt has been fast on implementing and photographing new prototypes with already improved features like an interior divider and greater pocket customization. Among my favorite features is the battery powered light to illuminate the pouch inside and around it:

Have a feature you would like to see or an improvement you want to make? Head on over to the forum and suggest it to Matt!

Related posts:

  1. Tookit DIY: How to Build a Tag Board for a Slate/Clapperboard
  2. Toolkit: USB Lens Light (Perfect for RED one)
  3. Toolkit DIY: Homemade Hoodman
  4. Cheap DIY Follow Focus Solutions

About the AuthorEvan Luzi

  • Follow Evan on Instagram
  • zVisit Evan’s website

Creator of The Black and Blue. Freelance camera assistant and camera operator for over a decade. He also runs a lot. Learn more about Evan here.

Read Next

How to Build a Tag Board for a Slate/Clapperboard

Tookit DIY: How to Build a Tag Board for a Slate/Clapperboard

Many AC's create something called a tag board to help them out on set. What's a tag board? It's a book-like piece of Plexiglas you slap on the back of the slate that holds camera reports, can have pre-made marks and even hold other essentials like filter, MOS and various Velcro tags. So where do you get one? You don't. You make it and here's how.

  • Toolkit: USB Lens Light (Perfect for RED one)
  • Toolkit DIY: Homemade Hoodman
  • Cheap DIY Follow Focus Solutions
  • Little Known Way to Make Hidden Marks for Actors Outdoors
3 Simple Ways to Become a Better Focus Puller Over the Weekend

3 Simple Ways to Become a Better Focus Puller Over the Weekend

Do you find pulling focus to be tough? You're not the only one. As Sam Garwood says, it's "a really simple really difficult job." The physical act is easy, but the mental pressure is immense. Even if you're an experienced focus puller, honing the skill is an ongoing battle.

  • Should You Buy an AC Pouch to Wear On Set?
  • Don't Be Stupid: The IATSE Local 600's Free Guide to Setiquette
  • What to Do After Your Focus Goes Soft
  • Slate Up in Memory of 2nd AC Sarah Jones

Happy Labor Day: The Film Industry Should Treat Crew Better

Today is Labor Day in the United States and, as we recognize this national holiday dedicated to the achievements of the American workforce, it's important to acknowledge that the crew in the film industry – the labor – hold more skill, talent, and power than is being recognized and rewarded.

  • 'The Gift of Room Tone' featuring Martin Scorsese, Roger Deakins, Cristopher Walken, and More
  • Focus Puller Chris Silano on Using the Preston Light Ranger
  • Tom Cruise Isn't Messing Around with COVID Safety
  • 20 Holiday Gifts for Camera Assistants (That Your Family Can Actually Afford)
Becoming the Reel Deal eBook Cover on iPad

It Only Takes One Gig.

Becoming the Reel Deal is a free downloadable eBook written to help you get your first job on set in the camera department so you can launch your film career.

Sign up now to get your free copy and exclusive tips from The Black and Blue.

Get Your Free Copy
  • Disclosure
  • Privacy Policy
  • Credits
  • Contact

Copyright © 2025 The Black and Blue, LLC