Lights, Camera, Power: The Best Electrical Equipment for Music Videos

Planning to shoot a music video? Whether you’re working with a home studio or setting up a full outdoor scene, one thing is essential (but often overlooked): your electrical setup.

All the vibes in the world won’t matter if the lights flicker, the smoke machine dies, or the breaker trips mid-shot. So here’s your guide to the best electrical equipment to power your next music video — safely and creatively.

⚡ 1. Heavy-Duty Extension Cords (Not the Dollar Store Kind)

Don’t skimp on cords. Use indoor/outdoor-rated, grounded extension cords with enough amp capacity for your lighting, cameras, and effects gear.

💡 Pro Tip: Label them by use — one for lighting, one for sound, etc. It keeps power clean and prevents noise in audio equipment.

🔌 2. Power Strips with Surge Protection

For studios or indoor sets, use UL-listed surge-protected strips. They protect delicate equipment like:

• Mixers
• Laptops
• Cameras
• Audio interfaces

Avoid overloading them — max out at 80% of the rated amps.

🔋 3. Portable Power Stations & Battery Backups

For outdoor shoots or warehouse sets without reliable access to power, use portable power stations (like Goal Zero or Jackery) or even quiet inverter generators.

Perfect for:

• LED light panels
• Fog machines
• Mobile DJ booths
• Charging cameras on the go

💡 4. LED Lighting = Low Draw, High Impact

Modern music videos rely heavily on lighting for drama and mood. Use LED panels and RGB lighting — they look great, use less power, and generate less heat.

Best types:

• Tube lights (Nanlite, Aputure)
• Flat panel LED lights
• Portable battery-powered options for on-the-go

🎛️ 5. Dedicated Circuits for Larger Setups

If you're shooting in a home or studio regularly, you may need to install a dedicated 20-amp circuit just for production. That way, your equipment won’t compete with appliances or HVAC systems.

🎙️ 6. Electrical Noise Filters for Clean Sound

Want crystal-clear audio? Use a power conditioner or noise filter to eliminate buzz or hum in your audio equipment caused by dirty power or nearby lighting setups.

🔥 7. Don’t Forget About Heat & Safety

Fog machines, strobes, and amps can get hot — and overloaded power strips are a major fire risk. Use equipment with thermal protection and unplug when not in use.

👷 Need a Studio Setup or Dedicated Power?

At E&A Electric LLC, we help artists, studios, and creators build safe, custom setups for music videos, shoots, podcasts, and more. Whether it’s a one-time project or a permanent space — we make sure your power never misses a beat.

📞 Contact us today if your music deserves a setup that can keep up.