>>2575887In the OP there's a nice a link to cameras/gear within your budget (as this is a commonly asked question). The T3i/EOSM/GH3/T2i all fall within your budget easily with enough room leftover for the essentials.
You will want a tripod at the minimum, & lens to go with your camera.
The "Kit Lens" commonly sold with most cameras is perfect for you as: A) Cheap, B) Offers a commonly used range [convenient], C) is simple to use, D) has common functions of other lenses.
It is designed for use with beginning shooters to get a feel for how a lenses work, & to help you make more informed decisions as you get better.
The tripod is the one standard tool you'll see any & all film makers use (again, check the OP's link for suggestions).
Both are absolutely necessary as cameras don't work without lenses, & tripods allow you to get nice not shakey shots when standing still. These are the only 3 things you need to get started.
Later you may want to invest in better sound equipment (a recorder + microphone), a shoulder rig (to make handheld shooting smoother - but still handheld), & various other pieces of equipment that you'll learn the uses & advantages/disadvantages of as you go.
But again, Camera, Lens, & Tripod are all you'll need to get started.
Be sure to also check the archives of Video General posts to see if a question similar to yours has been asked/answered (also in the OP if I remember?) - feel free to ask if it hasn't.
When you do get your gear, just go out and shoot stuff, & then ask for constructive criticism (from honest critics, not family/friends who'll protect your ego)/help as you go.
>>2575891Crew Deal Memos (for your crew, talent, anyone working on the production to know how/when/howmuch they'll be paid etc), Expendables (such as tape, hard drives, craft services etc) need to be covered, a finalized schedule/budget needs to be made as well.
Royalties are negotiable & definitely to be discussed (not mandated) between you and the company.
