* Equipment for Content Creators *
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Hi guys, I often get questions on what equipment I use for vlogging and creating content.
So I decided to share here a few links for equipment of different budget that can come in handy in video / audio / photo work and hobbies (most of it is on a lower budget side for emerging vloggers, filmmakers and photographers).
For some of them it took a lot of time and research to watch various reviews and test items.
I am not affiliated with any brand, speaking mostly from my experience and online research.
Below are affiliate links to AMAZON.COM
Some of these items I have tried myself for social media, vlogging and video and audio recording, course creation.
Others I chose because they are popular among creators and have better reviews.
What is best for you depends on the needs and budget.
Feel free to do your own research and contact me for any questions.
Note: Some links are affiliate, if you make a purchase with that link within a few hours, I might get a small commission (usually around 1-4% at no extra cost to you. If you like the content I offer for free, that is also a great way to make a small contribution.
I recommend opening the links (if copied manually) in a new tab.
Prices in USD.
BEFORE YOU BUY, DECIDE WHAT YOU NEED!
So you have to think of what are the recording conditions of your video work now and what will be in the next 2-3 years,
it makes sense to buy equipment which will help you create videos and photography of the best possible quality with your current budget.
So you have to think of what are the recording conditions of your video work now and what will be in the next 2-3 years,
it makes sense to buy equipment which will help you create videos and photography of the best possible quality with your current budget.
* SOUND *
There are essentially 4 types of audio equipment you can start with:
1) SHOTGUN MICS (they can give better quality, however require a special stick or tripod for them, and often bigger mics are operated by a soundman who is recording the sound to a separate sound recorder - so it is a fancier and more expensive setup)
2) small SHORTGUN MICS
they are made by different companies.
Note: I tried for vlogging Rode Video Micro a few years ago, however got a defected microphone (a few people I know used it more successfullly though), so I personally not sure how good Rode Micro's quality is. I had better luck with Deity duo mic (see the link).
To use those mics with a phone, you would need to buy an adaptor for your phone, for example for Androids it is a TRS/ TRRS adaptor.
(see the link for the accessories below).
Some shotgun mics are mono, other stereo, research on what is best for your type of work.
Below are a few popular options (more compact mics, there are also more expensive and bigger and powerful mics used in film-making and by YouTubers, content creators).
1) SHOTGUN MICS (they can give better quality, however require a special stick or tripod for them, and often bigger mics are operated by a soundman who is recording the sound to a separate sound recorder - so it is a fancier and more expensive setup)
2) small SHORTGUN MICS
they are made by different companies.
Note: I tried for vlogging Rode Video Micro a few years ago, however got a defected microphone (a few people I know used it more successfullly though), so I personally not sure how good Rode Micro's quality is. I had better luck with Deity duo mic (see the link).
To use those mics with a phone, you would need to buy an adaptor for your phone, for example for Androids it is a TRS/ TRRS adaptor.
(see the link for the accessories below).
Some shotgun mics are mono, other stereo, research on what is best for your type of work.
Below are a few popular options (more compact mics, there are also more expensive and bigger and powerful mics used in film-making and by YouTubers, content creators).
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3) LAVALIER MICS
This type of mics are a MUST to have imo! They might not provide as good quality as expensive pro shotgun mics, however you can carry them around easily anywhere you go in case you want to improvise and shoot a video no your phone. Just make sure that the input of the phone is compatible with the microphone's jack. Usually it is a 3.5mm jack, for some cell phones an adaptor might be required (see example below).
Boya Lavalier mic
Convenient for 1 person interviews / videos, lightweight, easy to use. I recommend buying extra foam covers (see another photo) as they can be lost easily.
It is also great to have 1 extra mic like that, in case you lose or forget the 1st one somewhere, as well as as a backup.
I've used this mic for a few years and it's really handy! Most of my videos on the Life in Glow Wellness channel are done with this microphone.
This type of mics are a MUST to have imo! They might not provide as good quality as expensive pro shotgun mics, however you can carry them around easily anywhere you go in case you want to improvise and shoot a video no your phone. Just make sure that the input of the phone is compatible with the microphone's jack. Usually it is a 3.5mm jack, for some cell phones an adaptor might be required (see example below).
Boya Lavalier mic
Convenient for 1 person interviews / videos, lightweight, easy to use. I recommend buying extra foam covers (see another photo) as they can be lost easily.
It is also great to have 1 extra mic like that, in case you lose or forget the 1st one somewhere, as well as as a backup.
I've used this mic for a few years and it's really handy! Most of my videos on the Life in Glow Wellness channel are done with this microphone.
If you use an iPhone or an Android without a 3.5mm input, I recommend getting either a standard 3.5mm jack Boya lav mic + buy an adaptor for your phone - read the description and check FAQ whether it is compatible with your type of phone.
Alternatively you can buy a version with a lightning input for iPhone (UBC-C for some Androids) however you'd have to buy an adaptor for it if you want to use if for a camera, in my opinion it is more versatile to rather buy an adapter for your phone.
I also recommend to get a few extra foams for the lav mic and wind shield covers (furry filters), especially if you shoot outdoors.
Alternatively you can buy a version with a lightning input for iPhone (UBC-C for some Androids) however you'd have to buy an adaptor for it if you want to use if for a camera, in my opinion it is more versatile to rather buy an adapter for your phone.
I also recommend to get a few extra foams for the lav mic and wind shield covers (furry filters), especially if you shoot outdoors.
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alternative lav mic option
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OTHER BOYA MICS
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Dual lavalier mics - great for 2 people (or recording from different angles).
1) with a long cord 2) compact 3) for more movement around Great for interviews, vlogging, simple podcasts etc. |
AUDIO & LIGHTING ACCESSORIES
1) CASE
Some microphones come in a soft pouch or without any case, so I highly recommend getting 1-3 cases for your mics and accessories.
Here are a few to choose from (they are more affordable than special audio cases and cost from $6 to $25 depending on the size, brand, buildup)
Check the description, reviews and size!! *** I am a huge fan of those cases and also put there things when travelling that I want to protect: HDs (hard drives), cords, dead cats (wind shields for mics), extra foams, various cards for photography & video, and other things.
Some cases offer more protection than others and can be in different colors which is not only for beauty but also helps to remember what equipment is in what case :). Yes, there black cases as well :), if you click on the image there are a few colors to choose from.
CASES for Small Audio / Photo/ Video Equipment >>
Some microphones come in a soft pouch or without any case, so I highly recommend getting 1-3 cases for your mics and accessories.
Here are a few to choose from (they are more affordable than special audio cases and cost from $6 to $25 depending on the size, brand, buildup)
Check the description, reviews and size!! *** I am a huge fan of those cases and also put there things when travelling that I want to protect: HDs (hard drives), cords, dead cats (wind shields for mics), extra foams, various cards for photography & video, and other things.
Some cases offer more protection than others and can be in different colors which is not only for beauty but also helps to remember what equipment is in what case :). Yes, there black cases as well :), if you click on the image there are a few colors to choose from.
CASES for Small Audio / Photo/ Video Equipment >>
5 pack deal!
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2) TRS to TRRS adapter
Various TRS/TRRS adapters >> There are a few different types (info for newbies): A) male to male (3.5mm jack as on the 1st picture, it means that one end is put to your recording device (e.g. cell phone or a shotgun mic) and another into another device (e.g. video camera). In this case both devices would have a "hole" - female input where you would put the adapter in. B) male to female (one end would have a TRS or TRRS end and another a special end with a female input/output). Double check before buying the adapter what type you need. For example, Canon DSLRs have a TRS input, so one end has to be a male TRS. An Android or older iPhone phones have a TRRS female input, where a TRRS 3.5mm jack would be put in. like the one on the photo from amazon. If you have a recent cell phone, some might have a lightning jack and NO 3.5 jack for headphones and mic, so either you have to get a mic with such option or (what I personally recommend) get a mic with 3.5mm jack and get an adapter for your phone. That way you can use it for various devices. Read description, Questions & Answers on Amazon and reviews or consult a professional if you have doubt. _____ 3) 3.5mm jack to lighting adaptor for iphones |
LIGHTING EQUIPMENT
1) LIGHTS - single light or a light set
see ring lights below
Lighting equipment depends on your needs. a few tips are coming later in summer 2023.
2) CLAMP
For video continuous lighting is necessary (either lights of various types of manipulating / reflecting available light).
You can use natural light from the window or outdoor daylight, however often a reflector is recommended to even up / manipulate the lighting.
This type of metal CLAMP has been a life saver for my little home studio! I'd recommend buying 2-3 of them, because you might want to put reflectors to different angles or use them in 2 rooms / spaces. Note: you would need to have a light stamp for each of these clamps (they are mounted on top of it).
As you can see in the video below I use it with a cardboard (pastel paper or type of thick cardboard used for framing), which you can usually get at arts & crafts stores (google for your area).
Metal CLAMPS >>
Here is the time stamp for my YouTube video where I show how it works.
3) LIGHT STANDS ( 1-4 )
(depending on your how many lights you use and how many reflectors)
Here are a few examples of clamps, stands, reflectors.
I recommend bigger reflectors at least 60x90cm for home studio or outdoor shoots because they offer a wider surface of reflection.
Alternatively you can choose big round reflectors (which might be a bit more awkward to hold). It depends on your needs!
Good to have both :).
Clamps like on the 4th photo can help to fix fabric to a stand or any surface where you can use the clamp.
!! Make sure there is a way to attach the clamp to whatever you want to fix it.
see ring lights below
Lighting equipment depends on your needs. a few tips are coming later in summer 2023.
2) CLAMP
For video continuous lighting is necessary (either lights of various types of manipulating / reflecting available light).
You can use natural light from the window or outdoor daylight, however often a reflector is recommended to even up / manipulate the lighting.
This type of metal CLAMP has been a life saver for my little home studio! I'd recommend buying 2-3 of them, because you might want to put reflectors to different angles or use them in 2 rooms / spaces. Note: you would need to have a light stamp for each of these clamps (they are mounted on top of it).
As you can see in the video below I use it with a cardboard (pastel paper or type of thick cardboard used for framing), which you can usually get at arts & crafts stores (google for your area).
Metal CLAMPS >>
Here is the time stamp for my YouTube video where I show how it works.
3) LIGHT STANDS ( 1-4 )
(depending on your how many lights you use and how many reflectors)
Here are a few examples of clamps, stands, reflectors.
I recommend bigger reflectors at least 60x90cm for home studio or outdoor shoots because they offer a wider surface of reflection.
Alternatively you can choose big round reflectors (which might be a bit more awkward to hold). It depends on your needs!
Good to have both :).
Clamps like on the 4th photo can help to fix fabric to a stand or any surface where you can use the clamp.
!! Make sure there is a way to attach the clamp to whatever you want to fix it.
These clip heads I use for cardboard / framing matt / pastel cardboard reflectors, both when I shoot with available lighting (daylight from the window) and reflecting studio light. For reflectors I have a few pieces of frames and pastel cardboard which I've got at a local art store. I put the reflections in vertical plane when for example doing quick snaps with my phone of my handmade jewellery or MACards.
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Neewer Ring Light (has fairly good reviews, haven't tried it myself yet).
WIRELESS MICROPHONE SYSTEMS
These wireless mics have been quite praised by vloggers for their ease of use and versatility.
They might look a bit more bulky than a smaller clip-on lav mic, however wireless, so can be used for example when you move more or simply do not want the wire to be visible. One is single, another is duo (which can be handy if 2 people are shooting, vlogging or if you want to put them in different places and record simultaneously.
These wireless mics have been quite praised by vloggers for their ease of use and versatility.
They might look a bit more bulky than a smaller clip-on lav mic, however wireless, so can be used for example when you move more or simply do not want the wire to be visible. One is single, another is duo (which can be handy if 2 people are shooting, vlogging or if you want to put them in different places and record simultaneously.
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VIDEO
LINKS to Video equipment are coming later in 2023.
There are a lot of fairly good cameras for vlogging and a lot of debate which one is better.
For now I recommend to start with whatever you have at hand, even a cell phone (both iPhones or Android phones can do a good job).
There are a few accessories that can come in handy, depending on the type of videos you shoot.
Here are a few popular mirrorless lightweight cameras for YouTube videos and vlogging.
For expensive equipment I'd recommend purchasing some kind of protection plan as well, especially if you do not have Prime account (which usually allows about 30 days for any returns and exchanges, if the product is fulfilled by Amazon, if not then shipping and returns/ exchanges might differ in conditions). Some cameras are available with installment plan, which can be helpful.
(Amazon often offers 2-3 options for protection plan for equipment, read the find print and check reviews! a couple of times it saved me some $$ when I have to return/ exchange the item.)
There are a lot of fairly good cameras for vlogging and a lot of debate which one is better.
For now I recommend to start with whatever you have at hand, even a cell phone (both iPhones or Android phones can do a good job).
There are a few accessories that can come in handy, depending on the type of videos you shoot.
Here are a few popular mirrorless lightweight cameras for YouTube videos and vlogging.
For expensive equipment I'd recommend purchasing some kind of protection plan as well, especially if you do not have Prime account (which usually allows about 30 days for any returns and exchanges, if the product is fulfilled by Amazon, if not then shipping and returns/ exchanges might differ in conditions). Some cameras are available with installment plan, which can be helpful.
(Amazon often offers 2-3 options for protection plan for equipment, read the find print and check reviews! a couple of times it saved me some $$ when I have to return/ exchange the item.)
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ACCESSORIES FOR VIDEO
Camera rigs (frame to hold your phone, a microphone, small light)
* Rigs can be used handheld and help to make the video a bit smoother when holding or moving with the camera (handy for vlogging and events)
* they can also be put on a tripod (make sure there a way to attach the rig to your type of tripod, an adaptor might be needed for different types of screw size space, pardon my English :)
* In some environment it can help to feel that the camera and equipment is more secure rather than holding the camera in hands (!! make sure the phone / light / mic is securely attached and not going to fall down)
* If there is light source right on the rig (e.g. like on the Neewer rig on the photo), it can save up some money having a few functions in it
* if you shoot both horizontal and vertical videos, you can turn the rig vertically. What you need to check in this case is the the light and mic can be pointed where you want them to be.
* Some phone cases might be too bulky to put into the phone holder, make sure the phone feels secure (not wabbly) when put in, whether with the case or without it.
* Rigs can be used handheld and help to make the video a bit smoother when holding or moving with the camera (handy for vlogging and events)
* they can also be put on a tripod (make sure there a way to attach the rig to your type of tripod, an adaptor might be needed for different types of screw size space, pardon my English :)
* In some environment it can help to feel that the camera and equipment is more secure rather than holding the camera in hands (!! make sure the phone / light / mic is securely attached and not going to fall down)
* If there is light source right on the rig (e.g. like on the Neewer rig on the photo), it can save up some money having a few functions in it
* if you shoot both horizontal and vertical videos, you can turn the rig vertically. What you need to check in this case is the the light and mic can be pointed where you want them to be.
* Some phone cases might be too bulky to put into the phone holder, make sure the phone feels secure (not wabbly) when put in, whether with the case or without it.
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TRIPODS
Links for good tripods are coming later in summer 2023.
If you are doing overhead videos, e.g. with cards on the table or jewellery-making, arts & crafts at table, then you would need a special setup for that. There are a few creative budget ways to do it however a more reliable way is to use an overhead tripod. Here are a few examples.
Overhead tripods >>
Important thing usually is to make sure that the legs of the stand / tripod do not get into the frame of the shot.
As well as that it can be stable enough for a few minutes. You might have to fix on the other end of the tripod's stick some kind of weight (in pro film & photography people use sandbags, you can use packs with buckweat, salt or even a mesh bag with water bottles ;). Test it so that your camera does not tip over and fall on the table or floor.
Some more expensive overhead tripods often have a hook to put that weight on (either on the end of the horizontal stick or under the base of the tripod, or both).
Having a remote control for your phone or camera can also be very important.
Some of them work better than others => search & read reviews and FAQ before buying.
If you are doing overhead videos, e.g. with cards on the table or jewellery-making, arts & crafts at table, then you would need a special setup for that. There are a few creative budget ways to do it however a more reliable way is to use an overhead tripod. Here are a few examples.
Overhead tripods >>
Important thing usually is to make sure that the legs of the stand / tripod do not get into the frame of the shot.
As well as that it can be stable enough for a few minutes. You might have to fix on the other end of the tripod's stick some kind of weight (in pro film & photography people use sandbags, you can use packs with buckweat, salt or even a mesh bag with water bottles ;). Test it so that your camera does not tip over and fall on the table or floor.
Some more expensive overhead tripods often have a hook to put that weight on (either on the end of the horizontal stick or under the base of the tripod, or both).
Having a remote control for your phone or camera can also be very important.
Some of them work better than others => search & read reviews and FAQ before buying.
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Tripods for Vlogging (with smaller cameras or phones)
For a DSLR usually you need a more solid tripod unless you put if on a table.
When shooting outdoors, keep in mind that some tripods are very lightweight and can be thrown over by the wind, if it is strong.
(you'd have to ground them or shoot in non-windy areas or indoors).
For a DSLR usually you need a more solid tripod unless you put if on a table.
When shooting outdoors, keep in mind that some tripods are very lightweight and can be thrown over by the wind, if it is strong.
(you'd have to ground them or shoot in non-windy areas or indoors).
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A few options for a selfie stick which can be used as a mini tripod (phone's stand).
Those stands vary in the type of flexibility, length of the central stick and type of mount.
Some of them come with a phone mount, for others you'd have to buy it separately. I recommend having a tripod which can also
be used for a compact or mirrorless camera, or (when you can afford it) have 2 table tripods and selfie sticks, that would give you flexibility.
Note: with the ones that have flexible (garilla type) legs, be careful using them anywhere high (from where the camera can fall - like a tree / bike rail or an overhead tripod, etc), make sure at first that your camera or phone can be very secure reliable phone holder.
I also recommend having at hand a couple of extra phone holders which can be put onto any tripod, it can come in very handy!
(also sometimes easy to lose).
See below a few selfie sticks and table phone tripods with good reviews.
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VIDEO CAMERA & PHONE STABILIZERS
It highly dependson what phone and camera you use and your budget.
More information is coming later in summer 2023.
* TECH TALK - TIPS from PRO Bloggers *
Playlist with some great videos from famous bloggers.
* equipment tips
* photography tips (for thumbnails)
Coming soon! ;)