Content creation, especially through vlogging has seen a boom in recent times. And if you're a beginner, you've hit the right link. But also note that it's very easy to distinguish the good stuff from the bad simply by the tools you use. If you don't want to fall into the second-class, shabby category, it's simple, invest in these essential vlogging equipment and get cracking! These are professional level tools and definitely worth the investment.
Victory Vlogging: These Essentials Will Help The Content Creator In You Shine
Camera
No brainer here! To create immersive content, you need a killer camera that captures it all. Whether compact, DSLRs or mirrorless, the type of camera doesn't matter so much as its features. You just need to make sure the camera has high video quality (best would be 4k res), microphone jack, inbuilt stabiliser, rotating LCD screen, portability and manual mode.
The Canon EOS M50 is a good choice for a beginner that'll let you shoot stunning videos. It also has wifi connectivity that lets you stream live. You can also check out Nikon Z50 or Sony Digital Vlog Camera. If you're looking to make a one-time investment the Panasonic Lumix GH5 is the ultimate vlogging partner. GoPro would be a great travel-friendly choice.
Tripod
Nothing hits its full potential without a strong support system in life and, surprise -- while vlogging! Nobody enjoys shaky footage, which is why you need to invest in a sturdy tripod. Plus, a tripod means you're hands-free, aka you get to use em' and express yourself better. There are many, many options out there depending on how heavy your camera is.
Joby Gorillapod is a good option that has flexible legs to prop your cam on the go, check out The Tygot Tripod if you're looking for a cheaper alternative. If you're a travel vlogger you can even consider Manfrotto Monopod or Selfie Stick. For heavier cameras, get the Digitek DTR 550 LW. To mount your cam on the table you can consider Manfrotto MTPIXI-B.
Gimbal
For extra support, especially if you're looking for the quality of a tripod together with the freedom being able to pivot your feet while you shoot moving objects, buy a gimbal. It will help steady your camera, and produce quality footage minus the bumps and shakes.
For vlogging, a flexible 3-axis gimbal comes recommended like the DJI Ronin-S 3-Axis Gimbal. If you're looking to vlog from your phone the DJI OM4 SE is a good option. Another great option is the DJI Osmo Pocket which is a video recorder and gimbal in one and also saves you some monies.
Microphone
No matter how great your video is, if your viewers can't hear you well, they're instantly going to drop off. A good mic will suppress background disturbances and make you be heard crisp and clear. Most cameras come with an inbuilt microphone which is good enough while shooting home videos, or anything that requires you standing close to the camera. But for anything else, especially outdoor shoots it's best you invest in a microphone.
This one from JBL is battery operated and compatible with your camera, phone or tablet, it'll allow you to capture clear sound even with movement away from the cam.
Lighting
If you want to look professional, you need good lighting no matter indoors or outdoors. And don't worry, you won't need fancy lighting, only effective lighting. Good lighting surprisingly will also let you get away with having a not-so-expensive camera, especially if you're shooting at home, and it will make you and colours look good. If you're a beauty vlogger or if you vlog up-close, get a Ring Light that will remove shadows from the face with a soft, even light.
There are many that you can find online but this one's tried and tested by us so we know it'll get the job done. For fill, key or background lighting get the Limo studio kit. It is also wise to invest in a portable light for outdoors, like Manfrotto LED Pocket Light.
Backdrop
Backdrops aka green screens are a choice you make based on the type of vlogging you do. If you prefer showing your surroundings/room that's cool too. A backdrop will only seem more professional and clean. It will give you a uniform, clean colour and is great if you want to introduce text in post-production. You can also use a green screen go cut out the original background and replace it with an artificial one.
Remote Shutter
A Remote Shutter is a pretty cool tool that many miss adding to their kitty. It basically allows you to start, pause or stop recording your camera from a distance. This let's you stay in position if you need a retake (we know how important this is). They make vlogging life infinitely easy and are an affordable purchase too. If your camera has WiFi you can do the same with your smartphone but if it doesn't, do get the AmazonBasics Wireless Remote Control. Make sure to the pick the one compatible with your camera.
Backpack
Another forgotten member of the vlogging clan, a proper backpack is probably one of the most important pieces of equipment, simply because it protects all of the above. Remember that all your vlogging equipment is expensive. Yes, you can use a regular backpack but the specialised ones come with proper compartments to prevent any collateral damage. You will find many on Amazon under Camera Backpacks or Photography Equipment Travel Bag.
Pro-Tip
Don't forget to bring your content to life with the right editing software. Because if not, there's no point in all the prior investment. Free editors include Windows Movie Maker or iMovie. The premium ones include Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro. Check out our list of Top Apps To Edit Photos & Videos On Phone.
With inputs from Saniya Raza