In this day and age, vlogging has never been easier. However, no matter what type of vlogging you do, you need to have the right equipment. Here are a few equipment tips and suggestions to help jumpstart your vlogging journey.
Define Your Needs
The first thing you need to do is define your needs. Do you need one or two digital cameras, a top-of-the-line mirrorless camera, or an action camera? Once you have established this initial need, it is much easier to determine the additional extras you will need.
Vlogging Style
Next, you need to establish your vlogging style. For example, if you are going to do sit-down videos, a DSLR, mirrorless camera, or smartphone is great for the job. On the other hand, if you are vlogging your travels, you may want something a bit more lightweight and compact, such as an action camera.
Get the Right Camera
Each type of camera will have its own pros and cons, and knowing these factors will help you determine the type of camera you need.
Smartphone
Considering you most likely own a smartphone, this is an affordable and easy starting point. While they are fairly versatile, they can be limited and require additional extras, such as lenses or proper microphones, to get to the level you need them to be.
Action Camera
Most action cameras are rugged and lightweight, and offer excellent video quality. While great for activities like hiking and extreme sports, once again, they lack in features such as a wide range of zoom options, accessories, etc.
Mirrorless
Mirrorless cameras are fantastic for shooting video and taking photos. They have countless features, high-quality lenses, and everything you will need to vlog. However, they are typically on the expensive side, meaning they should be something you upgrade to and not start with.
DSLR
Once again, DSLRs are perfect for high-quality, professional-level images, and they are also incredibly versatile. However, they can be more expensive, and not only DSLRs are made equally regarding video capture.
Recording Locations
Another aspect to consider is where you will be doing the majority of your recording. When watching famous vloggers on YouTube, you will often notice that the camera they use at home isn’t the one they travel with or do outdoor filming with.
Indoor filming, for example, will require soundproofing and extra lighting, while outdoor filming will require a camera that can withstand the elements and a microphone to ensure your voice isn’t drowned out.
Additional Gear
You will also need to consider the fact that you will most likely need more than just a camera. While it is the star of the show, it can’t do everything brilliantly.
Lighting
Lighting can make or break the quality of your video, and therefore, it should be one of your top priorities and considerations. Fear not; there are plenty of options to choose from, ranging from ring lights to professional-grade backlighting.
While natural lighting is best, you will find yourself needing a bit of lighting help at some point. Ring lights are great to start with, but if they aren’t cutting it, many photography stores and suppliers allow you to rent lights, meaning you can test what works best for you and your needs.
Microphone
Many cameras don’t have the best microphones, and if you are trying to capture great sound quality, then you will need the gear to do it. Microphones come in all shapes and sizes, and many cameras will have an option to attach one.
Besides on-camera microphones, you also get off-camera options, which can be held, attached to your clothing, etc. These are great options for those who vlog in areas with a lot of ambient noise, as you can get them close to your mouth and direct the sound.
Tripod
A tripod, or a selection of them, should be in every vlogger’s bag. They make filming by yourself a breeze, and allow you to get a steady and clear shot no matter where you are, without needing to use your hands.
For those who want to vlog on the go, a gimbal is a must. These nifty handheld devices are designed to counteract movement, meaning the camera stays steady whether you are walking on a hiking path or filming out the window of a moving train.
Memory Cards & Battery Packs
Both memory cards and battery packs should be in abundance, especially if you are not going to be filming much at home. For memory cards, the bigger the storage space, the better, and it is best to have several.
For batteries and battery packs, once again, the more you have, the better. Filming can burn through battery power, and waiting for one to recharge before filming, it can be annoying. Instead, have three or four, all at full charge, meaning you can always grab one and know they are charged and ready to go.
In conclusion, this is a great starting point when it comes to choosing gear for your vlogging needs. While it isn’t complete, these are the basics that you should look into to ensure you are filming the best videos possible.
