Are you ready to take the leap and start creating content? Awesome!
Whether you’re interested in vlogging, podcasting, blogging, or social media, the right equipment but also mindset, can make all the difference in the quality of your content. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to start, not to mention it can easily become expensive if you are not aware of a few key things.
That’s why I’m here. I’ll do my best to break down the essentials you need to get started and create high-quality content that stands out.
Cameras (not what you would expect)
First up, let’s talk about cameras. If you’re planning to create video content, a good camera is essential. While a professional-grade camera can be costly, you don’t need to break the bank to get started. A high-quality smartphone camera or a basic digital camera can produce great results if you know how to use them effectively.
Personally, I would say your smartphone is just fine. Sorry, I meant perfect! Like seriously, is it Youtube, Instagram, or even podcasting, your smartphone is amazing for creating content and you definitely don’t need to buy anything. An expensive camera will not magically turn you into a great content creator, so unless you are good with cameras and you have the budget, I would not encourage you to buy one just yet.
Sound (yes that one is important)
Next, let’s talk about microphones. Sound quality is just as important as video quality, if not more important. Yes, you read that right. Especially if you’re creating podcasts audio is your #1 priority. A good microphone can make your content sound more professional and engaging. A USB microphone is a great choice for beginners as they are affordable and easy to use. Just plug and play. There are great mics out there for all the budgets. I would suggest looking into the Fifine brand. They are affordable with amazing and professional quality.
If you’re looking for a more advanced option, a shotgun microphone or a lavalier microphone can offer even better sound quality but that is something I would recommend to people that have a good audio understanding, they know what they need, and have the budget for it.
Lights
Lighting is another crucial aspect of creating great content. Even if you have a high-quality camera, poor lighting can ruin your shots. Natural lighting is always a great option, but if you’re filming indoors, consider investing in some basic lighting equipment. A simple ring light or softbox can make a huge difference in the quality of your content and often you can find something for as low as 20-30 dollars.
Editing
Finally, let’s talk about editing software. Once you’ve captured your content, editing is the next step to take it to the next level. While professional editing software can be expensive, there are plenty of free or low-cost options available.
iMovie and Windows Movie Maker are great options for beginners, while Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro are more advanced options. My first videos were edited on iMovie on my iPhone, which to this day, I still do sometimes, and some videos where even edited on Windows Movie Maker on my computer.
Today I use Filmora which I purchased for 60 dollars a few years ago, but there are more free options nowadays, like Davinci Resolve and even Movavi. If you are a complete beginner I would recommend starting either with iMovie or Windows Movie Maker, just to learn the basics of video editing, like cutting frames, trimming and stuff like that, before you even consider trying a different software, as it will be overwhelming.
Final thoughts
What I would like you to keep from this article is that the equipment you need to start creating content doesn’t have to be expensive or high-tech. Start with the basics and focus on producing high-quality content that tells your story. With time and practice, you can upgrade your equipment and take your content to the next level.
Happy creating!
