Jumpstart: 7 Vlogging Equitment Essentials
Do you want to get Internet famous?
In the mid-’00s, video sharing platforms like YouTube gave birth to a brand new type of artist and celebrity: Vloggers.
A few short years later, and these video bloggers have gone from niche online novelties to mainstream acclaim.
Nowadays, it seems like vloggers are a dime a dozen. So, those looking to tap into this world need to make sure they have the right tools in their corner to set themselves above the competition.
Interested in creating a channel, but aren’t sure what kind of vlogging equipment you’ll need to get started? We’ve got you covered.
Here are the seven essential pieces of vlogging equipment every successful video blogger needs.
1. Camera
This one may seem like a no brainer. But, a vlogger’s camera is the most valuable tool in their content generating arsenal.
After all, you can’t have a video-blog without any video!
That said, before you run out and buy the best camera money can buy, you need to take a moment to decide what kind of content you’re going to be creating. For example, if you want to vlog about your love of extreme water sports, you may not want to invest in a top of the line, but not waterproof, Canon Powershot.
You also need to take some time to think about what you want your overall style to be.
If you’re going for an ultra-sleek, film expert look, you may want to invest in an industry-standard camera.
But, most modern smartphones, like the iPhone, feature a camera powerful enough to handle any video project you throw its way.
2. Microphone
If video is the lifeblood of vlogging, then audio is the heart.
While it can be easy to get wrapped up in video quality, if your videos have bad audio, your audience isn’t going to stick around long. So, if you want to be successful in your new career as a vlogger, you’re going to need to invest in a suitable mic.
However, that doesn’t mean you have to go out and buy the most expensive microphone on the market. You can start with something cheap, and work your way up as you become more comfortable with audio editing.
That said, there’s one aspect to choosing a mic you’ll need to keep in mind.
Have you ever tried to talk to someone on the phone on a windy day?
Unless you want your audio to sound like you’re always on the set of *Twister, you’ll want to invest in a wind or puff guard as well.
You may also want to consider investing in some sound dampening material to make sure your auto comes out sounding crisp and clear.
3. Tripod
Whether you’re recording at a desk or wandering around outside, you’re going to need a way to support your camera.
While tripods are a bit of a standard when it comes to recording, they aren’t always the best option. When it comes to choosing camera support, the name of the game is keeping everything in frame and focus, and your shot nice and steady.
One favorite of many successful vloggers is the GorillaPod by JOBY. This nifty tabletop tripod has fully posable legs, so you can mount it just about anywhere to ensure a perfect shot.
4. Lighting
If you only invest in one type of lighting to cover you for the entirety of your vlogging career, make it a ring light.
Ring lights are the perfect way to evenly light objects in front of a camera.
Because the light comes from all angles, by using a ring light, you can ensure you won’t have any awkward shadows or shading on your face.
That said, there is a little more to lighting than what’s in the foreground of your shot.
While you can technically balance the lighting in a shot with regular house lamps, or even natural light fro a window, nothing beats the softbox.
Softbox lights are the best way to ensure even, gentle lighting throughout your shot. Because of their standard light-dispersing film, you won’t have to worry about any direct rays or awkward glares.
5. Remote Shutter
Say you’re recording a vlog, and you need to take a short break, what do you do?
While you could leave your camera rolling and wind up with an obscenely long piece of footage to edit down, it makes much more sense to stop recording.
But, if you hit the record button on your camera, you could risk tilting or moving it. And, that might end up throwing off the rest of your recording.
And that’s where the remote shutter comes in.
With a remote shutter, you can start and stop your camera whenever you want, without the risk of throwing off your setup mid-session.
6. Green Screen
While this particular tool is especially popular with the Let’s Play crowd, the green screen is an essential tool in the vlogger’s arsenal as well.
If you’re planning on being a little more daring with your editing, or are looking for a way to jazz-up a reaction video, the green screen can help.
And, if you don’t have a decent space to use as a backdrop to your videos, a green screen can help create the ideal background to fit your aesthetic.
7. Editing Software
Finally, once you have everything recorded, you’re going to need a way to pull everything together.
Tools like Adobe Premiere and After Effects are industry standard for a reason. That said, they can be pretty daunting if you’re new to the world of video editing.
Fortunately, there’s plenty of editing software out there that’s just as good and a bit more user-friendly.
Programs like Apple’s iMovie, are perfect for new vloggers looking for a way to cut together their video footage and audio recordings. Many of today’s most popular YouTube stars got their start using software like this, and a few still do.
Your goal as a vlogger should be to generate content consistently. And, one of the best ways to do that is by using the tools your most comfortable using. You can always learn new skills as your career progresses.
Choosing Your Vlogging Equipment
Now that you know what kind of vlogging equipment you’ll need to kickstart your career, it’s time to start shopping.
Need a little help finding the right tools or learning the skills you need to become a successful vlogger? We’re here to help.
Contact us for more information about our available services, or to kickstart your online career today.