It’s no secret that becoming a content creator on YouTube can be highly lucrative under the right circumstances. Vlogging, in particular, is a great way to create engaging content that will help you cultivate a following over time.
But, vlogging isn’t as straightforward as it may seem when it comes to the gear that you need.
Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
Let’s take a look at everything you need to know.
1. A High-Quality Camera
As you may guess, you won’t be able to create the best content possible if you don’t use a high-quality camera. Fortunately, this doesn’t mean that you need to go out and spend thousands of dollars in order to find one that works for you.
For general vlogs (such as those centered around day-to-day life), modern smartphones are often sufficient in terms of camera quality. This makes them an especially-convenient option to use while traveling, as you’ll have less overall equipment to worry about.
Depending on what type of content you’re looking to film, though, you should consider investing in a camera with a flip-out screen, so that you can see yourself while you record yourself.
Have a look at this article for some great options Best Budget-Friendly YouTube Vlogging Cameras With A Flip Screen.
If you’re a travel vlogger or sports vlogger, need to invest in a camera that is geared toward action shots. A GoPro Action camera or one of the cheaper alternatives on the market is a good place to start.
Keep in mind that you can also use multiple cameras during filming. It’s often good to have several camera angles to choose from. A combination of a professional-quality DSLR or a mirrorless camera and smartphones are often more than enough to get the job done when it comes to filming content.
2. A Microphone
Audio quality is just as important as video quality, and should always be prioritized just as highly. Pairing stellar video content with poor audio will heavily detract from the viewer’s overall experience.
When looking for a microphone, you should search for one that is able to provide a clear recording of your voice. On-camera microphones like these or wireless lavalier microphones like these are excellent choices for vloggers. They’re both portable and budget-friendly.
As long as you’re able to capture the clearest signal possible, you aren’t likely to run into any issues.
If you plan on recording at home, there are USB microphones that can provide a professional level of quality without requiring a significant budget.
3. Proper Lighting
Getting the right lighting equipment will allow your camera to record in the way that it’s supposed to.
Since suboptimal lighting conditions can significantly impact the video’s overall quality, lighting is just as crucial as audio and video to handle correctly.
You can use the natural light from a window, when you first get startet.
Another option is to invest in professional-quality lighting equipment to help satisfy this obligation. There are plenty of lighting options on the market geared specifically toward vloggers.
Another great option to consider (even if you’re not focused on this niche) is the ring-lights beauty bloggers often use. This will ensure that you’re properly illuminated during the recording and able to achieve the level of quality you’re after.
4. A Tripod for Stabilization
Some cameras come with built-in stabilization to help automatically correct shaky filming. But, most cameras don’t, leaving it up to you to handle this obligation.
Fortunately, tripods are a reliable option to help circumvent this issue. In many cases, they also allow you to forego having another person film you, which will help streamline the recording process.
If you’re new to tripods, you should read this article Six Things You Need to Know Before Buying a Tripod for Video.
Someone who films their workout routines, for example, is able to set their camera on a tripod and hit ‘record’ without worrying about much else regarding filming.
Even those who film in their bedrooms can benefit from placing their camera on a small tripod for extra stability.
Here are some of the best budget-friendly tripods on the market today.
5. Editing Software
Those who record on their smartphones have a small range of editing options they’re able to take advantage of.
And even if you buy a video editing app like FilmoraGo or KineMaster, it can quickly become tedious having to keep track of everything on the small screen on a smartphone.
When it comes to software, you’ll find that you have a handful of free options.
In general, though, some of these come with roadblocks such as limited features, but they can still get you far. If vlogging is something you’re seriously considering, it’s highly recommended to include premium editing software such as Premiere Pro or Final Cut in your budget.
The top-tier software providers also have subscription-based payment options, allowing you to make use of its features without having to spend a significant amount of cash at once.
Finding The Right Gear for Vlogging Can Seem Difficult
But it doesn’t have to be.
With the above information in mind about the gear you can use for vlogging, you’ll be well on your way toward creating quality content that will help you establish a loyal fan base (and eventually bring in revenue).
If you already have a particular type of vlog in mind, you can read about the gear other YouTubers use in my Ultimate Guide To The Tools And Equipment Youtubers Use.
Further reading
Camera gear is only one part of the equation. You also need to get the marketing and content working in order to be a successful vlogger on YouTube. So here are a few other articles to help you out.
Here you can read the experiences of successful vloggers that have found success on YouTube: 26 Successful YouTubers Speak Out: “What I Wish I’d Known Before Starting My YouTube Channel”
Read about some of the Dos and Dont’s for creating a successful YouTube-channel: The Dos and Don’ts of Creating a Successful YouTube Channel
Read about 10 Effective Ways to Get More YouTube Views.
I hope you find this article helpful? If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out and ask them in the comment section below. And I’ll do my best to see if I can answer them.
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