I’m really getting into my vlogging. I’ve written before about some of the equipment I use, however that’s more ‘on the go’ filming. A lot of my recent videos have been pieces straight to camera. With a bit of tweaking, I’ve worked out a decent set up and I thought I’d share it with you. If you’re buying it in one hit – it’s a BIG outlay. Don’t be put off however, you can buy bits and pieces as you go. Plus, the camera itself is great for photography too – so as well as upping your vlogging game, you can boost your photography too! This will give you an idea what you could need to start vlogging.
So first up –
1. The Camera
I have a Canon EOS 700D Digital SLR Camera – it’s NOT cheap. There are cheaper cameras out there (and more expensive) however, I love my Canon. Now, I usually edit and produce in Ultra HD (4k) and the Canon is 1080p. Most Canon DSLR cameras AREN’T 4k yet, unless you want to pay thousands. But a decent DLSR camera has a MASSIVE image sensor, so even when scaled up to 4k – it looks pretty decent. Nothing quite beats a native 4k camera, but it’s good enough. You could create your vlogs in 1080p (HD) and they will look great. The 700D has face tracking too, so you can just set the camera off and it will keep you in focus. It also has a screen that can be folded around so you can see what’s being filmed – perfect for self filming.
2. The Lens
I’ve got several lenses, however I’ve found the Canon EF-S 10-18 mm f/4.5-5.6 IS STM Lens is great for vlogging. It’s good because you can do ‘self filming’.You can hold the camera at arm’s length (at 10mm at least) and the frame won’t be filled with EXTREME CLOSEUP. If you’ve got the camera on you on a tripod, you can have the tripod nearby so you can read off a script (more than that in a bit) or reach the camera. It’s cracking little lens, and isn’t hideously expensive either. The ‘IS’ (Image Stabilisation) is helpful too when you’re out and about – it reduces the camera shake when you’re self filming. This lens doesn’t ‘zoom’ all that much, but there is a bit of a zoom to get the shot you want without needing to move the tripod. Speaking of which..
3. The Tripod
I’ve got the Leaptek Professional Portable Magnesium Aluminium Alloy Tripod Monopod Kit with Ball Head. It’s a beauty, it folds up into a tiny bag, however when unfolded, it’s large, and stable. It’s tall enough to be level with my upper body when I’m speaking to the camera. It comes complete with a good quality bag / case to protect it while you’re on the move. There are a LOT of Tripods out there, ranging massively in price. This one is a good compromise of cost and quality. You NEED something you can rely on – something that will hold your expensive camera firmly. My model seems to be out of stock at time of writing, there are similar ones though. Just make sure you read reviews first.
4. The Light
Lighting is so important when filming. Daylight is ideal, however during darker months, you just don’t always have enough light. I use the Andoer 160 LED Light. With the white filter, it casts a nice, crisp light on you. I’m still experimenting with lighting – I’m planning on upgrading to something a little bigger. If you’re starting out, and want something that does a cracking job, this £20 light is just fine!
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