Advancements in technology and online platforms have given birth to a brand new type of artist called a “vlogger”, and this phenomenon has had a meteoric rise from a niche online novelty to mainstream acclaim. Nowadays, vloggers are everywhere, and if you are looking to dip your toe into the vlogging world, you have to make sure that you have the right tools for the job.

Whilst the story of your content is what matters the most, the proper equipment can get the job done more effectively and make your story more engaging. Let’s take a look at 4 essential pieces of equipment that every vlogger should have in their arsenal.

1. Camera

Getting serious with vlogging starts by ensuring that you have video footage of the best quality possible. When you first start vlogging it is important to remember that nowadays, most people expect video content to be in Full HD or even 4K, and providing this to your audience can go a long way in helping to build a successful vlog. In order to do so, it is vital that you invest in a proper camera. This is the single most valuable tool in your content-generating arsenal, and there are many options for you to choose from:

–       Cell phone camera

–       Webcam

–       Camcorder

–       Action camera

–       DSLR or mirrorless cameras

Not all cameras are created equal, however, and before making a purchase, you should think carefully about the type of content that you want to create. One thing to keep in mind is that you do not have to begin with a brand new camera as second-hand devices are widely available and can be easily bought from online retailers.

2. Microphone

Audio quality is just as important as video quality, so it is vital that you invest in a suitable mic in order to be successful as a vlogger. The great thing is, you can always get started with an affordable microphone first and then upgrade to a better model when your needs become more sophisticated and you get more comfortable with audio editing.

It is recommended that you begin with a mic that is quick and easy to set up whilst still being versatile in capturing audio. An additional investment in a wind or puff guard and sound dampening material can help you tremendously in the long run, especially if you are filming outside.

3. Tripod

Whether you are recording your vlog at home or outdoors, your camera will need support. You need to choose a tripod that is sturdy enough to keep your camera nice and steady while getting everything in frame and focus. Choose one that is made from durable materials like aluminum or carbon fiber, with a versatile head, adjustable legs, and high compatibility with multiple camera types and devices. A good tripod is definitely a worthy investment since you cannot hold your camera in your hand at all times when filming interesting video content.

4. Lighting

In order to film an interesting, high-quality video, creating the perfect lighting is a major factor. There are numerous lighting equipment options available on the market for you to choose from. When it comes to controlled lighting, there are two recommended and affordable options which are well worth considering for your vlogging needs:

–       Right lights: This might be the only type of lighting you need for your vlogging career – and because the light comes from all angles with a circular source, they will completely illuminate your face while eliminating any awkward shadows or shading in the process. As right lights come with a mount and a tripod, you can easily position them to suit whatever you are trying to do in the vlog.

–       Softbox: Having to balance the lighting manually is not an easy task, and in situations where the balancing is particularly tricky, using a softbox can be extremely helpful. Being a light modifier, a softbox is the best way to ensure even and gentle light that can help eliminate imperfections – and its high adjustability means that you can control the output based on your preferences.

Whilst the main key to being a successful blogger is the quality of the content that you produce, having the right tools is going to make your job a whole lot easier. Audiences these days demand high production value and so using the right gear is going to help improve the overall quality of your videos. Remember that you don’t need to immediately splash out on the most expensive equipment out there. Experiment with a few different things and see what works for you.