Microphone, camera, tripod, editing, lighting, oh my!
If you’re thinking about starting a YouTube channel but are overwhelmed by all of the equipment needed, this guide is for you.
Starting a YouTube channel can be an excellent way to reach and educate people as a dietitian.
In this blog post, we will guide you through a list of Youtube equipment for beginners that will simplify the process of getting started on YouTube.
*Some of the links in this article are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission when you purchase products through my link at no additional cost to you.
YouTube Starter Kit
High-Quality Camera
The first element of your YouTube starter kit is a camera.
While investing in a high-quality camera can enhance the production value of your YouTube videos, it is not a necessity, especially when starting out.
The latest iPhones offer excellent video quality with features like 4K resolution, image stabilization, and adjustable exposure settings. Filming on an iPhone can provide impressive results and is a cost-effective option for many dietitian YouTubers.
However, if you decide to invest in a professional camera, there are a few excellent choices available.
The Canon EOS M50
The Canon EOS M50 is a popular choice for its portability, versatility, and high-quality imaging capabilities.
It has compact and lightweight design, making it highly portable for travel and everyday shooting.
With its 24.1-megapixel sensor, it delivers impressive image quality, while the versatile lens system offers a wide range of options to suit various shooting needs.
The camera's Dual Pixel CMOS AF provides fast and accurate autofocus which is available in 4K resolution.
The Sony ZV-1
The Sony ZV-1 is another great choice for those looking for a compact and versatile camera that delivers impressive image quality.
The camera's flip-out LCD screen is perfect for vlogging and self-recording, which allows you to monitor your content while on camera.
The Sony ZV-1 also includes a vari-angle LCD screen, a built-in microphone, and a hot shoe for attaching accessories.
With its user-friendly interface, high-quality audio recording, and wireless connectivity options, the Sony ZV-1 is a great beginner camera.
The Panasonic LUMIX GH5
The Panasonic LUMIX GH5 is a great camera for photographers and videographers who want versatility and professional-grade features.
One of the key features is the camera's built-in image stabilization system which compensates for camera shake and results in sharper handheld shot.
It also includes advanced features like 6K Photo mode and 4K Burst, which allows photographers with the ability to extract still frames from high-quality video footage.
The GH5 offers dual SD card slots, extensive connectivity options including HDMI, USB, and Wi-Fi, and compatibility with a wide range of professional lenses.
Microphone
The next element of your YouTube starter kit is a microphone. There are several microphone models available that cater to different filming needs and budgets.
Rode SmartLav+
The Rode SmartLav+ is a great option for a clip-on lavalier microphone.
A lavalier mic is a small microphone that you can clip onto your clothing, like your collar.
It's used when you want to record audio hands-free and discreetly.
People commonly use it for interviews, presentations, or videos. It captures clear and high-quality sound from all directions and is perfect for situations where you need to speak and move freely.
Audio-Technica AT875R
If you plan to record podcasts, a shotgun microphone will provide the best audio quality.
A shotgun microphone is a directional microphone, which means it captures sound mainly from the direction it's pointed while reducing background noise.
Its long, narrow shape resembles a shotgun barrel. You can mount it on a boom pole or attach it to a camera to focus on the subject's audio.
Shotgun microphones are great for isolating desired sound and minimizing unwanted noise, making them popular for podcast recordings or webinars.
Blue Yeti
The Blue Yeti is another excellent shotgun mic for podcasters.
Its user-friendly design and intuitive controls make it easy to adjust gain, volume, and select the appropriate recording pattern for your specific needs.
It has multiple recording patterns, including cardioid, bidirectional, omnidirectional, and stereo, giving you the flexibility to adapt to different recording situations.
The microphone features a built-in headphone jack with zero-latency monitoring, allowing you to hear your voice in real-time without any distracting delays
Rode Wireless Go
Lastly, the Rode Wireless Go is a compact and wireless condenser mic.
Condenser microphones are similar to shotgun microphones, with a couple of nuances.
Condenser mics are often preferred in controlled studio environments, where there is less background noise.
They are great at capturing clean and detailed audio in these settings.
Shotgun microphones, on the other hand, are commonly used in outdoor or dynamic environments, where they help reject unwanted noise from the sides and focus on capturing sound from a specific direction.
The Wireless GO is a versatile system that can be used in various recording scenarios. It is compatible with cameras, smartphones, tablets, and other devices with a 3.5mm microphone input. This versatility allows for a wide range of applications, including video production, interviews, vlogging, livestreaming, and more.
Lighting Equipment
The next element of your YouTube starter kit is your lighting equipment.
When it comes to lighting equipment for filming, there are several options available to cater to different needs and budgets.
RALENO Softbox lights
Softbox lights, priced between $50 and $300, are a popular choice.
They provide soft and diffused lighting, resulting in a flattering effect.
Additionally, softbox lights reduce harsh shadows and minimize glare to create a well-lit and professional-looking scene.
Ring lights, ranging from $20 to $200, are another versatile lighting option.
These circular light sources produce even and shadowless lighting, making them ideal for capturing a halo-like effect in the subject's eyes.
With adjustable brightness levels, you have control over the intensity of the lighting, allowing them to achieve the desired look and mood for their videos.
For a compact and versatile lighting solution, LED panel lights are an excellent choice.
Priced between $50 and $500, these lights provide consistent and adjustable lighting across a wide area.
LED panels offer various mounting options, making it easy to place and adjust them according to specific filming needs. Whether illuminating a larger space or focusing the light on a subject, LED panel lights provide reliable and customizable lighting for those who require flexibility.
Umbrella lights, priced between $30 and $150, are reflective umbrellas that soften and spread light.
They are easy to set up and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor filming environments.
Whether used as the primary light source or as supplementary lighting, umbrella lights offer a practical and cost-effective option for those looking to enhance their video quality.
Natural light
Utilizing natural light is another option that comes at no cost. Natural light offers a natural and authentic look, enhancing the overall visual aesthetic. However, it is not as reliable as artificial light.
By utilizing natural light effectively, you can achieve a professional looking and great results in your videos.
Tripods and Camera Accessories
The last components of your YouTube starter kit are a tripod and other camera accessories.
Manfrotto MT190XPRO4
The Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 is a highly reliable tripod known for its stability and durability.
It features a 90-degree center column mechanism, allowing for flexible shooting angles, and a Quick Power Lock system for fast and secure setup.
By simply extending and rotating the center column, you gain unmatched flexibility in capturing shots from various angles, including low-level macro photography or overhead shots.
With a maximum load capacity of up to 7 kg (15.4 lbs), it can support a wide range of camera setups and accessories.
DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer
The DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer is a great choice for those who film on their smartphone.
Gimbals allow for smooth tracking shots, where the camera can follow a subject's movement while maintaining stability. This stability results in smoother and more professional-looking videos or photos.
Gimbals are often lightweight and portable, making them ideal for cooking videos. You can easily move around the kitchen, capturing different angles and shots without the need for bulky equipment.
Benro Aero 4 Video Travel Angel Tripod Kit
If you need a lightweight and portable option, the Benro Aero 4 Video Travel Angel Tripod Kit is an excellent choice.
Designed for travel and outdoor filming, it combines a tripod and a fluid video head.
With a removable center column for low-angle shots and a maximum load capacity of 4 kilograms, it offers versatility and stability on the go.
Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB
The Vanguard Alta Pro 263AB is a versatile tripod that offers multi-angle positioning.
Its central column can be adjusted to various angles, allowing for flexible shooting perspectives.
It features quick-flip leg locks, a sturdy build, and a maximum load capacity of 7 kilograms.
This tripod is suitable for a wide range of filming needs.
Other YouTube Accessories
Another key component of your YouTube starter kit that isn't equipment, is editing software. Check out this article on video editing software to get an idea of what programs are available to you and which might be right for you.
Since you made it this far, you might be interested in The Kerrminator's digital YouTube Starter Kit. The kit includes a video description template, thumbnail templates, channel banner templates, social media graphics, a closed captioning guide, and additional social media content guide. All the digital bits and pieces you need to get your videos posted and shared.
Spend less time worrying about figuring out all the little details that can prevent or slow down the launch of a new YouTube channel and grab your digital kit now.
Conclusion
Starting a YouTube channel as a dietitian can provide you with a platform to educate and grow your brand.
By investing in high-quality equipment like cameras, microphones, lighting, and editing software, you can create engaging and professional videos that resonate with your audience.
Growing on YouTube is challenging. Remember to focus on your content, deliver it authentically, and engage with your viewers to build a loyal community.
About the author
Wan Na is a registered dietitian and personal trainer. As a home-cook, she shares how to create nutrient-forward recipes that are flavorful and delicious on her YouTube channel (@onepotwellness) and blog (www.onepotwellness.com). She loves one-pot wonders, tropical fruits, and the smell of freshly roasted coffee beans.
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