If you are a beginner videographer looking to improve your skills and take your work to the next level, you must have the right gear. In today's market, there are many options to choose from, so it can be difficult to know where to start. I remember the first time I shot and edited a video. I used Windows Movie Maker to edit a short video.
Through the years I developed my skills and my gear. And although I'm not yet a full-time professional videographer, I assisted with high-end professional productions through collaborations with production companies.
In this blog post, I will share the best gear for beginner videographers.
Master your craft and develop your skills.
Before we look at specific equipment, let's discuss what it takes to be a professional videographer. While having the right gear is essential, it's not the whole picture. To become a professional videographer, you'll also need to master your craft and develop your skills through practice and experience.
Here are some essential tips for professional videographers:
Study the craft: Knowing the basics of photography and videography is helpful. I started as a nightclub photographer and transitioned to video. Photography helped me understand all aspects of my camera. It also helps me take online courses, read books, and watch tutorials to learn the fundamentals of videography, including lighting, composition, and storytelling.
Practice: Practice as often as you can, experiment with different techniques and styles, and challenge yourself to create engaging and exciting videos.
Collaborate: Work with other videographers, photographers, and creatives to learn from their experiences and share ideas.
Build a portfolio: Build a portfolio of your finest work to showcase your skills and attract clients.
Now that we've covered the basics let's look at the gear you'll need to get started.
So here's my list of the Best gear for beginner videographers
Camera
The first piece of gear you'll need is a camera. My first camera was a Nikon D3500; now I use the Sony A7 III as my main camera and as a backup camera, I use the Fujifilm XT-3.
While there are many other options on the market, I recommend starting with a DSLR or mirrorless camera that shoots in 4K. Some of the most desirable options for beginner videographers include the Canon EOS R6 and Panasonic GH5.
Lens
You'll need a lens for your camera. A good lens is just as important as your camera. The right lens can help you achieve the look and feel you want in your videos. My first Nikon lenses were 50mm and 55-200mm. Now I recommend starting with a versatile zoom lens, such as the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L or the Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS. But for the best-run and gun setup, I recommend the 24-70mm F/2.8. This lens is definitely not cheap, but its versatility makes it worth the investment.
Gimbal
For beginner videographers, gimbals are crucial tools for capturing smooth footage. The DJI RS 3 is a top-tier option, capable of supporting cameras up to 10 lbs and boasting a battery life of up to 12 hours. It features a 3-axis stabilization system, intelligent shooting modes, and advanced autofocus. The Zhiyun Weebill 2 is also a great option, weighing only 2.1 lbs and capable of supporting cameras up to 6.6 lbs. It offers a 3-axis stabilization system, multiple shooting modes, and a 9-hour battery life. Both gimbals provide excellent features and performance for beginners looking to improve their video footage. I've been using the Feiyutech AK2000 gimbal for the past 3 years and it hasn't let me down yet. However, some signs of wear is starting to show so I'm looking to replace it soon.
Tripod
Videographers need tripods. It will help you stabilize your shots and keep your camera steady, which is especially critical when shooting handheld. Look for a tripod that's lightweight and easy to set up, such as the Manfrotto BeFree Advanced.
Lighting
Lighting is one of the most critical factors in creating a professional-looking video. While natural light can work in some situations, it's often not enough to get the look you want. For lighting, I use Godox SL60W lights.
The Godox SL 60W is a powerful LED light designed for photography and videography. It delivers up to 60 watts of power with a color temperature of 5600K and is dimmable from 0-100%. It has a high CRI of 95 and is compatible with the Godox wireless system. It also has a Bowens S-mount for modifiers and a built-in fan for heat dissipation. Overall, it's a versatile and valuable addition to your gear collection.
Microphone
In addition, audio is just as significant as video, and choosing the right microphone can make all the difference. I recommend starting with a shotgun microphone, such as the Rode VideoMic Pro+, which will help you capture clear, directional audio. Another option is the Boya MM1 shotgun mic. This mic is very affordable and delivers great audio quality.
Editing software
Finally, you'll need editing software to bring all of your footage together and create a final product. There are many options on the market. However, some of the better options for beginner videographers include Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro X, and DaVinci Resolve. I've been using Final Cut Pro for 11 years now and although it has some limitations, it is a stable and reliable software.
Bonus tip for best Gear
Drones provide stunning aerial shots for videographers, and for beginners, the DJI Mavic Air 2s, DJI Mavic 3, and DJI Mini 3 Pro are great options. The Mavic Air 2s shoots 5.4K video at 60 frames per second and has a range of up to 12km.It also has obstacle avoidance, active tracking, and advanced camera modes. The Mavic 3 has a larger sensor for better image quality and improved obstacle avoidance. It also has a range of up to 10km and a flight time of up to 46 minutes. The Mini 3 Pro is lightweight and portable, weighing only 242g. It can shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second and has a range of up to 10km. It also has a range of intelligent features, including GPS positioning, automatic takeoff and landing, and precision hovering.
These drones offer excellent features for beginners looking to capture stunning aerial footage.
In conclusion, becoming a professional videographer takes time, dedication, and practice.
By following the tips and investing in the right gear, you'll be well on your way to creating professional-quality videos.
Remember to always keep learning and experimenting, and don't be afraid to take risks and try new things.
You can achieve your goals and become a professional videographer with dedicated work and determination.
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