I tend to get this question a lot so I figured it would be best to write a post about all of my favorite filming equipment!
My number 1 most used and recommended camera for filming is the Canon G7X, especially if you’re just starting out.
I have the Mark II version, but there is a newer Mark III.
It is pretty user friendly, light weight, and great for vlogging. It also features a a flip up screen which allows you to see yourself while filming. This is amazing especially if you’re not completely comfortable talking to a camera.
I mentioned it being great for vlogging, but it also works decently well for filming sit down videos.
Aside from video it also takes really great photos. The highest quality you can film is 1080p, but the Mark III is 4K capable.
A couple cons I’ve noticed with the G7X are sometimes with sound quality, and focusing.
If you’re filming at home and there is any background white noise, this camera picks it up. This is slightly annoying if you’re trying to produce high quality content. Normally when I have this issue I will edit it out as much as I can with Final Cut Pro.
Generally to avoid white noise issues in your videos, you would use an external microphone. But the Mark II version does not have the option to connect an external mic, where as the Mark III does. Something to consider when purchasing.
The focusing issue comes about sometimes when filming, where the camera seems to have trouble autofocusing. This then causes the video to be super bright or super dark suddenly. Touching the screen and manually refocusing the camera is a super easy quick fix, but it can sometimes be annoying if you don’t notice right away when filming.
My best and priciest camera, the Canon 90D.
This one is amazing and a bit more complicated to use, but creates stunning videos.
The camera body is a bit heavier so I wouldn’t really recommend this one for vlogging. I use this one mainly for sit down videos. The 90D is able to shoot in 4K up to 60 fps. Since I only use the camera for filming I can’t speak for how it photographs, but it does have great reviews.
I use the 18-135mm lens that came with the camera, and also purchased a 50mm lens, that creates a beautiful blurred background.
This camera also features a flip out screen which was one of the main reasons I purchased it.
Having a screen to look at while filming helps you feel more comfortable in front of the camera but also really helps you make sure everything is in focus, well lit, and in frame.
When using the 50 mm lens, I have to sit a few feet away from the camera so the ability to connect the Canon to my MacBook Air and use it as a monitor to see what I’m filming on a larger screen is also a plus.
With this set up I use an external mic for better audio.
Lastly, one of the easiest (and secretly one of my favorite) ways to film videos is with my iPhone. Yes, really.
I have the latest version, the 13 Pro Max and always upgrade to the latest model because the filming capabilities are so great. This tends to sometimes be my favorite way to film because of how quick easy and convenient it is.
Normally I use the front camera in cinematic mode. This is essentially the “Portrait Mode” for videos. It creates a pretty blurred background and looks amazing. Even better if you’re using the back camera, but like I mentioned I like to see what I am filming so I stick with the front. The cinematic mode is limited to 1080p, but if you switch over to the regular video mode you can shoot 4K video with the front camera.
Also the audio quality is surprisingly pretty good for just being a phone. Another plus is that I can just airdrop my videos right over to my computer to edit them.
If you’re just starting out, you can easily create quality content with just your phone and the right lighting and definitely don’t need a fancy camera right away.
Good lighting goes such a long way when creating videos. I always prefer natural light but that’s not always possible so I purchased this light. It is super bright so I normally use it on a pretty low setting but it works really well.
I believe you can use this with a battery but I opted for the AC Adapter so I have one less thing to worry about charging. I also just have this on a basic tripod.
While I mostly use this for light for filming, its also great for taking photos inside. Here’s a recent example
Filming equipment accessories I also use and love:
This mini ring light. This is great for extra lighting when you need it.
It clips right on to your phone, or G7X screen and lights up your face nicely which is great for vlogging at night, or taking selfies with your phone.
This handheld tripod. I attach my G7X to this as it’s easier and more comfortable to hold for extended periods of time.
I can’t find my exact tripod online but this one is really similar and a great option.
Also, phone mounts are great to have if you’re planning on filming with your phone. They allow you to attach your phone to any tripod. They’re also super easy to lose so get a back up just in case. 🙃
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