The Best Video Equipment For Beginners

Work to run a smooth operation with the best video equipment as a beginner filmmaker.

When it comes to creating great content, you need the best video equipment to help you get there. As beginners, knowing the ins and outs of the production process is incredibly important and with the three phases of pre-, mid-, and post-production covered, you can better create, film, and edit the best product possible.

However, beginners don’t know where to start. We often look to those big Hollywood blockbusters, but the truth is, they are very much different than what we as beginners can do. Those film sets are elaborate with millions of dollars on the line. The equipment is top tier and the cast and crew have years of experience under their belts. And while we would love to have all that, we just aren’t quite there.

That isn’t to say a beginner can’t create something spectacular. With the best video equipment, someone just starting out is one step closer to running a smooth operation and organizing a well-run film set. For those wondering just what equipment is needed to start out, we have all the answers so you can get started right away without having to find a production company.

Let’s take a look at the best video equipment for beginners so you can see just what it takes and just what you need to make the best content possible. You don’t need a Hollywood budget to create something unique, it just takes the right planning and video equipment, so the quality is high and the final product is flawless.

Best Video Equipment For Beginners

When it comes to beginner filmmakers and their ability to produce the best content possible, having the right equipment is an absolute necessity. The best video equipment will allow you the chance to create amazing content, run a smooth operation and set, and edit to create the best final product around.

1. Camera & Lenses

Your camera is obviously the most important piece of equipment and as a visual medium, finding a quality camera is a must. While cameras can get expensive, companies allow you to rent these out if that is an option you need. But there are reasonably priced cameras, and if you plan to use them for a long time, the right camera will last you years with proper care.

The right lens will allow for a variety of shots so you can capture everything you need. Certain lenses have different perspectives and a wider shot will require a different lens as opposed to a more close one. Over time, you can build up your repertoire of lenses, but to start, think about what shots you may want and narrow down one or two specific lenses.

2. Tripod, Gimble & Other Rigs

You want something to put the camera on for a smoother, more clean shot. Something like a tripod allows for those stationary shots and stability, but a gimble and other rigs, like a chest harness, allow you to get various angles and movements so your film is more dynamic. You will find as you go having a complete set of rigs will pay off in the long run.

3. Plenty Of Batteries

The worst thing that can happen is that your camera dies mid-shoot. Making sure you have plenty of batteries allows for easy recharging and can better set you up for a more seamless and well-organized shoot. Keeping them charged is important and having a few to pull from will alleviate the stress of an unnecessary, and unwanted, charging break.

4. Memory Cards

Memory cards are equally as important as batteries. You’ve filmed the project, now you have to save it. Keeping your memory cards organized and free of space will give you the best chance at not losing material and always having an empty one ready to capture more content. You can never have too many memory cards as long as they stay organized.

5. Microphones

If your video requires sound, microphones are a must. This can be one on the camera, lav mics that are suited up to actors or whoever is on camera, or something like a boom pole to get more sound than an individual mic. Putting these mics in the best places will eliminate outside noise and ruffling on clothes so once you get to the post-production phase, you won’t have any issues with sound.

6. Lights

Unless you are planning to shoot with natural light, proper lighting is a must. A reflector or diffuser can help greatly but having quality lights and the right camera settings to adjust for light is something that will make your project really pop. You don’t have to go crazy with lighting, but just have enough so your project doesn’t turn out too dark.

7. Editing Software

For those post-production needs, the right editing software is an absolute must. A lot of that so-called “movie magic” happens in the post-production phase and with the right software, you can correct any potential mistakes and work to edit your project into a masterpiece. When it comes to sound effects, music, lining up dialogue, and any other miscellaneous effects, the right editing software is exactly what you need.

8. Bags & Storage

This may go without saying, but with expensive equipment comes the need for proper storage. High-quality camera bags, durable lens boxes, and top tier storage equipment is a must and without it, you run the risk of damaging equipment. Do yourself a favor and work to get the best storage possible for your gear.

Wrap Up

Finding the best video equipment for beginners may seem challenging, but it is anything but that. Knowing what to look for and how best to tackle it will prove to effective in the long run and will set you up as you produce bigger and bigger projects. Taking care of the equipment, knowing how to use it, and executing your vision takes time but with the best equipment, you are just one step closer to creating and finishing a fantastic final product.