Are you looking to start a youtube channel in 2023?
But still not sure where to start & which equipment you should buy?
Now, these days YouTube has become more popular, people are preferring to watch videos rather than read full-fledged written content.
A few years back, you don’t need to spend on equipment on your initial days but for now, due to competition, it’s a must to invest in gears that help you to improve your video quality.
YouTube has grown to become the most popular and largest platform for sharing video content on the internet. It’s also a fantastic method for people to express their creativity, earn some additional cash, advertise themselves or their businesses, and potentially even become a huge “Internet famous” celebrity.
If you’re thinking about becoming a professional YouTuber, there are a few things you’ll need to get ready, the most significant of which is your video equipment. It’s not as simple as it appears to make high-quality YouTube videos. Fortunately, you don’t need a lot of technical knowledge to create a video that people will love watching—all you need is the correct tools.
What You’ll Need to Start a YouTube Channel: What Equipment Do You Need?
You could certainly get away with just a smartphone if you have a terrific personality and truly unique and outstanding material. Keep in mind, however, that YouTube has become a very competitive arena, and as a newbie, it’s best to put some effort into the visual quality of your films in order to obtain views and subscribers.
Many well-known YouTubers utilize a variety of sophisticated video production equipment to create their videos (some even hire professional video editors and camera operators), but you don’t have to go that far. The following is a list of the fundamental video production equipment you’ll need to get your YouTube channel up and running:
- Camera
- Microphone
- Tripod or Gimbal Stabilizer
- Lighting
- Video Editing Software
1. CAMERA
The camera is, without a doubt, the most critical piece of equipment to have. But, before you go to the camera store, keep in mind that you don’t have to get the most expensive DSLR—you can record high-quality (at least 1080p) video with almost anything.
If you’re just getting started, quality camcorders or webcams will suffice, but DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are a fantastic investment for when you’re ready to upgrade. Keep in mind that the sort of camera you should get is highly dependent on the type of Youtube content you want to make. You have the option of using any of the cameras listed below.
- Camcorders
Because camcorders are primarily built to record videos, they are obviously a wonderful option for making YouTube material. Furthermore, modern camcorders are small, lightweight, reasonably priced, and constructed to handle practically any shooting situation—you may use them to make a video at home or for vlogging on the move.
If you want a budget-friendly full HD camera with image stabilization to prevent shaking and blurring when shooting handheld, the Sony HDRCX405 Camcorder ($229.99) is a solid choice. It has a Carl Zeiss zoom lens with 27x true optical zoom for lossless magnification and outstanding overall video quality, and it can capture high-definition 1080p films at 60 frames per second. Uploading videos will also be a breeze, as this camcorder records in MP4 format, allowing you to upload them to the web immediately.
- Webcams
Webcams are the greatest option for people looking for an inexpensive, plug-and-play video camera, particularly for those who need to record in front of their PCs, such as gaming YouTubers. Because webcams may be directly connected to your computer, they make live broadcasting easy.
The Logitech C920 HD Pro (), which has full HD 1080p and 720p video recording capabilities, is a good camera for making YouTube videos. It’s also ideal for individuals who want to record while playing computer games, as the C920 encodes videos using its own processor rather than relying heavily on (and slowing down) your computer’s processing power.
- Action cameras
Action cameras are noted for being the smallest and most adaptable cameras available. They’re perfect for adventurous photographers and videographers who wish to record first-person perspectives of their journeys or extreme sports exploits. Many of them can generate the highest quality videos conceivable today, despite their small size, which is why many YouTubers employ action cameras for video quality and durability.
GoPro is arguably the best and most trusted action camera brand, and one of their most recent models, the GoPro Hero6, is one of our favorites (). If you’re unfamiliar with this popular camera, it can capture 4K movies at 60 frames per second, has a touchscreen display, built-in voice control, and is waterproof (up to 10 meters underwater).
- DSLR
YouTubers choose DSLRs because of their high-quality outcomes. They are a good choice for making Youtube content because of their versatility in low light circumstances and polished video recording quality. DSLRs are an investment worth making if you want to take videography (and photography) seriously.
The Canon EOS Rebel T5i is the DSLR camera we recommend for making YouTube videos (). One reason is that it is appropriate for both newcomers and seasoned YouTube content makers. It boasts a touch-screen display, can record 1080p movies, and supports Movie Servo for continuous focus tracking, which keeps you in focus even as you walk about in front of the camera.
2. EXTERNAL MICROPHONES
Keep in mind that your audio should match the quality of your video. Even if you record high-quality cinema 4K footage, if the audio is bad, you’ll have difficulties keeping your viewers interested. Because built-in laptop or camera microphones are unable to adequately record or reduce ambient sounds, the next most crucial equipment to have for making Youtu videos is a separate microphone.
- USB microphone
USB microphones have gone from being completely unknown to becoming a popular choice among YouTubers. Because of their ease of use and sound quality, as well as their variety and cost, these mics have earned their place.
The Logitech ClearChat H390 () is an excellent microphone headset for YouTube video production since it is simple to use and produces clear crisp audio. After putting it into your computer as a USB mic headset, you may immediately begin recording. It also features a noise cancellation technology, which lowers unwanted noise in your music.
- Condenser microphone
The Audio-Technica AT2020USB Plus is another excellent USB microphone (). This condenser microphone doesn’t require a pre-amp and features a built-in headphone port with volume control for self-monitoring. It also has mix control, allowing you to blend microphone and pre-recorded sounds. As is the case with many high-end condenser mics.
- Shotgun microphones
For video recording with a compact, professional camera, shotgun mics are a common, high-quality solution. Shock mounts are already built in to assist decrease noise caused by mechanical vibrations around the mic. Another noteworthy characteristic is its capacity to concentrate on collecting crisp sounds and vocals immediately in front of it, rather than picking up ambient sounds from the sides.
I suggest the Rode Microphones VideoMic Pro R (), which is a compact version that’s ideal for your DSLR, mirror less camera, or camcorder. It boasts a super-cardioid polar pattern system and can last up to 70 hours when fueled by 9V batteries.
- Lapel microphones
A lavalier mic, often known as a lapel mic, is a wireless microphone that may be discreetly hooked into your garments or belt. The transmitter, to which the lapel is connected, and the receiver, which can pick up the signal from the transmitter even from long distances, come in a set.
The RODELink Digital Wireless System () is a great option because it contains a 3/8-inch thread for mounting on tripods and supports, a normal shoe mount for cameras, and a clip for belts and clothing. Even from a hundred meters distant, it can select the optimal signal to produce audio that is as stable as cabled connections.
Also check out: Best Headphones Under 1000
3. TRIPOD OR GIMBAL STABILIZER
Unstable footage is a no-no in professional video production since it can cause viewers to get distracted or dizzy. Stabilizing your images and movies is easy with tripods and gimbal stabilisers. You can use one of these to improve the production value of your YouTube videos, depending on how you’ll be recording them.
- Tripod
A tripod is usually the more cost-effective option. Depending on the weight of your camera system, many of them don’t cost more than $100 and still perform admirably. However, to protect the safety of your camera equipment, you need to invest in a sturdier, more durable tripod that can last a long time.
The iKan E-Image EG01A2 () is a high-quality, low-cost tripod that can support most DSLRs and camcorders. It can hold up to 11 pounds and stretch its legs up to 5 feet, allowing you to photograph from unusual vantage positions. It’s also extremely convenient and compact, collapsing to 33 inches and weighing only 10 pounds, making it simple to pack and carry when you’re on the go.
- Gimbal stabilizer
Handheld shooting, no matter how steady you try to hold the camera, will result in unsteady and jarring videos. Gimbals are specialized stabilisers that use motors or weights to properly balance your camera and smooth out your films, even if you make large, abrupt movements on purpose. This is especially useful for YouTubers who use small cameras like GoPros and are constantly on the move.
If you’re intending to employ lightweight mirrorless and action cameras, the iKan FLY X3-Plus Gimbal Stabilizer () is ideal. It contains a 3-axis stabiliser system with brushless motors that can smooth out your camera movements and will last up to 5 hours on a single charge. It’s a terrific investment for a motorized gimbal that’s well worth the money.
4. LIGHTING
If you’re recording largely indoors and in dimly lit environments, you’ll need lighting equipment. Level if you’re filming in an environment with plenty of natural light, lighting equipment can help you change the ambiance and even out the brightness of your setup. The sorts of lighting equipment you can use to record your YouTube videos are listed below.
- Softbox
Softboxes can mimic the gentle, natural illumination that comes from a window. This is owing to the white diffusion panel, which diffuses harsh, direct light and reduces its intensity. If you want to add illumination to a scene or subject without causing harsh shadows, this type of lighting equipment is appropriate.
For example, the Flashpoint SoftBox () comes with a 70W fluorescent light unit and an AC connector, allowing you to plug it in and use it immediately away after putting it up. The gear works with both camcorders and digital cameras and is ideal for doing interviews with indoor subjects.
- Umbrella lights
For video producers who require soft lighting, umbrella lights are a cost-effective and portable option. Umbrellas produce more controlled lighting than softboxes because the light is reflected off the umbrella’s silver internal layer. It doesn’t come with a diffusing sheet, but it can cover a large area. They’re perfect for on-location shoots and backdrops.
We recommend the Westcott 7-Foot Parabolic Umbrella with Flashpoint Streaklight Umbrella Reflector Kit (), which includes everything you’ll need for improved lighting both indoors and out. The robust 16 fiberglass ribs on the 7mm tapered umbrella shaft tip can be readily adjusted to emit appealing lighting. It can also be stored in its tiny carry case, which is made of hefty nitrile rubber.
- Ring light
Among vloggers, ring lights are a popular choice. When its ring form shines light all around a subject, it eliminates shadows from all sides, making anyone in front of the camera appear more appealing. This is why beauty and cosmetic vloggers frequently utilise this type of lighting equipment because it can brilliantly brighten up the face and reduce shadows that tend to showcase imperfections.
The Flashpoint 19 Kit is our pick for a ring light (). This fluorescent ring light utilises 80W of power and produces less heat, allowing it to be placed closer to the subject. Its 19-inch diameter construction is also exceedingly light and portable. If you’re shooting videos that require close-ups of people’s faces, the Flashpoint 19 is the camera to use.
5. VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE
You’ll also need to select a solid video editing software for post-production once you’ve purchased all of the necessary hardware. Although YouTube provides its own video editor, having your own program will give you more power to customize your video to your preference.
For videographers in general, Adobe Premiere Elements 2021 () is a popular choice. Coming from the top video editing software program in the industry, it ensures very usable tools and a wide range of editing options (such as video trimming, freeze frames, bounce-back effects, animations, and more) so you can turn your footage into professional-quality videos that your viewers will love—and possibly subscribe to your channel.