So what are the best tools to use for vlogging, video calls, podcasts or shooting mobile videos? We’ve compiled a list here of some of the tools we use regularly.
“It often comes up in conversations with clients, friends and family about what gear should they be using to make high-quality videos, podcasts or for video calls.
With my background in commercial audio-visual I’ve a lot of experience using, selling and promoting a lot of the premium brands. Technology has evolved a lot in recent years with the mobile device so here’s my take on what is affordable and achievable for most users, whatever their budget.”
Nick Spalding, Director
We’ve written many blogs on the importance of stability with your images/videos if you want to add professionalism. And of course the larger the product you’re shooting with, the larger the tripod you’ll need. We favour Manfrotto stands when we’re using DSLR or larger but for mobile phone/device work….
For us the Joby Gorillapod is a game-changer because of it’s mounting flexibility. It’s great for shooting video on your phone on the fly, in your hand, at your desk, whilst out running, anywhere.
Works in portrait (TikTok, Insta) and Landscape (everything else). It won’t break your bank and it fits literally anywhere.
And we can report, customer service is absolutely top notch. We had the misfortune of a failed part on one of our GripTight Pro 2 phone holders, we called them up, sent them proof of purchase, and a replacment arrived the very next day, without question or delay.
Go buy one today, you won’t regret it, they are a fab, fun and pro product, all at the same time.
It comes with all the software you need to plug-in, play, speak and record…and it doesn’t take up too much space on your desk.
This version, the 2i2, allows you to plug in two separate microphones, (so fab for podcasts) and it works with Zoom etc straight out of the box, taking the quality of your audio on video calls instantly higher.
OK, there are a lot of microphones launched recently designed to look cool for Vlogging/Podcasting but do they really sound great?
If you pick anything from Shure, Sennheiser, AKG or Audio-Technica you can’t really go wrong but we love and use these beauties from RODE, they sound fabulous.
With High Pass Filter, HF boost as standard and a -10dB button if you’re overloading the audio, these are perfect for voice overs, video calls, podcasts on location or in your office.
You or your listeners won’t be disappointed.
We use these in our office and can’t really get over the value for money they represent. We’ve also used a lot of Neewer C-stands for video/photography lighting and the quality is really good for the money.
If you want studio quality sound, you have to isolate your microphone, mounting it on a stand like this from all the noise it will pick up from your desk (vibrations, hums, clicks) . This is a great product to help you with this and it won’t break the bank.
It is also really flexible so can be mounted anywhere and allows you to point the microphone where you need it. The pop-screen included also stops you getting too close and overloading the audio.
I have a confession to make here, we own and use two Litepanel 1×1 bi-colour LED ‘s which give a beautiful light, indoors and outdoors. But they are blooming expensive in comparison and if I had my time again I would not make the investment in these but choose a more affordable or hire option.
If you are using the Gorillapod, the JOBY JB01578-BWW Beamo,Mini LED Light for Smartphone and Mirrorless Cameras are great as they fit right on to the Gorillapod.
You will probably also have laughed at the general fuzziness, poor quality or the times half your head or body has gone missing.
This Neewer pop-up green screen changes all that.
It also allows you to use your own corporate backgrounds with confidence.
Here’s a video from our friend Toby showing you just the difference it will make – watch here.
