As a professional videographer, the equipment you need can vary depending on the type of project you are working on, but some essential pieces of equipment include:
Camera:
As a professional videographer, you’ll need a high-quality camera that can capture high-resolution video with good dynamic range and color depth. Depending on your specific needs, you may choose a DSLR or mirrorless camera, which offer interchangeable lenses and manual controls, or a cinema camera, which is designed specifically for video production and offers more advanced features such as RAW video recording.
Lenses:
Lenses are an essential part of any camera system and can greatly affect the look and feel of your footage. Wide-angle lenses are great for capturing landscapes and establishing shots, while telephoto lenses are useful for capturing close-ups and details. Zoom lenses offer flexibility and versatility, while prime lenses offer wider apertures for shallower depth-of-field and better low-light performance.
Tripod:
A tripod stabilises your camera and prevents it from shaking or moving during the shoot. It’s essential for getting stable shots, especially for longer shots or shots that require slow pans or tilt camera movement.
Lighting:
Good lighting is essential for creating high-quality video footage. Studio lights are useful for indoor shoots, while portable LED lights are great for outdoor shoots or run-and-gun shooting.
Light modifiers:
These are tools that modify the light from your lights, such as softboxes, umbrellas, diffusers, and gels. to modify the quality and direction of light. They are commonly used to soften harsh light or to create more directional, focused light. There are many different types of light modifiers available, each with its own unique characteristics and uses.
Reflectors:
Reflectors are a useful tool for bouncing light onto your subject and filling in shadows. They come in various shapes and sizes and can be used to create a more natural-looking lighting setup.
Audio equipment:
Good audio is just as important as good video, and a high-quality microphone is essential for capturing clear and accurate sound. A lavalier microphone can be clipped to the subject’s clothing, while a shotgun microphone is useful for capturing sound from a distance.
Headphones:
A pair of headphones is essential for monitoring your audio while shooting. They allow you to hear any issues with the sound and make adjustments as needed.
Filters:
Filters are useful for modifying the look of your footage or improving its quality. ND filters can reduce the amount of light entering the camera, allowing you to shoot with wider apertures in bright sunlight. Polarizers can reduce glare and improve contrast, while UV filters protect your lens from scratches and other damage.
External monitor:
An external monitor is a useful tool for checking focus and framing your shots. It provides a larger and more detailed view of your footage than the camera’s built-in screen.
Cables and memory cards:
You’ll need various cables to connect your equipment, such as HDMI, USB, and power cables. Memory cards are used to store your footage
Other equipment that is useful for a videographer
There are several other pieces of equipment that can be useful for a videographer, depending on your specific needs:
Jib/Crane:
A jib or crane is a device that allows you to move your camera up and down, or side to side, in a smooth and controlled manner. They are useful for creating sweeping camera movements or getting unique perspectives.
Slider:
A slider is a tool that allows you to move your camera smoothly along a track, creating smooth tracking shots or adding motion to static shots.
Steadicam:
A Steadicam is a device that allows you to move your camera smoothly and steadily while walking or running, without the need for a tripod or gimbal. They are useful for getting smooth and steady footage in fast-paced or dynamic situations.
Wireless transmitter and receiver:
A wireless transmitter and receiver allow you to wirelessly transmit audio or video signals from one device to another. They are useful for capturing audio from a distance or transmitting a video signal to a remote monitor or recording device.
Portable power bank:
A portable power bank is a useful tool for keeping your equipment powered up while on location, especially if you’re shooting in remote or outdoor locations.
Backup hard drive:
A backup hard drive is a useful tool for backing up your footage and ensuring that you don’t lose any important files in case of a computer failure or other issue.
Editing software:
Editing software is essential for post-production work and allows you to edit, color correct, and add effects to your footage. There are many different options available, ranging from basic free software to more advanced and expensive options.
Laptop or desktop computer:
A powerful computer is essential for editing and rendering your footage. You’ll need a computer with sufficient processing power and memory to handle large video files and run editing software smoothly.
Green screen:
A green screen is a useful tool for creating special effects or compositing footage. It allows you to shoot your subject against a green background and then replace the background with another image or video in post-production.
Camera bag or case:
A camera bag or case is a useful tool for protecting your equipment and keeping it organized while on the go. There are many different options available, ranging from simple camera bags to larger cases that can hold multiple cameras and lenses.
Drone:
Drones allow you to capture stunning aerial shots that would be impossible to get with a traditional camera setup. They are especially useful for capturing landscapes, cityscapes, or large outdoor events.
Field recorder:
A dedicated audio recorder can provide higher quality audio than the camera’s built-in microphone. It’s especially useful for capturing dialogue or other critical sound.
Monopod:
A monopod is similar to a tripod, but with only one leg. It’s a useful alternative for situations where you need to move around quickly, such as events or run-and-gun shooting.
Gimbal/Stabilizer:
A gimbal or stabilizer is a device that holds your camera steady while you move it, allowing you to get smooth, steady shots even while walking or running. They are especially useful for shooting with smaller cameras, such as mirrorless or action cameras.
North Coast NSW & SE Queensland Videographer 