Equipment
In this lesson, we cover the essential equipment required for video recording and production. We discuss the importance of proper equipment for achieving high-quality images efficiently, focusing on lighting setups such as three-point lighting and options for LED versus fluorescent lights. We explore accessories like stands, diffusers, reflectors, and clips, crucial for managing light sources effectively. Sound equipment is also addressed, including microphone types and their suitability for various recording scenarios. Tripods and camera mounts are discussed for stable recording setups, and insights into selecting backdrops are provided. Additionally, we emphasize the importance of memory management, stressing the need for sufficient storage space and external memory for video production. Throughout, practical tips and recommendations are offered to assist learners in assembling their recording and production setups efficiently
Now that you have an idea of the image you need to achieve, let’s discuss the equipment. There are many different sets of equipment you can have. Of course, better equipment leads to a better image, and you save more time with proper equipment. For example, in my setup, I have everything necessary just to press the On button, and my setup is ready for recording. I just need to have the script and my look ready. That is what you should strive for. The most time we usually spend on preparation. Proper equipment saves you this time.
Lights
From the previous videos, you have learned that you need a three-point lighting setup for professionally-looking videos. Depending on the image you want to achieve, you need to decide what lights to use. If you want to have a dramatic look where most of the light comes from the Key light and the Fill light is not very intensive, then one intensive light source will work for you with a reflector on the other side to fill in the shadows. If you want to have a standard setup, you need two light sources for your face and some light for your back. To manage these sources of light, you need to have:
- Stands
- Diffusers
- Reflectors
- Sometimes even absorption of the light
- You might need clips to hold different tools.
Let’s start with the light source!
The Light Source
When purchasing lights, you need to decide between LED and fluorescent lights. To understand the differences, let’s go through each feature of the light and see the differences.
Lighting Equipment Comparison Table
| Feature | LED Lights | Fluorescent Lights |
| Heat | Generates less heat | Can generate significant heat |
| Power Consumption | Generally lower power consumption | Typically higher power consumption |
| Cost | Initial investment may be higher | Bulbs are typically cheaper, but fixtures can be more expensive |
| Flicker | Generally flicker-free | May exhibit flicker, especially at lower frequencies |
| Weight | Lightweight and portable | Can be heavier and bulkier |
| Size | Compact and versatile | Bulky and may require larger fixtures |
| Color Temperature | Can be adjusted easily | Limited range and adjustment options |
| Light Direction | Directional or adjustable | Generally omnidirectional |
| Light Stand | Typically compatible with standard light stands | May require specialized stands or mounting systems |
| CRI (Color Rendering Index) | High CRI options available | CRI can vary, may not always be as high as LED options |
| Lifespan | Generally longer lifespan | Shorter lifespan compared to LEDs |
| Portability | Lightweight and easy to transport | Bulkier and less portable |
| Durability | More durable due to solid-state construction | More fragile due to glass tubes |
| Color Consistency | Maintain consistent color over time | Color temperature may shift with age |
| Environmental Impact | More energy-efficient and eco-friendly | Less energy-efficient and may contain hazardous materials |
Your decision to purchase must be based on your budget, desired outcome, space, mobility, security, and many other factors.
Light Stands and Mounts
There is a great choice of stands and mounts, and you will most probably not manage the light without them. Ensure that the height of your light will be at the level you need. It has to be slightly above your eyes or head. If you plan to record videos standing, you will need a higher stand. If not, you don’t.
Soft Boxes, Diffusers, Umbrellas, Reflectors
The best picture, but the most expensive setup, would be having the soft box, but it’s quite pricey. Note that fluorescent bulbs are heating, so there should be some airflow in the softbox, and it has to be of good quality. The surface of the softbox should be large. So you can’t buy a $50 softbox; it is simply a 15” toy. Your softbox should be a minimum of 24 inches to 36 inches (60 cm to 90 cm) for the key light. So if you can afford it – have it. If you can’t, you will need to manage with less expensive materials. My choice is umbrellas. I have an LCD (Aputure Amaran AL-HR672W LED), 2 light stands, and 2 fill lights (One Ring), which I don’t use for the course, but I will definitely use for the Reels and YouTube, because it is all about the first impression. I use additional instruments like hooks to place the lights.
Sound
Depending on what you want to do with your microphone, you may also choose different types of microphones. I will explain to you what features you have to consider. We will review the following types: Lavalier, Shotgun, and Tabletop Here I have a comparison table for different types of microphones (Lavalier, Shotgun, and Tabletop)
Sound Equipment Comparison Table
| Feature | Lavalier Microphone | Shotgun Microphone | Tabletop Microphone |
| Size | Small and discreet | Medium-sized, elongated design | Typically larger and more visible |
| Directionality | Omnidirectional or cardioid | Highly directional (supercardioid or hypercardioid) | Omnidirectional or boundary effect |
| Mounting | Clips onto clothing or body | Typically mounted on a boom pole | Placed on a tabletop or flat surface |
| Portability | Highly portable due to small size | Requires additional accessories for mounting | Generally less portable due to size |
| Wind Protection | May require additional windscreen or foam cover | Often includes built-in wind protection or requires separate windscreen | Often includes built-in wind protection or requires separate windscreen |
| Handling Noise | Susceptible to handling noise | Generally less susceptible due to shock mounts | Minimal handling noise due to stable placement |
| Coverage Area | Suitable for close-range recording | Suitable for medium to long-range recording | Suitable for conference rooms or roundtable discussions |
| Price | Generally affordable | Can range from moderate to high | Can range from moderate to high |
| Power Source | Often battery-powered or powered by recording device | Generally requires phantom power or battery | Often powered by USB or external power source |
| Frequency Response | Typically wide frequency range | Wide frequency range for capturing distant sound | Wide frequency range for capturing sound from all directions |
| Sensitivity | Moderate to high | Moderate to high | Moderate to high |
| Durability | Generally moderate | Moderate to high | Moderate to high |
| Condenser or Dynamic | Both types available | Both types available | Both types available |
Here’s a simplified explanation covering the specified features of different microphones:
Vocabulary – Microphones
- Cardioid Microphone: A cardioid microphone picks up sound primarily from the front while minimizing noise from the sides and rear. It’s ideal for capturing clear audio from a specific direction, making it great for solo vocals or interviews where background noise needs to be reduced.
- Omnidirectional Microphone: An omnidirectional microphone captures sound from all directions, providing a more natural and immersive recording. It’s suitable for capturing ambient sounds, group discussions, or situations where you want to capture sound from all around.
- Shock Mounts: Shock mounts are accessories that suspend the microphone to isolate it from vibrations and handling noise. They help prevent unwanted noise from being picked up during recording, resulting in cleaner audio.
- Wind Protection: Wind protection accessories, such as foam windscreens or furry windshields, help reduce wind noise when recording outdoors or in windy environments. They’re essential for ensuring clear and distortion-free audio in challenging conditions.
- Connectivity Options (USB, 3.5 Jack, XLR): Microphones can connect to recording devices via different interfaces. USB microphones plug directly into computers or smartphones, making them convenient for digital recording. Microphones with 3.5mm (1/8 inch) jacks are compatible with cameras, smartphones, and audio interfaces. XLR microphones require an XLR cable and are commonly used in professional audio setups for their balanced signal transmission and reliability.
- Frequency Range: The frequency range of a microphone determines the range of frequencies it can capture. It describes how evenly and accurately a microphone can pick up sounds across the audible frequency spectrum, which typically ranges from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz) for human hearing.
A wider frequency range allows the microphone to capture more detail in the audio, from deep bass tones to high-frequency sounds like cymbals or vocal sibilance. The human voice generally falls within the mid-range frequencies, typically between 85 Hz to 255 Hz for male voices and 165 Hz to 255 Hz for female voices - Frequency Response refers to the range of frequencies that a microphone can accurately capture and reproduce. It describes how evenly and accurately a microphone can pick up sounds across the audible frequency spectrum, which typically ranges from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz (20 kHz) for human hearing.
- Condenser Microphone: Condenser microphones are known for their sensitivity and clarity. They’re great for capturing subtle details and nuances in vocals and instruments, making them popular for studio recording and broadcasting.
- Dynamic Microphone: Dynamic microphones are rugged and versatile, making them suitable for live performances and recording loud sound sources. They’re less sensitive than condenser microphones but can handle high sound pressure levels with ease, making them ideal for stage use and outdoor recording.
Understanding these features will help you choose the right microphone for your recording needs, whether you’re capturing vocals, instruments, podcasts, or field recordings.
Tripods and Camera Mounts
Affordable tripods are usually up to 120 – 150 cm. The longer and more stable the tripod, the more expensive it is. Also important is the camera mount. This head has to be able to hold your phone.
Backdrops
You can buy a backdrop in any shop that sells fabric; you don’t need to have a professional backdrop, but you can.
- Color: Even color, no patterns, avoid green and blue.
- Surface: Matte surface, no reflections.
- Density: Thicker fabric to avoid waves or wrinkles.
- Weight: Lightweight for easy handling.
- Dimensions: Minimum 200 cm x 150 cm What to look for: List placement
Let’s see in details on what to look for:
- Color: Choose a backdrop with an even color, preferably without patterns. Avoid green and blue colors to prevent interference with chroma keying (green screen or blue screen) if not using those techniques.
- Surface: Opt for a matte surface to minimize reflections. Avoid any fabrics with a glossy or reflective finish.
- Density: Select a fabric with a thicker density to prevent waves or wrinkles from showing up on camera. This ensures a smooth and professional-looking background.
- Weight: Choose a backdrop that is not too heavy for easy handling and setup. Lightweight materials are easier to transport and manipulate during filming sessions.
- Dimensions: Aim for a minimum size of 200 cm (height) x 150 cm (width) to provide sufficient coverage for your filming area. This size allows for flexibility in framing and composition while accommodating different shooting setups.
Memory Management
You will require enough free space to work with your videos. It is preferable to have space on your phone at least 5GB (10GB recommended) and have external memory to transfer your video for further production.
- MicroSD card or SD card (for camera)
- Memory stick or HDD (USB 3 – USB 3.2 connection)