What Camera & Video Equipment Do You Need to Shoot Video? 

It's not what a movie is about, it's how it is about it. Roger Ebert

What is not to love about film? Have you ever wanted to shoot one?

So, what camera and video equipment do you need to shoot video?

In this article, we will help you to get started with tips about videography with a camera and even notes about the best lens for videography.

To get started in your search for the best videography equipment, you could use a DSLR camera. Keep reading for more tips.

A Camera Bag is Essential

Regardless of your level of ability, when looking to invest in videography equipment for beginners, the first thing you will need a camera bag to protect your gear.  

Instead of having a big one with a lot of memory, that could be lost, remember that it is better to have lots of small ones.

Find out more about the different types of camera for shooting video.

Shopping for the Best Lens for Videography? 

Hybrid and DSLR cameras have interchangeable lenses. These can be useful when filming because you will be able to work with a focal distance of your choosing. There is no single, best lens for videography, but stick to well-known brands like Canon, Nikon and Sony.

Lenses are very important when it comes to videography, but lenses with good apertures are what can make all the difference to image quality. The price of lenses can vary greatly, but depending on the make and model, good lenses can be very expensive.

Bridge and compact cameras have fixed lenses that are not able to be changed. This is something that should be carefully considered when it comes to shopping for the best value in hybrid, DSLR, bridge or compact cameras.

Having different lenses will also give you good options for playing around with focal length, but also depth of field.

Keep Emergency Batteries in Your Camera Bag

So, what camera & video equipment do you need to shoot video?

Apart from your research into the best lens for videography, and investing in good camera accessories for videography, you will need extra batteries for your camera. Filming will drain your battery quickly. Make sure that you charge all your batteries fully the night before your shoot so that you can simply swap them out on a shoot when you need to.

There are also external battery packs for DSLR cameras that clip onto the camera body. Items like this are amongst the more expensive camera accessories for videography, but are a worthwhile investment if you are going to be doing lengthy shoots on a regular basis.

Check out our other advice for how to film with cameras.

Tripods and Stabilisers

One of the best answers to the question of what camera and video equipment you need to shoot video would be: stabilising camera accessories for videography.

Shaky footage is the fastest way to ruin any video project. It is almost impossible to fix and will ruin a whole shoot. However, it is a common mistake which is why tripods and stabilisers are essential videography equipment for beginners.

When holding a camera in your hands, it is impossible to get a perfectly smooth shot. Fortunately, it is still possible to fix it, however, it is preferable to rather invest in the camera accessories for videography that could prevent this problem.  

Tripods are the most popular solution and they are easy to transport because they fold up. Having said that they can be quite heavy too. When investing in a tripod remember that the heavier the camera, the heavier the tripod will need to be. When the balance is off, the camera could topple over.

There are also stabilisers that need to be held. These are usually used for GoPro kits but can be used for bridge, compact, hybrid and DSLR cameras.  

An External Microphone

Recording audio can be a nightmare for videographers especially those who choose to use DSLR cameras for filming. For this reason, investing in an external microphone is wise.  

Rode microphones, which are particularly well-known are favoured because they can be plugged into hybrid and reflex cameras. If you are unable to directly connect a microphone, you may need to record audio on a separate device and sync the audio and video up later in post-production.

You could also use one of those professional-looking clapper boards or just clap your hands to sync up the video and audio.

Spotlights for Recording Indoors

Spotlights are not an essential investment; however, they can definitely improve your footage. Lighting is a critical part of photography and film. While the image sensor is the main component for capturing light, it can be tough to shoot indoors when there is not enough light. This is when external lighting can help you create perfect scenes.

Ideally, you will need a camera, whether that is a hybrid or DSLR, that has a full frame sensor. You would be surprised at how much the size of a sensor can affect your photography. Small sensors will usually require additional light sources and spotlights, which can be pointed in any direction and are a good way to shoot in low lighting conditions.

A Sunshade

When it comes to camera accessories for videography, the sunshade is an often forgotten item even though it can be a very powerful tool. Sunshades will reduce glare and streaks from appearing on your footage. Additionally, sunshades are also a small buffer to protect the lens from external impact.

Filters

Filters can be added to lenses to filter out certain light, like UV light for example. Whether you are filming or using your camera for photography, there are different filters for colours and contrast.

Invest in a Viewfinder

On the odd occasion, you may battle to see what you are filming, however, if you want to be able to view exactly what your camera is viewing, an external monitor is the way to go.

By having a monitor, you will be able to clearly see what you are filming. It is also easier to focus and set up your shot.

Where Can You Buy Camera Accessories for Videography?

So where does one shop for accessories or the best videography lens?

You can get film and photography equipment in most electronic stores as well as in specialised camera shops. And of course, these days, everything is also available online.

Second-hand accessories are also available, just make sure that you have the equipment carefully checked out before parting with your cash.  

Learning more about film and photography is possible with the many private tutors on Superprof who are available to help. There are many different types of tutorials, learning styles and budgets, the choice is yours.