Step-by-step Professional Video Preparation Series: Equipment you’ll need to record a video

Now that you have a video script, it’s time to record. 

If you are on a tight budget or you are simply curious about the art of creating your own video projects, here’s a quick checklist of trusty equipment to make sure you capture the right look and sound:

1. Microphones.

Without sound, your video is moot. A quality microphone will capture clear, crisp audio. Depending on your needs, you can choose between a variety of types such as condenser microphones (more sensitive and great for quiet and controlled recording environments) or dynamic microphones (more robust microphone for live use with a dynamic PA system). If you plan to shoot on the go, a wireless lavalier microphone set that hooks onto the subject (rather than leaning into a fixed mic) is a good option. The Blue Yeti is a relatively affordable USB microphone that you can plug directly into your computer to start recording instantly. Don’t forget a good set of headphones for yourself to test audio on the spot!

2. Ring lights.

It isn’t always possible to use natural light when shooting a video, but free-standing ring lights provide illumination that can mimic it, to an extent. You can also use them in addition to natural light to eliminate harsh or unflattering shadows. 

3. Camera. 

While a high-quality camera is nice to have, it’s not always necessary.  Most smartphones can shoot high-quality video that you can export to software for editing. However, if your budget allows, there are plenty of major brand mirrorless camera (formerly DSLR camera) options and lenses that are great for capturing video. DMV productions works with Canon and Panasonic mirrorless cameras, but regardless of which brand you use, we recommend buying one brand and sticking to it for a generally smoother user-friendly experience. But don’t forget, all cameras need a tripod…unless you’re going for the run and gun style of shaky filming. 

4. Recording devices.

If you’re using a dual setup, or capturing audio and video separately and syncing later in post-production, you’ll need a device to record the audio your microphones transmit (the Zoom H5 is a popular choice). For a simpler setup, you can plug a USB microphone directly into your computer to record audio with your video. Descript offers a screen recording feature so you can capture it all together in real-time. 

5. Editing software.

Once you’ve shot your video, it’s time to refine it. Editing gives you a chance to fix or rework your video with the help of advanced digital tools. With Descript, you can import and transcribe your videos for simple, streamlined editing. Sync your audio with additional  visuals, eliminate filler words, apply transitions, or cut entire parts of your video via dialogue with Descript’s handy all-in-one editing software. Save and export your project, and prepare to wow your audiences with your high-quality video production.

6. Extras.

Batteries, memory cards, external hard drives, audio cables are just a few and NEVER underestimate the power of a good camera bag to safely transport your equipment investments. Be ready for any situation on shoot day!

… or you can leave all this work to professionals like us! DMV productions would be happy to work with you on your project, either in a hybrid coproduction or from A to Z. Give us a call to see how we can help you.