Starting From Scratch: Video Gear Insights

Essential YouTube Equipment For Starting Your Channel - What Do You Really Need?

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett

Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions

0

Check out our most updated guide on this topic: YouTube Equipment Starter Guide For Beginners .

The first thing to make sure of before starting a YouTube channel is having all that you need to record and upload high-quality videos regularly. That doesn’t mean you have to take out a loan and spend thousands to purchase a brand new camera and all other gadgets that professional filmmakers use.

The smartest way to get started is to go through a list of necessary equipment for YouTube and check whether or not you already own some of it. Once your channel starts growing, you can then start thinking about whether you want to invest in upgraded equipment. Here is a quick overview of all items that you need to start entertaining your online audience and gaining subscribers to your YouTube channel:

• Your YouTube Camera
• Microphones and Audio
• Lighting Gear for YouTube
• Tripods and Camera Stands
• Smartphone Camera Gear

YouTube Cameras

The short version: Use whatever you already have, even if it’s your phone or webcam. It’s nice to have sharp, fine-tuned, 4K footage, but viewers will forgive lower visual quality if your content is good.

The long version: You will need a camera, but there are a lot of different devices you can use including DSLRs, point and shoots, webcams, and your smartphone.

Your choice of camera will have a tremendous impact on the visual quality of your content and might drive your decisions regarding other pieces of equipment. However, you shouldn’t feel obliged to work with a top-notch camera from day one, especially since cheaper options can produce great results if used the right way.

On one end of the spectrum, you have basic smartphone cameras and web cameras, which are easy to come by and simple to operate. These days, high-end phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras that are more than sufficient for the needs of the average YouTuber. Better webcams can also do the job, although high-performance webcam models can get pretty expensive too. It is probably wise to resist the urge to start broadcasting with the built-in camera in your laptop and at least get a webcam or use your phone, but your computer’s camera is still always an option. Not having a better camera should never stop you from making YouTube videos.

If you already have a DSLR camera then it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with it. You have far more freedom to adjust the settings and achieve a professional look for your videos with a DSLR, but that does mean it’ll take some time to become an expert at using it. Ultra-high resolution is not required for YouTube, but it certainly won’t hurt to have additional sharpness and more detail in the scene. If you’re shopping for a DSLR, look for one with a flip screen that allows you to quickly check what your viewers see.

YouTube Microphone and Audio

The short version: Audio quality is extremely important. If you can buy either a new camera or an external microphone, but not both, it might be better to go for the microphone. Click here for advice on upping your audio quality without an external microphone.

The long version: Sound capturing is every bit as important for your success as your video feed. In fact, poor audio can be even more damaging to your subscriber count than grainy video, since people won’t spend their time listening to something they have to put effort into understanding.

Again, most YouTube video makers have a limited budget at their disposal, so professional microphones are mostly off the table. However, investing in a directional microphone (‘shotgun mic’) that can pick up your voice clearly and without background noise is certainly a smart move. Such microphones can be pointed towards you while you speak, and since most YouTubers sit still while doing their shows there won’t be too much need for in-session adjustments.

If you’re not ready to invest in a shotgun mic, you can also find very inexpensive (often under $20) LAV mics. These small microphones can be pinned to your shirt, which allows them to record very clear dialogue because they’re so close to your mouth.

Lights for YouTube

The short version: You need as much light as you can get. Lighting kits can be affordable on Amazon, but you can also achieve a great look using daylight/windows and ‘daylight’ lightbulbs.

The long version: If you’ve ever tried to make a video indoors, you already know that it’s necessary to have additional light. Often just filming with the normal lights in a room will cause your footage to look dark and grainy, and possibly be tinted orange. To overcome these problems you need to increase the amount of light you have available.

Sometimes, it is enough to film near windows and/or bring more household lamps into your filming area. For any household lamps or lighting fixtures you use, make sure to put in white or ‘daylight’ lightbulbs instead of using the orange/tungsten bulbs that you might have for everyday use (this is how you avoid tinting things orange).

If you have the budget available to get some lighting equipment, you can find softbox lights or LED panel lights available fairly inexpensively online. Softbox lights are great because they provide even, diffused, light.

Another useful piece of lighting equipment to have is a reflector. A reflector is usually a piece of white, silver, or gold fabric stretched over a frame. You can use it to bounce light from one light source back towards yourself (this is a great way to fill shadows cast by your main light). Reflectors tend to be inexpensive, but you can also use white cardboard or tinfoil in place of purchasing a reflector.

Tripods and Camera Stands

The short version: You need something to hold your camera. If you mostly film in your own home that can be a desk or a stack of books, but if you make a lot of videos while you’re on the go you probably need a tripod or gimbal. Heavier cameras need heavier tripods.

The long version: While handheld cameras can deliver solid results for vloggers and casual streamers, viewers do expect reasonably stable footage. For many types of videos, the camera needs to be completely still and flatly positioned on a horizontal plane. Tripods and camera stands can cost very little, so it’s a good idea to look into getting some kind of stabilizer.

When you are choosing a tripod, pay attention to how much it weighs. If the camera that needs to be mounted on it is very heavy (like some DSLR models), you want to ensure that the structure itself weighs enough not to be easily tipped over. Too thin tripods can put your camera at risk, and that’s the last thing you want. Smaller cameras such as GoPros are more flexible in this regard and can be placed on a wider range of tripods.

Even if you are using a phone or a webcam to record YouTube videos, you should consider mounting the device on a stable stand. It is possible to find mini tripods ideal for smartphones for as little as $10. These tripods are small enough to carry in your pocket, so you will be prepared to start making a video no matter where your adventures take you. If you are using a web camera, you should attach it to the stand so that it won’t move accidentally after you touch the surface it is placed on.

Smartphone Camera Gear

The short version: There’s a lot of gear out there designed with smartphone photos and videos in mind, including clip-on lenses, tripod mounts, phone-mounted LED lights, and inexpensive microphones that plug into the audio jack.

The long version: Recording your videos with a mobile phone can be a good decision. It all depends on the phone you have and the range of add-ons and apps that you complement it with. Almost every high-end model released in the past five years can shoot videos in 1080p or higher. Some can even produce 4K footage. If you perfect your smartphone filming technique, your YouTube videos could look as if they were made with pro equipment.

On the flip side, smartphone cameras typically perform poorly in low light. It is possible to download an app that lets you play around with settings to overcome this, but a phone-mounted LED light is probably a better solution. An external microphone might also be a necessity, but there are some good (inexpensive) options that can simply be plugged in through the headphone jack.

Another common downside of smartphone cameras is that most of them use digital zoom, which is vastly inferior to optical zoom. If you intend to shoot anything that’s further away than a few feet, you need a clip-on lens that goes on top of the built-in camera. This inexpensive device will give you a lot of freedom to work in space, and allow you to make spectacular shots even without high-end YouTube equipment.

Equipment with Easy-to-Use Video Editor

Richard Bennett

Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.

Follow @Richard Bennett

Everything You Need To Know About YouTube Shorts Templates

YouTube Shorts are short, 60-second videos that can be shared across all social media platforms. They’re a great way to quickly and easily share your message with your audience. As a result, many creators are turning to YouTube Shorts Templates to help them create professional-looking videos that stand out.

YouTube Shorts Templates can create a wide variety of videos, from product demos and how-tos to vlogs and comedy skits. They can help you create polished and engaging videos without the need for expensive equipment or a lot of editing experience.

This article will explore everything you need to know about YouTube Shorts Templates, including how to use them, tips for creating great videos, and examples of how other creators use them to boost their views and reach.

Overview of YouTube Shorts

YouTube Shorts is a new feature launched by YouTube in September 2020, which allows users to create short, 15-second videos that can be shared across all social media platforms. According to the statistics of EarthWeb , YouTube Shorts has seen tremendous growth in popularity since its launch, with billions of views every day.

According to YouTube, in the U.S. alone, the watch time for Shorts has grown over 4x since November 2020, and by December 2021, daily active users of Shorts exceeded 200M. As per YouTube’s official blog, In India, Shorts watch time has grown by over 20x since its launch, and by the end of 2021, India had over 150M daily active users.

In addition to the strong growth in views and engagement, YouTube Shorts has also become a powerful tool for creators to reach new audiences and grow their channels.

According to a study by Influencer Marketing Hub, YouTube Shorts have a higher engagement rate than traditional YouTube videos, with Shorts receiving an average of 3x more comments and likes than regular videos. The study also shows that Shorts videos have a higher completion rate of 60% compared to traditional videos with 40%.

As a result of the popularity of YouTube Shorts, many creators are now turning to YouTube Shorts Templates to help them create professional-looking videos that stand out. YouTube Shorts Templates can create a wide variety of videos, from product demos and how-tos to vlogs and comedy skits. They can help you create polished and engaging videos without the need for expensive equipment or a lot of editing experience.

How To Get Profit from Short Videos

There are a few ways to monetize your YouTube Shorts videos and turn them into a source of profit. One way is through YouTube’s built-in monetization options, such as displaying ads on your videos, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing. Another way is to use your Shorts videos’ popularity to promote your products or services.

You can also use YouTube Shorts to drive traffic to your website, where you can sell products or services. Collaborating with brands and promoting their products in your videos can also be a great way to monetize your content. It’s important to remember that building a sizable audience and creating high-quality content is key to monetizing your YouTube Shorts.

Benefits of Using Templates to Create YouTube Shorts

There are several benefits to using templates to create YouTube Shorts, including:

• Time-saving: Templates provide a pre-designed structure for your video, which saves you time and effort in creating a polished and professional-looking video.
• Consistency: Templates can help you maintain a consistent look and feel for your videos, which helps to build your brand and make your videos easily recognizable.
• Cost-effective: Templates can be cost-effective, eliminating the need for expensive equipment or editing software.
• Increased engagement: Templates can help you create engaging videos that capture your audience’s attention and increase the likelihood of them watching and engaging with your content.
• Access to a wider audience: Templates can help increase your views and reach, which can help you grow your channel and reach a wider audience.
• Easy to use: Templates are easy to use, even if you have yet to gain any prior video editing experience.

Using templates allows you to quickly create high-quality, professional-looking videos while also saving money and reaching a wider audience.

How to Make YouTube Shorts Using a Video Editor With Templates

Creating YouTube Shorts using a video editor with templates is a great way to save time and effort while still producing polished, professional-looking videos. One great video editor that can be used for this purpose is Filmora. Filmora has desktop and mobile versions, so you can create YouTube Shorts using any device.

Video Templates Feature of Filmora

With Wondershare Filmora , users can access a variety of templates for YouTube Shorts, which can be easily customized to fit the style and theme of their videos. These templates include various themes such as travel, vlogs, product demos, and more.

Wondershare Filmora also provides a wide range of editing tools, such as text, music, and effects, to help users create engaging and visually appealing videos. Filmora’s templates are an easy and efficient way to create visually appealing and engaging YouTube Shorts that stand out from the rest.

Free Download For Win 7 or later(64-bit)

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step-by-Step Guide to Create YouTube Shorts With Templates Using Filmora for Desktop

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts can be time-consuming and daunting, especially if you have limited experience with video editing. However, using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your desktop.

Step 1. Start Wondershare Filmora on your computer. On the “Templates” tab, you will find a variety of component templates to choose from.

Step 2. Select the template you want to use and place it on the timeline point.

Step 3. Add your videos, pictures, and audio files to the designated placeholders in the template to replace the sample ones.

Step 4. Trim, edit the clip or add other effects, texts and stickers as you like.

Step 5. Click the “Export“ button on the upper part to save your clip.

When creating YouTube Shorts, it is important to remember that these videos are vertical. You can easily find vertical video templates in Filmora’s template library. So select the one that best fits your needs and style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Use YouTube Shorts Video Templates With Filmora for Mobile

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts on mobile devices is now more accessible than ever. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your mobile device.

Step 1. Install the Filmora app on your device, then open it.

Step 2. Tap the “Template“ button on the screen’s bottom right.

Step 3. Select the template you wish to use.

Step 4. Press the “Make Video“ button to download the chosen template.

Step 5. Add the necessary footage to edit the template, then tap “Next.”

Step 6. You can preview the video and make any necessary changes.

Step 7. Tap the “Export“ button to save the completed video.

If you want to learn more about using Filmora’s video templates feature to create YouTube Shorts on your mobile device, we recommend watching this video tutorial:

YouTube Shorts Video Template Resources in Filmora

Filmora offers a wide variety of video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts. These templates include various themes such as an event, sports, fashion, lifestyle, and more. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short.

1. Event YouTube Shorts Template

Event YouTube Shorts Templates are an interactive way for creators to showcase their events dynamically and engagingly. These templates come with pre-designed elements such as animations, backgrounds, and text styles that are perfect for highlighting the key moments and creating excitement among the audience. It’s an effective way to make the event more engaging and interactive for the audience.

2. Sports YouTube Shorts Video Template

Sports YouTube Shorts video templates are pre-designed, customizable video templates for creating short, engaging sports-related content for YouTube’s Shorts feature. These templates often include scoreboards, team logos, and highlights footage and can be easily customized with your text, images, and videos. They are ideal for sports teams, athletes, and content creators looking to quickly and easily create professional-looking videos.

3. Fashion YouTube Shorts Template

Fashion YouTube Shorts templates are pre-designed video templates that can be used to create visually appealing and engaging content for fashion-related YouTube Shorts. These templates often include elements such as fashion models, clothing and accessory displays, and trendy backgrounds and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can be used to create various types of videos, including fashion lookbooks, product reviews, and styling tutorials.

4. Life Style Shorts Template

Lifestyle YouTube Shorts templates often include elements such as different lifestyle scenes, like traveling, cooking, home decor, and DIY projects, and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can create various videos, including travel vlogs, recipe videos, and DIY tutorials.

Conclusion

YouTube Shorts are a great way to connect with your audience and promote your brand. Using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. Filmora offers various video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts, including templates for events, sports, fashion, and lifestyle.

Filmora templates are fully customizable, meaning you can change the text, images, and colors to match your brand. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short. With the help of Filmora, you can easily create professional-looking YouTube Shorts that stand out and capture your audience’s attention.

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step-by-Step Guide to Create YouTube Shorts With Templates Using Filmora for Desktop

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts can be time-consuming and daunting, especially if you have limited experience with video editing. However, using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your desktop.

Step 1. Start Wondershare Filmora on your computer. On the “Templates” tab, you will find a variety of component templates to choose from.

Step 2. Select the template you want to use and place it on the timeline point.

Step 3. Add your videos, pictures, and audio files to the designated placeholders in the template to replace the sample ones.

Step 4. Trim, edit the clip or add other effects, texts and stickers as you like.

Step 5. Click the “Export“ button on the upper part to save your clip.

When creating YouTube Shorts, it is important to remember that these videos are vertical. You can easily find vertical video templates in Filmora’s template library. So select the one that best fits your needs and style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Use YouTube Shorts Video Templates With Filmora for Mobile

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts on mobile devices is now more accessible than ever. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your mobile device.

Step 1. Install the Filmora app on your device, then open it.

Step 2. Tap the “Template“ button on the screen’s bottom right.

Step 3. Select the template you wish to use.

Step 4. Press the “Make Video“ button to download the chosen template.

Step 5. Add the necessary footage to edit the template, then tap “Next.”

Step 6. You can preview the video and make any necessary changes.

Step 7. Tap the “Export“ button to save the completed video.

If you want to learn more about using Filmora’s video templates feature to create YouTube Shorts on your mobile device, we recommend watching this video tutorial:

YouTube Shorts Video Template Resources in Filmora

Filmora offers a wide variety of video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts. These templates include various themes such as an event, sports, fashion, lifestyle, and more. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short.

1. Event YouTube Shorts Template

Event YouTube Shorts Templates are an interactive way for creators to showcase their events dynamically and engagingly. These templates come with pre-designed elements such as animations, backgrounds, and text styles that are perfect for highlighting the key moments and creating excitement among the audience. It’s an effective way to make the event more engaging and interactive for the audience.

2. Sports YouTube Shorts Video Template

Sports YouTube Shorts video templates are pre-designed, customizable video templates for creating short, engaging sports-related content for YouTube’s Shorts feature. These templates often include scoreboards, team logos, and highlights footage and can be easily customized with your text, images, and videos. They are ideal for sports teams, athletes, and content creators looking to quickly and easily create professional-looking videos.

3. Fashion YouTube Shorts Template

Fashion YouTube Shorts templates are pre-designed video templates that can be used to create visually appealing and engaging content for fashion-related YouTube Shorts. These templates often include elements such as fashion models, clothing and accessory displays, and trendy backgrounds and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can be used to create various types of videos, including fashion lookbooks, product reviews, and styling tutorials.

4. Life Style Shorts Template

Lifestyle YouTube Shorts templates often include elements such as different lifestyle scenes, like traveling, cooking, home decor, and DIY projects, and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can create various videos, including travel vlogs, recipe videos, and DIY tutorials.

Conclusion

YouTube Shorts are a great way to connect with your audience and promote your brand. Using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. Filmora offers various video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts, including templates for events, sports, fashion, and lifestyle.

Filmora templates are fully customizable, meaning you can change the text, images, and colors to match your brand. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short. With the help of Filmora, you can easily create professional-looking YouTube Shorts that stand out and capture your audience’s attention.

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step-by-Step Guide to Create YouTube Shorts With Templates Using Filmora for Desktop

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts can be time-consuming and daunting, especially if you have limited experience with video editing. However, using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your desktop.

Step 1. Start Wondershare Filmora on your computer. On the “Templates” tab, you will find a variety of component templates to choose from.

Step 2. Select the template you want to use and place it on the timeline point.

Step 3. Add your videos, pictures, and audio files to the designated placeholders in the template to replace the sample ones.

Step 4. Trim, edit the clip or add other effects, texts and stickers as you like.

Step 5. Click the “Export“ button on the upper part to save your clip.

When creating YouTube Shorts, it is important to remember that these videos are vertical. You can easily find vertical video templates in Filmora’s template library. So select the one that best fits your needs and style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Use YouTube Shorts Video Templates With Filmora for Mobile

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts on mobile devices is now more accessible than ever. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your mobile device.

Step 1. Install the Filmora app on your device, then open it.

Step 2. Tap the “Template“ button on the screen’s bottom right.

Step 3. Select the template you wish to use.

Step 4. Press the “Make Video“ button to download the chosen template.

Step 5. Add the necessary footage to edit the template, then tap “Next.”

Step 6. You can preview the video and make any necessary changes.

Step 7. Tap the “Export“ button to save the completed video.

If you want to learn more about using Filmora’s video templates feature to create YouTube Shorts on your mobile device, we recommend watching this video tutorial:

YouTube Shorts Video Template Resources in Filmora

Filmora offers a wide variety of video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts. These templates include various themes such as an event, sports, fashion, lifestyle, and more. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short.

1. Event YouTube Shorts Template

Event YouTube Shorts Templates are an interactive way for creators to showcase their events dynamically and engagingly. These templates come with pre-designed elements such as animations, backgrounds, and text styles that are perfect for highlighting the key moments and creating excitement among the audience. It’s an effective way to make the event more engaging and interactive for the audience.

2. Sports YouTube Shorts Video Template

Sports YouTube Shorts video templates are pre-designed, customizable video templates for creating short, engaging sports-related content for YouTube’s Shorts feature. These templates often include scoreboards, team logos, and highlights footage and can be easily customized with your text, images, and videos. They are ideal for sports teams, athletes, and content creators looking to quickly and easily create professional-looking videos.

3. Fashion YouTube Shorts Template

Fashion YouTube Shorts templates are pre-designed video templates that can be used to create visually appealing and engaging content for fashion-related YouTube Shorts. These templates often include elements such as fashion models, clothing and accessory displays, and trendy backgrounds and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can be used to create various types of videos, including fashion lookbooks, product reviews, and styling tutorials.

4. Life Style Shorts Template

Lifestyle YouTube Shorts templates often include elements such as different lifestyle scenes, like traveling, cooking, home decor, and DIY projects, and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can create various videos, including travel vlogs, recipe videos, and DIY tutorials.

Conclusion

YouTube Shorts are a great way to connect with your audience and promote your brand. Using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. Filmora offers various video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts, including templates for events, sports, fashion, and lifestyle.

Filmora templates are fully customizable, meaning you can change the text, images, and colors to match your brand. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short. With the help of Filmora, you can easily create professional-looking YouTube Shorts that stand out and capture your audience’s attention.

Free Download For macOS 10.14 or later

Step-by-Step Guide to Create YouTube Shorts With Templates Using Filmora for Desktop

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts can be time-consuming and daunting, especially if you have limited experience with video editing. However, using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your desktop.

Step 1. Start Wondershare Filmora on your computer. On the “Templates” tab, you will find a variety of component templates to choose from.

Step 2. Select the template you want to use and place it on the timeline point.

Step 3. Add your videos, pictures, and audio files to the designated placeholders in the template to replace the sample ones.

Step 4. Trim, edit the clip or add other effects, texts and stickers as you like.

Step 5. Click the “Export“ button on the upper part to save your clip.

When creating YouTube Shorts, it is important to remember that these videos are vertical. You can easily find vertical video templates in Filmora’s template library. So select the one that best fits your needs and style.

Step-by-Step Guide to Use YouTube Shorts Video Templates With Filmora for Mobile

Creating professional-looking YouTube Shorts on mobile devices is now more accessible than ever. This step-by-step guide will show you how to use Filmora’s video templates feature to create visually appealing YouTube Shorts on your mobile device.

Step 1. Install the Filmora app on your device, then open it.

Step 2. Tap the “Template“ button on the screen’s bottom right.

Step 3. Select the template you wish to use.

Step 4. Press the “Make Video“ button to download the chosen template.

Step 5. Add the necessary footage to edit the template, then tap “Next.”

Step 6. You can preview the video and make any necessary changes.

Step 7. Tap the “Export“ button to save the completed video.

If you want to learn more about using Filmora’s video templates feature to create YouTube Shorts on your mobile device, we recommend watching this video tutorial:

YouTube Shorts Video Template Resources in Filmora

Filmora offers a wide variety of video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts. These templates include various themes such as an event, sports, fashion, lifestyle, and more. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short.

1. Event YouTube Shorts Template

Event YouTube Shorts Templates are an interactive way for creators to showcase their events dynamically and engagingly. These templates come with pre-designed elements such as animations, backgrounds, and text styles that are perfect for highlighting the key moments and creating excitement among the audience. It’s an effective way to make the event more engaging and interactive for the audience.

2. Sports YouTube Shorts Video Template

Sports YouTube Shorts video templates are pre-designed, customizable video templates for creating short, engaging sports-related content for YouTube’s Shorts feature. These templates often include scoreboards, team logos, and highlights footage and can be easily customized with your text, images, and videos. They are ideal for sports teams, athletes, and content creators looking to quickly and easily create professional-looking videos.

3. Fashion YouTube Shorts Template

Fashion YouTube Shorts templates are pre-designed video templates that can be used to create visually appealing and engaging content for fashion-related YouTube Shorts. These templates often include elements such as fashion models, clothing and accessory displays, and trendy backgrounds and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can be used to create various types of videos, including fashion lookbooks, product reviews, and styling tutorials.

4. Life Style Shorts Template

Lifestyle YouTube Shorts templates often include elements such as different lifestyle scenes, like traveling, cooking, home decor, and DIY projects, and can be easily customized to suit the creator’s specific needs and aesthetic. They can create various videos, including travel vlogs, recipe videos, and DIY tutorials.

Conclusion

YouTube Shorts are a great way to connect with your audience and promote your brand. Using a video editor like Filmora, you can easily create high-quality YouTube Shorts using templates. Filmora offers various video templates that can be used to create YouTube Shorts, including templates for events, sports, fashion, and lifestyle.

Filmora templates are fully customizable, meaning you can change the text, images, and colors to match your brand. These templates can be found in Filmora’s library, making it easy for users to find the perfect template for their YouTube Short. With the help of Filmora, you can easily create professional-looking YouTube Shorts that stand out and capture your audience’s attention.

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