Filming can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it’s not without its challenges. If you’re just starting out, it can be tough to know what equipment to purchase.
In this blog post, I will share with you some of the filming equipment that I’ve used on my journey as a creator. This gear has served me well in many different filming scenarios, and I believe it will do the same for you!
My Current Set-Up
Cameras
iPhone 14 Pro
The iPhone 14 Pro has an impressive camera that is really convenient for recording home content. It features a 48MP main, ultra-wide, and telephoto lens. I really think the detail and colour on this iPhone camera are awesome. The autofocus isn’t frustrating, which is great. Additionally, the Action mode helps to smooth out shaky handheld videos.
You’ll be able to take beautiful photos and videos no matter the time of day, as this phone has been optimized for low-light conditions. Whether you’re taking pictures or shooting video, the iPhone 14 Pro’s advanced camera and the fact that it’s my phone makes this my most convenient camera to use.
Insta360 X3
The Insta360 X3 is a great camera for filming your kids’ adventuring, as it offers a range of innovative features that make capturing special moments easier than ever. The 360-degree recording means you never have to worry about missing the shot, the camera is always pointing in the right direction. And don’t worry about being too slow; you can record up to 15 or 30 seconds before you press the shutter.
Its advanced image stabilization helps to ensure smooth shots even on bumpier trails. It even has a mode that keeps the camera’s focus on the holder, which saves so much time editing. The large sensor enables you to capture stunningly detailed 5.7K videos, it even has 180fps slowmo.
This camera is my go to action camera for when getting the perfect shot is really hard or just for recording footage of myself. Like for shots of the kids zooming past on bike, or for shots of myself skiing.
I pair this with a cold shoe mount and a usb-c to 3.5 mm adapter so i can connect the Rode Wireless GO 2 mic with it for better audio.
Gopro Hero 11
The GoPro Hero 11 Black is an exceptional camera for vlogging and follow footage. The large field of view makes it perfect for keeping yourself in the frame while holding the camera an arm’s length away. Because its field of view is smaller than a 360 camera it makes for better footage when I don’t have to worry about how to keep everything in the frame.
It also takes stunning 27 megapixel high-res photos. You can also capture cinematic 5.3K60 plus 2.7K240 video with 24.7-megapixel stills from the video.
It also has HyperSmooth 5.0 video stabilization with Horizon Lock so that your videos are always stable even when you’re on the move or shooting underwater. It’s also super tough, the build quality on these things is great.
I pair this camera with the GoPro media mod which is basically a cold shoe mount and a USB-c to 3.5mm trs analog output adapter. So I can use the DJI mics to get better audio.
Microphones
DJI Mic
The DJI Mic is an exceptional microphone, as it offers high-quality audio quality while staying small and lightweight. The easy setup gives you greater control over your recordings – allowing you to adjust sound levels and balance with ease.
The case is super cool, it charges everything, really extending the battery life, and keeps the mics and receiver together. The integrated storage means you can record both primary and backup audio on the go. The rugged construction ensures that it can withstand harsh environments.
In my opinion, the DJI Mic is the better of the two systems that I use but unfortunately, the DJI Mic won’t work with my Insta360 camera. That’s why I only use it when filming with my GoPro.
RODE Wireless GO 2
The RODE Wireless GO 2 is a great mic system. The dual-channel recording feature allows you to simultaneously capture two sound sources, such as dialogue and ambient noise, giving you flexibility in post-production.
The 3.5mm TRS, USB-C, and iOS digital outputs provide universal compatibility with cameras, mobile devices, and computers, which is why I use them.
They’re not quite as easy to set up as the DJI mics and they don’t come with a fancy charging case. These are the mics I have to use when recording with my Insta360 X3 camera.
Accessories
Insta360 Invisible Selfie Sticks
The Insta360 Invisible Selfie Sticks are my favourite accessory to film with. With their lightweight, rigid carbon fibre design and portability, you can effortlessly get stunning aerial shots of your little ones with just a flick of the wrist. They pack down easily to fit into a bag while the camera mount on the handle provides a secure spot to attach to all kinds of other things. They come in a range of sizes from the 70cm Invisible Stick to the 3m Extended Edition.
GoPro Media Mod
The GoPro Media Mod is an awesome GoPro case for anyone doing some vlogging. It has a built-in microphone but I use it as a USB-c to 3.5mm adapter for my DJI Mic.
Insta 360 Ski pole Mount – This is an obvious one, it’s great for getting skiing shots where I have both poles in my hands.
Insta 360 Motorcycle Bundle – The motorcycle bundle comes with more mounts than the bike bundle so I opted for this one.
Lavalier Microphones – These just make the mics a little less bulky for clipping on near the kid’s faces.
Past Set-Ups
Here is a list of some of the cameras I’ve used in the past and think are pretty good. They may not be the newest and most modern but they’ve got everything you need and they’re a better bang for your buck:
