The One-Person Video Setup We Recommend to Clients Starting From Scratch
If you’re just getting started with video content for your brand or business, the idea of setting up a full studio can feel overwhelming — but it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need fancy gear or a big crew to make professional-looking videos that build trust and grow your audience. Here’s a simple, reliable setup we recommend to clients who want to hit the ground running.
- BTW — none of these are affiliate links. We’re not getting kickbacks, commissions, or gold coins under the table. Just solid gear recs we genuinely suggest to clients starting from scratch. No “As an Amazon Associate…” fine print here. We figure if we do good work and earn your trust, you’ll come back for more — no shady link traps required.
1. Microphone: Clear audio is king
Bad audio kills viewer retention faster than anything else. We recommend a shotgun mic or a lavalier mic that plugs right into your phone or camera. Rode and Deity make great options that won’t break the bank but sound crisp and clear.
- Budget: **RØDE VideoMic GO II (~$99 USD) – A lightweight, plug-and-play directional mic with USB‑C and 3.5 mm outputs; praised for its crisp clarity and ease of use.
- Pro: **Shure MV88⁺ Video Kit (~$279 USD) – A premium stereo condenser mobile mic that comes with a mini tripod and cables; Shure calls it a “mobile professional recording rig.”
2. Tripod: Steady is professional
A basic tripod for your phone or camera goes a long way. Keeping your shot stable helps your viewers focus on your message instead of a shaky frame. Look for lightweight, adjustable options that you can easily move around.
- Budget: **Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod (~$85 USD) – A lightweight, user-friendly aluminum tripod, perfect for smartphones and entry-level cameras.
- Pro: **Joby GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit (~$165–200 USD) – Flexible legs and a ball head make it ideal for unstable surfaces and versatile shooting angles.
3. Camera or Phone: Use what you have
If you have a decent smartphone, you’re already halfway there. Modern phones shoot HD or even 4K video and are more than capable for social media and web content. If you want to upgrade later, mirrorless cameras like the Sony A6400 or Canon M50 offer fantastic quality without being intimidating.
- Budget: **iPhone SE (2022) 64 GB (~$180 USD unlocked) – A capable entry‑point iPhone with solid video quality at an affordable price.
- Pro: **Sony A6400 Mirrorless Camera (~$898 USD body‑only) – Excellent autofocus, APS‑C sensor, and sharp video with flexibility to upgrade lenses.
4. Lighting: Make yourself shine
Natural light is your best friend, but if you’re shooting indoors or in low light, a simple ring light or softbox kit can make a huge difference. Aim to light yourself evenly from the front to avoid harsh shadows or blown-out spots.
- Budget: **Neewer 2‑Pack Bi‑Color LED Kit (~$266 USD) – Two dimmable LED panels with high CRI (96+), ideal for balanced lighting in small home studios.
- Pro: **Aputure Amaran MC 4‑Light Kit (~$499 USD for RGBWW set) – Portable finger‑sized RGB lights with full color control; considered pro‑level for creative shoots.
Why this setup works:
It’s affordable, portable, and easy to learn. Plus, it builds a foundation you can upgrade over time. And here’s the best part: as you build your video content library, you can link to affiliate gear in your posts or videos — creating a revenue stream while helping your audience get set up right.
Ready to get filming? Start small, stay consistent, and watch your video presence grow.