Content Creation Essentials: What I use to Film my videos

Starting your content journey doesn’t mean spending thousands on gear. This post walks you through the true essentials—from your phone to your tripod—and helps you build a creator setup that works for your style, your space, and your budget

5/8/20243 min read

A close-up view of a mechanical or technological component with a sleek design and metallic textures is displayed. The phrase 'Power Up Your Imagination' is etched on the surface, suggesting encouragement or inspiration, possibly for creative or innovative activities.

You don’t need a full-blown studio to start creating content. But what you do need is a setup that helps you feel confident and consistent without overwhelming you. Whether you’re filming reels, TikToks, or YouTube videos, or snapping clean product shots, this post covers the must-have tools to get started—plus gear upgrades to level up when you’re ready.

Your Phone Is Enough (At First)

Your phone is your best friend when starting. The camera quality on most modern smartphones is already high enough for social platforms. Pair it with good lighting, and you’re golden. Don’t wait for the perfect camera—start messy, then refine.

The Tripod That Changes Everything

A solid tripod instantly upgrades your content quality.

It allows for stable shots, hands-free filming, and better angles. Look for one that adjusts height, securely holds your phone, and is easy to carry.

I personally love this adjustable tripod that works for both phones and cameras. It’s lightweight, sturdy, and folds up easily—a go-to for filming anywhere.

Vlogging tripod

The Camera Upgrades (When You're Ready)

If you’re ready to step up your game or want more creative control, here are two options creators swear by:

Sony ZV-E10 – A favorite among content creators for a reason. It has amazing autofocus, clean image quality, and is super user-friendly.

check out the Sony ZV10

The Second front-runner next to the Sony ZV10

These aren’t must-haves to begin with, but they are powerful tools when you’re ready to invest.

ring light used to film content, content creation creating professional lighting

Canon G7X Mark III – Compact, crisp, and great for vlogging or travel content. It performs well in different lighting and has a polished look.

Not sure which camera is best for you? If you're focused on studio-style sit-down content or want interchangeable lenses for creative shots, the Sony ZV-E10 might be your go-to. If you prefer portability and ease of use—especially on the move—the Canon G7X Mark III is a solid pick. Think about the kind of content you want to create and what features matter most: portability, lens flexibility, low-light performance, or ease of use.

Check out the Canon G7X Mark III:

Lighting: The Silent MVP

If your content feels "off," it's probably a lighting issue. Natural light is free and unbeatable, but for cloudy days or indoor shoots, invest in a ring light or softbox. Even small desk lighting can make a big difference

One of the easy-to-use ring lights is best for creating content. Check it out

Keep It Organized

Use a basket, shelf, or drawer to keep your gear together. Having your tools in one place makes it easier to shoot consistently without friction.

Final Thoughts:

Your gear shouldn’t hold you back—it should support your creativity. Start with what you have, and upgrade as you grow. Whether you’re just starting out with a phone and tripod or investing in your first camera, the goal is the same: create content you love and feel proud of.

Learn to get out of the 200-views jail, and learn what "valuable content" is and how to create content that inspires you and that others will love. Check out the Content Vault, grab it for free, to get a preview of the Vision To Brand guide in creating your brand.

click here to learn more

Content Vault (Freebie)

photo credit. Justin Espejo,

Taken on the Sony ZV-10.