Vlogging Starter Kit for Beginners: Light, Mic and Tripod

You do not need an expensive camera to make good videos. Your phone is already capable. What separates amateur videos from professional ones is mostly three things: how well you are lit, how clearly you can be heard and how steady the shot is. A light, a microphone and a tripod fix all three.

Priority 1: sound

People forgive average video quality, but they leave when the sound is bad. Phone microphones pick up room echo and background noise. A clip-on or wireless lavalier microphone sits close to your mouth, so your voice is clear.

• Wired lavalier mics are simple and cheap. Check the plug type (USB-C, Lightning or headphone jack) matches your phone.
• Wireless mics give you freedom to move. Look for a model with a small receiver that plugs into the phone and a battery that lasts a few hours.
• Test before you record. Record ten seconds and listen with headphones.

Browse our microphones.

Priority 2: light

Good light makes any phone look better. A ring light places a soft, even light in front of your face, which reduces shadows and gives a clean look. A window can do the same during the day.

• Choose a light with adjustable brightness and warm to cool colour settings.
• Place the light just above eye level and directly in front of you.
• Avoid strong light behind you, which turns your face dark.

See our ring lights and video lights.

Priority 3: a steady shot

Shaky video looks unprofessional and is tiring to watch. A tripod holds your phone at the right height and lets you film hands-free.

• Pick a tripod that extends to about eye level when you are standing.
• Check the phone holder fits your phone with its case on.
• A small flexible tripod is useful for tables and travel.

Explore tripods and selfie sticks.

All-in-one kits

If you are starting out, a vlogging kit that bundles a light, microphone and tripod can be a simple way to begin. Check what is included and that the pieces work with your phone.

Simple setup that works

1. Put the phone on the tripod at eye level, using the back camera for better quality.
2. Set the light in front of you, slightly above your eyes.
3. Clip the microphone about a hand's width from your mouth.
4. Clean your camera lens with a soft cloth.
5. Record a short test and check light, sound and framing.

Beginner mistakes to avoid

• Filming in a noisy room with the phone microphone only.
• Having a bright window behind you.
• Forgetting to turn on Do Not Disturb so a call does not interrupt your video.
• Running out of storage or battery mid-recording. Keep a power bank handy.

Start small and improve

Begin with one upgrade, usually the microphone, then add light and a tripod as your channel grows. Questions? Our team can help you build a kit around your budget.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a camera to start vlogging?

No. A recent phone camera is enough. Use the back camera, which is better than the selfie camera, and put your money into sound and light.

What is the best place to film at home?

Face a window during the day for soft natural light, in a quiet room with soft furnishings, which reduces echo.

How long should my videos be?

As long as they need to be and no longer. Beginners often do well with short, focused videos that get to the point quickly.

How do I edit videos on my phone?

Free and low-cost editing apps are available for Android and iPhone. Start by trimming the beginning and end, then add captions.