The Best Video Equipment for Musicians Ready to Make Content
Creating captivating content as a musician, beatmaker, or producer isn’t just about your talent—it’s also about the tools you use to showcase that talent. Whether you’re aiming to make waves on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, having the right gear can make all the difference in how your content is received. But don’t worry, you don’t need to break the bank to get started. Let’s dive into some essential, budget-friendly gear that will elevate your content creation game without emptying your wallet. From cameras to microphones, lighting, and editing software, here’s what you need to know to start producing high-quality content that resonates with your audience and helps you stand out in the crowded digital landscape.
The Best Video Gear for Musicians Ready to Make Content
1. Camera
Your camera is the cornerstone of your content creation setup. Whether you're shooting vlogs, tutorials, live performances, or behind-the-scenes content, the clarity and quality of your visuals are crucial in making a lasting impression on your audience.
iPhone 15 Pro
The best camera is the one you have, and for most people that’s their phone camera. Don’t underestimate the potential of something like the iPhone 15 Pro, a very powerful tool for musicians looking to create professional-quality video content. With its advanced triple-lens system, this model captures stunningly sharp and vibrant footage, rivaling some entry-level mirorless cameras.
Its larger sensor and improved low-light performance make it perfect for recording in dim environments, like concerts or late-night jam sessions. The iPhone 15 Pro’s Cinematic Mode takes your videos to the next level, allowing you to create a shallow depth-of-field effect that gives your footage a polished, film-like quality.
For beatmakers, this phone is a versatile tool—perfect for capturing studio tutorials, live performances, or engaging content for social media. When paired with the right accessories—such as a tripod, external microphone, or gimbal stabilizer—the iPhone 15 Pro becomes an all-in-one solution for high-quality, mobile content creation, eliminating the need for bulky equipment.
Whether you're live streaming a DJ set, recording music videos, or capturing behind-the-scenes footage, the iPhone 15 Pro has the power to help musicians create stunning content effortlessly.
You can also produce music with it… Just sayin’.
Canon R50
If you’re a musician looking to elevate your video content, the Canon R50 is an excellent entry-level mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding video quality. Its fast and reliable autofocus ensures you stay in sharp focus, even during dynamic performances or when moving between instruments—perfect for live streaming gigs, jam sessions, or tutorials.
The R50’s USB-C connection allows you to use it as a high-quality webcam, meaning you can stream live performances directly without the need for additional capture cards or software. This makes it incredibly easy to set up for live streaming, whether you’re performing at home or in the studio. Additionally, the Canon Camera Connect app enables wireless control from your smartphone, letting you adjust settings or even trigger recording remotely during a performance.
With interchangeable lenses for different shot types, from full-band performances to close-ups of your instrument, and a user-friendly interface that allows you to focus on your music rather than complicated settings, the Canon R50 is a powerful yet portable solution. Its compact design also makes it easy to bring along with you to gigs, outdoor shoots, or wherever inspiration strikes, ensuring you capture professional-grade video and live streams with ease.
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
For musicians and content creators who need a powerful yet ultra-portable camera, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is an exceptional choice. Its 3-axis gimbal stabilization ensures smooth, shake-free footage, even during fast-paced performances like a live DJ set or jam session. The ActiveTrack feature automatically follows your movements, keeping you in frame, perfect for solo musicians who want to focus on their performance without adjusting the camera.
The Osmo Pocket 3 records in 4K at 60fps, delivering stunning clarity, and its 1-inch sensor excels in low-light conditions, making it ideal for dim venues or evening performances. Its compact size makes it easy to take on the go, whether you're heading to a live event or shooting in the studio. The intuitive touchscreen and user-friendly controls allow you to capture professional-grade content effortlessly.
With its advanced features and portability, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is the perfect tool for musicians looking to create high-quality video content and vlogs.
Sony ZV-1 II
The Sony ZV-1 II is designed with content creators in mind, making it an ideal choice for musicians looking to capture high-quality video. Its advanced autofocus system keeps you perfectly in focus, even during fast-paced performances or when you're moving around the stage.
The flip-out touchscreen makes vlogging and self-recording easy, ensuring you stay connected with your audience while framing the shot just right. For musicians recording outdoors or in bright environments, the built-in ND filter automatically adjusts exposure, giving your videos a polished and professional look without the need for extra gear.
Lightweight and compact, the ZV-1 II is perfect for musicians on the go, whether you're capturing behind-the-scenes footage, recording tutorials in your studio, or live-streaming performances at gigs. Its versatile features cater to a variety of video styles, making it the go-to camera for musicians who want high-quality production in a portable package.
Camera Accessories
Don’t forget the essentials that complement your camera and enhance your content creation process.
A reliable memory card with 64GB or higher capacity ensures you never run out of space during long recording sessions, allowing you to capture more content without frequent interruptions.
A plug adapter is handy if you plan on streaming directly from your camera, ensuring you can keep your content flowing seamlessly without worrying about power limitations.
Additionally, consider investing in a good quality camera bag to protect your gear while on the move and keep everything organized.
2. Microphone
Good audio is just as important as good video. While cameras come with built-in microphones, they often fall short in capturing clear, professional-quality sound. An external microphone is a must-have for any serious content creator, especially for musicians and producers whose content relies heavily on audio quality.
Rode Microphones Wireless GO II
This wireless mic system is perfect for those who need freedom of movement while recording. It offers reliable audio quality, long battery life, and an easy setup, making it a favorite among content creators.
The Wireless GO II includes two transmitters and one receiver, allowing you to capture audio from multiple sources simultaneously, which is ideal for interviews, duets, or capturing ambient sounds in your recording environment. Its compact and lightweight design ensures it doesn’t interfere with your performance, while the high-quality digital transmission ensures your audio remains crisp and clear, free from interference or dropouts.
Whether you’re recording a live performance, conducting a tutorial, or creating a behind-the-scenes look at your production process, the Wireless GO II provides the flexibility and reliability you need to capture professional-grade audio without the hassle of tangled wires or bulky equipment.
Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Lavalier Microphone
If you’re on a budget, the Lark M2 set is ideal for recording clear audio at a distance. This wireless lavalier microphone is versatile and compatible with iPhones, Android devices, cameras, and PCs. It offers noise cancellation and a 1000ft range, making it perfect for video recording and streaming.
The Lark M2’s compact design allows it to be discreetly attached to your clothing, ensuring your focus remains on your performance without distracting equipment in the frame. Its advanced noise reduction technology ensures your voice is captured clearly, even in noisy environments, while the long-range capability allows you to move freely without worrying about losing signal.
For all your wireless microphone needs, the Hollyland Lark M2 delivers high-quality audio without the hassle of tangled wires or limited mobility. Its easy setup and versatile compatibility make it an excellent choice for musicians and producers who need affordable high-quality audio.
Rode VideoMic GO
If you’re looking for an affordable on-camera microphone, the Rode VideoMic GO is a fantastic option. It significantly improves audio quality over built-in camera mics and is compact, lightweight, and doesn’t require batteries, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting.
The VideoMic GO’s plug-and-play design means you can quickly attach it to your camera and start recording without any complicated setup, allowing you to focus on your performance or tutorial. Its directional microphone design helps to isolate your voice from background noise, ensuring your audio remains clear and focused even in busy environments.
Whether you’re capturing a spontaneous jam session or shooting some BTS footage, the Rode VideoMic GO provides the enhanced audio quality you need to make your content stand out. Its durability and lightweight construction make it easy to carry and use in a variety of settings, making it an essential addition to any content creator’s gear arsenal.
3. Tripod
A tripod is essential for stable shots, whether you’re filming yourself or setting up a scene. It keeps your camera steady, allowing you to experiment with different angles and compositions without worrying about shaky footage. Stability is key in producing professional-looking videos, and a reliable tripod can make a significant difference in the overall quality of your content.
Neewer 72 Inch Tripod
The Neewer 72 Inch Camera Tripod is a versatile and affordable choice for both beginners and seasoned content creators. With its lightweight aluminum construction, it's easy to transport, making it ideal for use in a studio or on location. The adjustable height, extending up to 72 inches, allows you to capture a variety of angles, whether you're filming seated tutorials, outdoor scenes, or my favorite: overhead shots.
The ball head and center column provide smooth adjustments for precise positioning, while the Arca-type quick-release plate ensures your camera is securely attached and ready for quick setup changes. Additionally, the tripod converts into a monopod, offering more flexibility for dynamic shooting situations. Its sturdy build and non-slip feet provide reliable stability, ensuring your footage is steady and professional. A carrying bag is included, making it a convenient option for creators on the go.
This tripod offers excellent value, making it a solid investment for those looking to enhance their content production setup without breaking the bank.
Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit
Known for its flexibility, the Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit allows you to attach your camera to almost anything, enabling creative angles and stable shots in unconventional environments. Its bendable legs can wrap around poles, trees, or even studio equipment, giving you the freedom to experiment with unique perspectives and dynamic compositions.
This versatility is particularly useful for vloggers and musicians who need a setup that can adapt to various shooting scenarios, whether you’re filming a live performance in a tight space, capturing a spontaneous jam session outdoors, or setting up multiple angles for a multi-camera shoot.
The GorillaPod’s durable construction ensures it can support cameras up to 3 kilograms (6.6 pounds), making it suitable for a wide range of camera setups. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport, so you can bring it along to gigs, studios, or any creative location without hassle.
Whether you’re aiming for high-angle shots, low-angle perspectives, or anything in between, the Joby GorillaPod 3K Kit provides the flexibility and stability you need to bring your creative vision to life.
SENSYNE 62" Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick
The SENSYNE 62" Phone Tripod & Selfie Stick is a versatile tool designed for creators who use smartphones for content creation. It combines the functionality of a tripod and a selfie stick, providing flexibility for various shooting styles. The extendable tripod reaches up to 62 inches, offering plenty of height for higher shots or full-body angles, while also folding down compactly for portability.
With its wireless remote, compatible with both iOS and Android, you can control your phone from a distance, making it perfect for solo filming or group shots. The adjustable phone holder rotates 360°, allowing you to switch between portrait and landscape modes easily, whether you’re filming videos, taking selfies, or live-streaming.
Constructed with lightweight aluminum alloy, the tripod is sturdy enough for outdoor shoots while remaining easy to transport. The non-slip feet ensure stability on various surfaces, and its quick-release lever locks make adjusting the height smooth and secure.
This is the perfect tripod for the musician on the go who needs to travel light.
4. Accessories
To take your content to the next level, having the right accessories can make all the difference. From lighting to stabilization and everything in between, these tools help you create professional-looking videos with ease, ensuring your content is both visually appealing and technically sound.
Neewer 2-Pack Dimmable LED Video Light
Proper lighting can dramatically improve the quality of your videos, making them look more professional and engaging. This affordable lighting kit is easy to set up and offers adjustable brightness, making it a great option for beginners. The Neewer LED lights provide consistent, flicker-free illumination, allowing you to highlight your performance, setup, or studio space without harsh shadows or overexposed areas.
The adjustable color temperature feature lets you fine-tune the lighting to match the mood and tone of your content, whether you’re aiming for a warm, inviting vibe or a cool, professional look. Additionally, the lightweight and portable design makes it easy to move the lights around and position them exactly where you need them, whether you’re shooting in a small home studio or setting up outdoors.
By investing in quality lighting, you can ensure your videos are well-lit, vibrant, and visually appealing, helping you capture and retain your audience’s attention.
Insta360 Flow Pro - AI-Powered Gimbal
For smooth, cinematic shots, especially when moving, a gimbal or stabilizer is essential. The Insta360 Flow Pro offers advanced stabilization technology powered by AI, making it incredibly easy to capture smooth, professional-looking footage. This gimbal supports a wide range of cameras and smartphones, providing versatility for different shooting setups.
Its AI-powered features include intelligent tracking, motion detection, and automated stabilization adjustments, allowing you to focus on your performance while the gimbal handles the technical aspects of keeping your footage steady.
Whether you’re walking through your studio, performing live, or capturing dynamic, action-packed content, the Insta360 Flow Pro ensures your shots remain smooth and polished. Its lightweight and ergonomic design make it comfortable to hold for extended periods, reducing fatigue during long recording sessions.
Additionally, the gimbal’s intuitive controls and easy setup process make it accessible for content creators of all skill levels, helping you achieve cinematic-quality footage without the steep learning curve.
Glide Gear TMP100
If you’re planning on delivering scripted content like tutorials and podcasts, a teleprompter can be incredibly helpful. It’s every content creator’s dirty little secret.
The Glide Gear TMP100 allows you to read your script while maintaining eye contact with the camera, making your delivery more natural and engaging. This teleprompter is compatible with tablets and phones, providing a clear and adjustable display that ensures your script is easy to read without distracting from your performance.
The TMP100’s easy setup and lightweight design make it simple to integrate into your existing setup, whether you’re filming in a home studio or on location. By using a teleprompter, you can deliver your lines smoothly and confidently without the need to memorize lengthy scripts, allowing you to focus on your content and connect with your audience more effectively.
Green Screen
A green screen allows you to change the background of your videos, adding a professional touch and enabling creative effects. It’s useful for tutorials and streams, but it can also unlock many creative possibilities.
Using a green screen, you can transport your audience to different environments, whether it’s a virtual studio, an exotic location, or a dynamic, animated backdrop. This versatility opens up endless possibilities for your content, allowing you to enhance your videos with creative visuals that align with your brand and message.
Green screens are also great for adding consistency to your videos, providing a uniform background that keeps the focus on you and your performance. Whether you’re explaining complex production techniques, showcasing your latest beats, or engaging with your audience in a visually compelling way, a green screen can elevate your content, making it more engaging and visually appealing.
Investing in a quality green screen setup ensures you have the flexibility to experiment with different backgrounds and effects, helping you create unique and memorable content that stands out from the crowd.
5. Editing Software
After capturing your content, the next step is editing. Editing software allows you to cut, trim, add effects, and polish your videos to perfection, ensuring your final product is as engaging and professional as possible. Good editing can transform raw footage into a compelling narrative, highlight your best moments, and keep your audience hooked from start to finish.
DaVinci Resolve
This professional-grade editing software offers a free version with powerful tools for color correction, audio post-production, and visual effects. It’s widely used by both beginners and professionals, making it a versatile choice for any content creator. DaVinci Resolve’s intuitive interface allows you to seamlessly switch between editing, color grading, and audio mixing, providing a comprehensive suite of tools that cater to all aspects of video production.
Whether you’re fine-tuning your audio levels, adding cinematic color grading to enhance the mood of your videos, or incorporating visual effects to make your content more dynamic, DaVinci Resolve has you covered. Its robust feature set includes multi-cam editing, advanced trimming, and motion graphics, enabling you to create polished, professional-quality videos that stand out.
The free version offers an impressive array of capabilities that rival many paid alternatives, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious content creators who don’t want to compromise on quality.
In terms musicians will understand, I think Final Cut Pro is the Logic Pro of video editing software, and this is the Ableton Live. Coming from an Ableton user, it’s high praise.
CapCut
A user-friendly, free editing app that’s perfect for quick edits on the go. It’s especially popular among content creators who need to produce content quickly for platforms like TikTok and Instagram. CapCut’s intuitive interface makes it easy to trim clips, add transitions, apply filters, and incorporate music or sound effects, allowing you to create eye-catching videos without a steep learning curve.
The app also offers a wide range of templates and preset effects that can help you achieve a polished look with minimal effort, making it ideal for creators who need to produce content rapidly without sacrificing quality. Additionally, CapCut’s seamless integration with social media platforms allows you to export and share your videos directly, streamlining your content creation workflow.
Whether you’re editing a short-form TikTok video, an Instagram Reel, or a YouTube snippet, CapCut provides the tools you need to create engaging, visually appealing content that looks cool.
OBS
OBS Studio is a powerful, free software perfect for musicians looking to capture what’s happening on their screen, as well as audio from their computer. Its open-source platform offers full customization, making it easy to manage multiple inputs. Whether switching between camera angles or integrating high-quality audio from your instruments and DAW, OBS gives musicians full control over their captures.
For live streaming, OBS integrates seamlessly with platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook Live, making it ideal for broadcasting performances, jam sessions, or fan Q&As. You can enhance streams with on-screen visuals, transitions, and chat overlays, keeping your content engaging and polished.
Beyond live streaming, OBS supports high-quality recording, enabling you to capture studio sessions or tutorials for later editing. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for beginners, while its advanced features give seasoned creators the flexibility to refine their projects, making OBS an invaluable tool for musicians.
Beats, Camera, Action!
Embarking on your content creation journey as a musician or producer is an exciting adventure filled with opportunities to share your passion and connect with others. The right gear can help you bring your creative vision to life, but remember, it’s your unique talent and personality that truly captivate your audience.
Start with these essential tools, experiment, and don’t be afraid to evolve your setup as you grow. Every great content creator began somewhere, and your journey is just beginning. Keep pushing your boundaries, stay inspired, and most importantly, enjoy the process of creating something truly your own.
Your audience is waiting to hear your story—so go out there and make some magic! Whether you’re laying down the next big beat, producing a viral tutorial, or sharing your musical journey, your content has the power to inspire, entertain, and connect with people around the world. Embrace the tools at your disposal, trust in your creativity, and let your passion shine through every video you create.
The world is ready for your unique sound and vision—so grab your gear, start creating, and watch your influence grow!
Cover credit: Jakob Owens