I had been vlogging for less than a year and had produced only 16 episodes when I wrote this article. But from the very beginning I tried to absorb as much skill and knowledge as possible so I could make videos I was genuinely satisfied with — first and foremost for myself. Over time I got more and more drawn into the world of single-person filmmaking, and it looks like I will be doing this for a long time. I believe online video content will only become more accessible regardless of time and place, and it can be an incredibly effective medium for getting a message across.
Even though I publish content in all formats, video seems to work better than photos, audio, or text. As the saying goes: Content is King. I agree completely. Having the best equipment in the world means nothing if you do not have a compelling story. But like any field with a strong technical component — music production, for example — having solid gear will significantly help the quality of your output. This article covers the equipment I use for vlogging.
1. Camera
There are several camera categories worth knowing about: DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, and action cameras. Each has its trade-offs in terms of image quality, size, weight, and ease of use. For vlogging specifically, a mirrorless camera or a good point-and-shoot tends to hit the best balance between quality and portability. The key things to look for are good autofocus (especially face-tracking), a flip screen so you can see yourself while filming, and decent low-light performance.
2. Lenses
If you are shooting with a DSLR or mirrorless camera, the lens matters as much as the body. For vlogging, a wide-angle lens is generally preferred because it captures more of your surroundings and is more forgiving when shooting handheld. A lens in the 16–35mm range (full frame equivalent) is a good starting point. Fast lenses with a wide aperture (f/1.8 or f/2.8) also help in low-light situations.
3. Tripod and Stabilizer
For stationary shots, a tripod is essential. For mobile shooting, you have options: a table tripod, a mini tripod, or a Gorilla Pod. There is a wide range of options from under a hundred thousand rupiah up to several million. The right choice depends on your shooting style. If you use a point-and-shoot or action camera for mobile shooting, a table tripod or Gorilla Pod is usually sufficient. Brands like Fotopro, Joby, and Manfrotto offer reliable options at various price points. For full-size tripods and monopods, make sure the height is at least level with your own height. As with most gear, you get what you pay for — cheap no-name options from China can work, but quality tends to reflect the price.
4. Microphone and Audio Recorder
Audio quality is often what separates amateur video from professional-feeling content. For point-and-shoot cameras that typically lack a microphone input, you can still improve audio by using an external recorder running in parallel. That said, the main appeal of compact cameras is simplicity — adding an external recorder adds complexity. The best solution depends on your workflow. If audio quality is a priority and you are shooting with a camera that has a mic input, a shotgun microphone mounted on the hot shoe is a practical upgrade. For interviews or sit-down segments, a lavalier mic is worth considering.
5. Lighting
Good lighting makes a bigger difference than most beginners expect. Natural light is always the best starting point — position yourself facing a window rather than with it behind you. For indoor shooting where natural light is limited, a small LED panel light is a cost-effective solution. Ring lights have also become popular for their even, flattering illumination. The goal is consistent, soft light that does not create harsh shadows on your face.
6. Editing Software
The editing stage is where your footage becomes an actual video. There are options at every budget level. For beginners, free tools like DaVinci Resolve offer surprisingly powerful features. For those wanting a more intuitive workflow, Adobe Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro (Mac only) are industry standards. The best editing software is ultimately the one you will actually learn and use consistently.
Remember: gear is a tool, not a shortcut. The most important investment you can make is in your storytelling ability. But having the right equipment — and knowing how to use it — will absolutely help you execute your ideas better.