My Overkill Rig: And why I don't regret it
A few things before I start
1- This is not a tutorial or a gear review. This is simply a quick breakdown of the setup I'm using to create content.
2- I agree with the advice that most seasoned creators give to start with what you have.
3- I don't regret it
Talking head and vlogging seemed to be the best style of video for the content I’m creating. After a little research I came across a youtuber named Gabriel VIP. He makes easy to follow tutorials from set ups to colour grading and I’d urge anyone thinking of starting a YouTube channel to check him out. This rig build is based on his set up. I’ll put the total list of items at the bottom, and I’ll make a video showing my build.
The star of the show is the Sony ZV-E10. For a newbie like me, it's perfect. Shoots in 4K. Easy to use. Ideal for talking head style videos. Its co-star is the Sigma 16mm f1.4 lens. It gives you that wide angle blurred background and works well in low light. Combined with a tripod and cage, this completes the frame for the rig.
Second is the audio and lighting. For audio I picked up a mic by Maono with a Zoom F3 field recorder. Audio is as important as image quality. Whether it's talking head or out and about vlogging, sound matters. The lighting is 3 lights. A key light, a background light and a hair light.
So, if this is overkill, why don't I regret it?
1- A while back I watched a clip about credit cards and how they removed the friction from purchasing. I didn't want an excuse like "I don't have the right gear" to stall, so I removed the friction from starting.
2- I'm learning how attention to detail matters in this space. Lighting and audio. Camera settings, angles. This is all part of being a good storyteller. The details.
3- It was fun. Learning is easier when it's done through the lens of interest.
This is an investment. In education, in my brand and in me.
"The only prayer that gets answered is action"
- a savage
Gear:
Camera
Sony ZV-E10
Sigma 16mm f1.4 Sony E-Mount Lens
SmallRig ZV-E10 Camera Cage with Silicon Grip
NEEWER F500 5.5 Inch Camera Monitor
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO SDXC Memory Card
SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO microSDXC Card + SD Adapter
SmallRig NP-F Battery Adapter Mount Plate
SmallRig NP-F970 Replacement Batteries (2 Pack) & Dual Charger
SMALLRIG D to A HDMI Cable (Micro to Full HDMI)
NEEWER D Tap to NP-FW50 Dummy Battery
Audio
MAONO XLR/USB Dynamic Microphone Kit
ZOOM F3 Recorder (Black)
XLR Cable (6FT Nylon Braided)
Lighting
NEEWER RGB62 Magnetic Video Light
Domary W140 RGB LED Video Light
NEEWER GL25B Key Light
Accessories & Mounting
NEEWER ST20 Articulating Magic Arm
SmallRig Aluminum Mini Tripod (20 in/52 cm)
SmallRig Rosette Magic Arm (11 Inch)
Chenyang 2 Pack DC 12V 2A Power Plug Cable
