The right photography and editing equipment is essential for me to create high-quality content for YouTube. Below is the gear that I use for my YouTube videos, from cameras to drones, and everything in between.
First, let’s talk about my main camera, the Panasonic Lumix S5. This full-frame mirrorless camera offers exceptional image quality and features, making it ideal for both photo and video production. The Lumix S5 offers 4K video recording, dual image stabilisation. The major problem with the camera though is the autofocus, I just can’t rely on it to produce clear shots every time.
Next, I have the Sony ZV-1, which is an excellent compact vlogging camera. This is the camera I used for almost all my Epic European Adventure vlog series due to its size.
The ZV-1 also offers 4K video recording and a fast autofocus system, making it easy to capture high-quality footage, even when filming on the go. The problem I have found with it though is its lack of stabilisation, something I did not realise until after the Europe trip which left my videos jerky and some shots unusable. It is also only 25 frames per second in 4K and I would love it to be 50 so I can slow it down.
For action shots, I use the GoPro Hero 9 Black. This tiny camera packs a punch with its 5K video recording capabilities and HyperSmooth 3.0 stabilisation technology. The Hero 9 Black is also waterproof, making it ideal for use while swimming.
For 360-degree shots, I use the Insta360 One R. This modular camera allows you to switch between 360-degree and 4K modes, making it incredibly versatile. With its compact size, the Insta360 One R is the perfect camera for capturing immersive shots that bring the viewers right into the action.
For vlogging I have been increasingly using the DJI Pocket 2. The Pocket 2 is a compact and lightweight gimbal camera that allows you to capture smooth and stable footage, I actually with I used this more on the Europe trip to have more usable footage.
For aerial shots, I use the DJI Mini 2 Drone, it offers a simple and intuitive way to capture stunning aerial shots. It is easy to fly, very compact and offers excellent image quality, making it ideal for capturing stunning shots from above whilst travelling.
For recording audio I use a Rode VideoMic NTG, its a broadcast-grade, feature-packed shotgun microphone optimised for on-camera use, this sits on top of my Panasonic S5 to record external audio.
Finally, for editing, I use an Apple MacBook Air M1. This powerful laptop offers everything I need to edit my videos, including fast processing speeds, plenty of storage, and a high-quality display. With its intuitive interface, I can easily edit with Final Cut Pro and export my videos, ensuring that they are ready to upload to YouTube.
Music plays an important role in my videos, and for this, I use Music by Artlist. This music library offers an extensive selection of high-quality music tracks, making it easy for me to find the perfect background music for my videos.
