These links may be affiliates in nature, and commission may be granted. The commission has not influenced the selection of the recommendations (these are my personal, unsponsored opinions) and what I use personally! Everything below is OPTIONS. You do not need each of these things for success!

Pro Tip: If you invest in one thing or anything, MAKE IT AUDIO-RELATED. Audio is a MUCH bigger make-or-break than the 1080/4k or the camera you use. Having stable shots, like a cheap tripod (see below), is also key.

Pro Tip: ASK A FRIEND. Do you know anyone with equipment or trying to build their content portfolio for their own brand or company? Education shots and b-rolls can be great on someone else’s portfolio or website with your permission.

A WORD OF ENCOURAGEMENT! ✏️

I bought gear, equipment, and design elements for MANY years of time. Some things I used, others I didn’t. Don’t let the equipment recommendations STOP YOU, and give EVIDENCE to your limiting beliefs about why you SHOULD NOT do this. YOU CAN create something amazing within your means and skills and grow over time.

Filming & Editing Equipment 🎬

• Phone: You can use any smartphone; make sure you invest in a stand or gimbal for your phone and set it to 4 K and 60fps if you have it! 4 K is not the default phone setting, so you must check your settings.
• Pocket Camera: The DJI Pocket Camera 3 is my new secret tool for regular filming, b-roll, and content. If you’re thinking of investing, this is a VERY friendly option (the OSMO 2 is a bit more cost-effective): https://amzn.to/3YI8L6O
  • DJI Pocket 2: https://amzn.to/4dE5x8u
• DSLR Camera: I still use my trusty old Canon 70 D. I really love the 50mm wide-angle lens and the wide-angle lens. Don’t be afraid to borrow a friend or look into local rental opportunities to save money if you have none of the above.
  • Canon 70 D w/18-55mm lens: https://amzn.to/4fH587m
  • If you have a DSLR of any type, I strongly recommend you have a 50mm lens and a wide-angle lens. I personally like 24/28mm.
  • There are many local shops that rent cameras. This could be worth it if you take a very long class or a series of classes to create a brand for yourself on Skillshare. I would recommend using your phone first and investing in audio > camera/film anything to learn if this is your cup of tea.
• Canvas Lamp—Overhead Camera Stand: This is designed if you plan on using your phone. It's PERFECT for shots of demonstration, time-lapse, or tactile work (even showing your iPad work). It's worth the investment. There are some comparable “knock-offs” via Amazon. If your goal is just to shoot overhead ****while working, that may be worth reviewing. https://www.shopcanvas.co/
• Tripod—I love this Amazon basics tripod! I own two, so I can take multiple shots. It’s cheap, but I prefer that so I can be a little more aggressive with it: https://amzn.to/3M3AMhI
• Tripod phone stand - this little guy packs a powerful punch! A great budget-friendly option for b-roll/demo/hand shots if you’re using a phone: https://www.moft.us/products/invisible-phone-tripod-stand?variant=41167395717207
• Gimbal—If you have a phone, I really love this DJI gimbal for b-roll and regular headshots! There are older versions that are more cost-effective. I made this purchase first, and it was worth it! If you plan on doing a ton of b-roll and want to walk around/detach from a tripod for long-term content (like social media), it’s worth considering: https://amzn.to/3YF6hpK
• Teleprompter (for iPad/Tablet or Computer owners): My go-to is leveraging my iPad. I prop it up using things on hand (like a table or crate) when needed and connect my iPad to my iPhone as a remote. If you have a laptop computer to use or borrow, this method will work, too. You can set up your laptop out of shot (ideally) near the camera and connect your phone as a remote. The app you’ll want to buy is “Teleprompter+.” https://apps.apple.com/us/app/teleprompter-pro/id1533078079?mt=12
  • You may need to be mindful if you use your computer as both the audio recorder and the teleprompter. You may need to test out if this is possible and have a second laptop or a long chord if needed for a USB microphone, for example.
• Teleprompter (others): I haven’t used this, but many teachers I know have! https://amzn.to/4clDfyS
• I personally use Adobe Premiere Pro and, in the past, Final Cut. If you are new to editing, please try iMovie (Mac) or Clip Champ (PC).
  • Pro Tip: Adobe Premiere Pro is available on other computer types; you can get a single-app subscription (check the student and teacher discount if it applies to you)! Also, ASK A FRIEND. They may be able to add you to their Creative Cloud for free.

Lighting Equipment & Set Design ☀️

• Pro Tip: Natural light is your best friend, but it is totally understandable if your location needs some light support; frankly, overhead/ceiling lights are rarely good enough. Shoot by a window if you can, but here are some great small investments.
• Ring Light: I really love my ring light; I think this is a great option for someone just starting out. This light has never failed me: https://amzn.to/46Kx0mJ
• Full Lighting Kit: This lighting kit is something I have used in the past, and it is great if you want to start practicing with light placement/soft boxes, etc: https://amzn.to/3yr0QQO