Brandon Avery’s Recommended Starter Kit for Aspiring Content Creators

Disclaimer: This is my personal recommendation for anyone aspiring to become a content creator. Now, I’ve been in this game for a while, which can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on how much you value experience. I’m a strong believer in the saying, “If it’s not broken, don’t fix it,” especially when it comes to equipment.

These days, it feels like new gear is dropping every three months, compared to the six-month cycle we used to see. Newbies are bombarded with the latest and greatest, being told what they “need” to achieve the perfect shot. But as someone who’s been affectionately dubbed “OG” by my interns, I always say: use what you have to its fullest capabilities. This approach not only saves you money but also forces you to truly master your tools and skills. After all, “it’s not the car; it’s the driver.” Sure, some people drive Ferraris, and some drive Oldsmobiles, but that doesn’t mean the Oldsmobile can’t hit one hundred twenty miles per hour when in the right hands.

So, what’s my point? If you’re eager to dive into the world of content creation, start with what you have and work your way up as you learn and grow. For some, that might mean beginning with a phone and a ring light; for others, it might mean a camera with a kit lens and a tripod. And if you’re not fortunate enough to splurge on top-tier equipment, don’t let that intimidate or deter you from creating—because not everyone knows how to start a Lamborghini, and that’s just fine (another OG metaphor for you haha).

If I were just starting out as a content creator in August 2024, here’s what I’d recommend for a beginner’s kit:

Starter Kit for Under $1,000

1. Camera: Sony ZV-E10 – $789
   This is an excellent entry-level camera for both photography and videography. It’s compact, easy to use, and comes with an interchangeable lens system, giving you room to grow.
2. Tripod: AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod – $25.99
   A sturdy tripod is a must-have for steady shots, whether you’re shooting video or long-exposure photos.
3. Lighting: Neewer Ring Light Kit – $70.89
   Lighting is crucial. A ring light is versatile, affordable, and great for creating even lighting, especially for portraits and videos.
4. Memory Card: SanDisk Extreme 128GB SDXC UHS-I Card – $25
   You’ll need a reliable memory card with enough storage to handle high-resolution photos and videos.
5. Microphone: Rode VideoMicro Compact On-Camera Microphone – $49
   Audio quality is often overlooked, but it’s just as important as video quality. This microphone is compact, easy to use, and delivers great sound.

Total: $959.88

Starter Kit for Under $1,800

1. Camera: Sony Alpha a6400 kit – $848
   A step up from the ZV-E10, the a6400 is a powerful camera that offers better autofocus, more customization options, and a sturdier build.
2. Lens: Sony 50mm f/1.8 Lens – $248
   A fast prime lens like this one is great for portraits, low-light situations, and achieving that beautiful bokeh effect.
3. Tripod: Manfrotto Element  – $97.80
   This tripod is lightweight yet sturdy, perfect for both travel and studio work.
4. Lighting: Godox SL-60W LED Video Light – $109
   A more powerful lighting option, the Godox SL-60W is great for both photography and videography, especially in controlled environments.
5. Memory Card: SanDisk Extreme Pro 128GB SDXC UHS-II Card – $39.99
   For faster write speeds and more storage, this card is ideal for shooting in higher resolutions or burst modes.
6. Microphone: Rode VideoMic Pro+ On-Camera Shotgun Microphone – $299
   For those who want to invest in high-quality audio, this microphone offers exceptional sound clarity and comes with advanced features like a built-in battery.

Total: $1,641.79

Final Thoughts: The most powerful tool in content creation is knowledge. The more you learn, the better you’ll create. So, get out there and invest in your dreams. Meet new people, take workshops preferably at The Social Tour, and push yourself to learn something new every day. Your journey as a content creator is just beginning, and the equipment is only a part of it—what really matters is your vision and your passion.

Hope this helps,