Hello, fellow adventurers and content creators!
We are often asked about the cameras and gear we use, so we thought we'd spill the beans on our go-to tools in this blog post. Whether you're just stepping into the world of content creation or you've been at it for a while, we've got some insights to share that might just help you on your journey.
We want to start by saying that the best gear is often the gear you already have - you don't need to spend a fortune to start an Instagram page or create YouTube videos. Start where you are, master the equipment you have, and build from there - don't let the belief that you need a $6000 camera and lens combo get in the way of starting something you love. Grab a GoPro or an iPhone and just start creating. Remember, it's the passion and creativity that drive your content and as your journey progresses, you can later consider upgrading as you go and as your budget allows.
Let's dive in!
CAMERAS
The Sony A7C is an awesome, full-frame camera that is about 20% lighter and more compact than its Sony A7 series counterparts (making it perfect for travel without compromising on performance). We use it for both photography and videography, and it's proven to be a reliable all-rounder.
Pros:
- 4K Video for top-notch YouTube content.
- In Body Image Stabilisation (IBIS) – no more shaky footage during editing, and it's a game-changer for still photos too.
- High-quality RAW photos that edit like a dream in Lightroom.
- Full Frame capabilities in a compact, lightweight body.
Cons:
- Camera settings don't save between photo and video modes, requiring adjustments each time you switch.
- 4K video maxes out at 30fps, so HD is the only option for 60 or 120fps slow-motion.
Our trusty GoPro Hero 11 is our main vlogging camera when talking to the camera . Paired with the GoPro Media Mod, it offers improved audio quality for clear and crisp sound.
We considered buying a wide lens for the Sony A7C and vlogging with this, but the GoPro is just so easy and lightweight when we just want to grab a camera to talk to our audience on the fly. It can also take a half decent still photo if you're on the run and don't want to grab a bigger camera.
Pros:
- Compact and rugged design, perfect for on-the-go vlogging.
- 4K video capability for high-resolution recording.
- GoPro Media Mod enhances audio quality with an external microphone.
Cons:
- Limited control over advanced camera settings compared to larger cameras.
- GoPros aren’t great performers in low light
LENSES
The Sony 24-70 f4 is our trusty workhorse, this versatile zoom lens is our go-to for both video and photo needs. Its focal length range allows for a variety of compositions, making it the most frequently used lens in our kit.
Pros:
- Great for both photos and videos, offering flexibility in various shooting scenarios.
- Compact and lightweight design for easy travel.
- Constant f/4 aperture ensures consistent exposure across the zoom range.
- Reliable image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors.
Cons:
- Not ideal for low-light situations due to the f/4 aperture.
- Lack of image stabilization may limit handheld shooting conditions.
If you’re looking for a prime lens that’s a gem for capturing stunning portraits and achieving a beautiful background blur, the Sony FE 55mm f1.8 is a solid choice. Its wide f/1.8 aperture allows for excellent low-light performance and creative depth-of-field effects.
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality, awesome for portrait and product photography.
- Fast f/1.8 aperture enables great low-light performance and beautiful bokeh (blurred background).
- Small and lightweight - easy to take on hikes and travel with
- Auto focus is really good, especially for a little prime lens!
Cons:
- Fixed focal length may require you to move around more to frame shots.
When capturing distant subjects or achieving a compressed perspective, the Sony 70-200 f4 is our go-to telephoto lens. Also great for shooting vehicles on long roads, It provides excellent image quality and versatility for a range of scenarios.
Pros:
- Versatile telephoto range suitable for wildlife, sports, and distant landscapes.
- Constant f/4 aperture maintains consistent exposure throughout the zoom range.
- Optical image stabilization aids in achieving sharp shots, especially at longer focal lengths.
Cons:
- Larger and heavier compared to prime and standard zoom lenses.
- Higher price point compared to some other telephoto options.
DRONE
DJI Mavic Mini 4 Pro with RC Controller
Our mate in the sky, the DJI Mavic Mini 4 Pro, has been essential for capturing incredible Aussie landscapes from unique perspectives. Having the DJI RC Controller is awesome too, freeing up your smartphone screen.
Pros:
- Compact and portable - easy to take on hikes or throw in your backpack
- High-quality aerial footage with 4K video capability.
- RC Controller provides a dedicated screen, making flights more convenient.
- Intuitive controls and obstacle avoidance for safe and enjoyable flights.
Cons:
- Limited flight time compared to larger drone models.
- Smaller sensor size can affect low-light performance.
MICROPHONES
RØDE Wireless GO II Dual-channel Wireless Mics
An age-old adage goes: while viewers might cut you some slack for less-than-perfect video quality, they're quick to hit the exit button if the audio quality is terrible.
Clear and reliable audio is crucial for our video production, and the RØDE Wireless GO II Dual-channel Wireless Mics are awesome when we’re filming more formal videos (we don’t typically use these on our Borderland Big Lap episodes, but we love them for informative or breakdown-style videos and Borderland Builds videos. Or if we are creating a reel for a brand.
Pros:
- Wireless microphones provide complete freedom of movement during recording.
- Compact and lightweight
- Insanely good audio quality with minimal interference.
Cons:
- When using both microphones, you aren’t able to adjust the gain on each microphone independently. This is nothing we can’t fix when editing though.
When we capture footage with the Sony A7C, excellent audio quality is crucial, even in instances where we're not talking to the camera. This includes capturing the ambient sounds of the scene, such as the hum of nature or the rumble of a 4x4 exhaust conquering a sand dune. Even if your post-production plan involves adding music to the scene, omitting these natural sounds that one would anticipate experiencing in person can create a sense of detachment for the viewer. Imagine witnessing a door slamming shut on-screen without accompanying sound – it feels strangely incomplete, disrupting the viewer's immersion in the visual narrative.
Pros:
- Excellent quality audio - FAR superior to that of the in-built camera microphone.
- Directional pickup pattern focuses on the subject for clear audio.
Cons:
- Sensitive to handling noise in certain conditions
- Additional windscreen may be necessary in windy environments
- It does require its own batteries
ND FILTERS
PolarPro Variable ND 2-5 Stops 77 mm Peter McKinnon Signature Edition II Filter
With the majority of our videos being shot outdoors, this ND filter helps achieve smooth cinematic footage by controlling exposure in changing lighting conditions. This variable ND is also available in a 6-9 stop version but the sun has to be incredibly bright to justify it, so we find the 2-5 stop to be a better all-rounder.
We also occasionally use it for photography!
A quick tip regarding ND filter sizes - if you want to save some money consider buying one that fits your largest lens filter thread size, and buy step up rings so the one filter fits on your smaller lenses as well. For example, our Sony 70-200 f4 takes a 72mm filter, our Sony 24-70 f4 takes a 67mm filter, and the Sony 55mm f1.8 takes a 49mm filter (so, we bought the 77mm Variable ND so it will fit all of them with step up rings).
Pros:
- Variable ND allows flexible control over exposure settings.
- High-quality glass construction ensures minimal impact on image quality.
- Designed in collaboration with Peter McKinnon, a respected content creator.
Cons:
- Higher price point compared to standard ND filters
MEMORY CARDS
- We use ProGrade Digital SDXC UHS-II V60 250R Memory Cards with the Sony A7C. We’ve found these to be well priced, and reliable.
- Sandisk Extreme Pro Micro SD 128GB: This Micro SD card is a reliable companion for our GoPro and Drone
ACCESSORIES
SmallRig Camera Cage for Sony A7C
We chose to use a the SmallRig Cage for the A7C mainly for the extra mounting points (we like using the SmallRig side handles when shooting video)
Pros:
- Robust cage design offers added protection for the camera body.
- Multiple mounting points for accessories like lights, microphones, and monitors.
- Does not obstruct access to camera controls and ports.
- Built in quick release plate to mount straight onto tripods
Cons:
- Adds some weight and bulk to the camera setup.
A sturdy support system is essential, and the SmallRig Tripod provides the stability we need for various shots.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight for easy transport.
- Adjustable height and versatile positioning for creative framing.
- Durable construction ensures stability even in challenging environments.
Cons:
- Limited load capacity compared to larger tripods.
- Doesn't include advanced features like a fluid head for video shooting (although, with the style of shooting we do, we don’t feel like we’re missing out).
PHOTO AND VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE
Adobe Lightroom (Photo) and Adobe Premiere Pro (Video)
Our post-production workflow revolves around the Adobe suite of products (we also occasionally use Illustrator and Photoshop)
Pros:
- Comprehensive editing tools and features for both photo and video content.
- Regular updates and support from Adobe for optimal performance.
- Adobe is consistently improving their AI offering across the full suite of Adobe products - there are some pretty cool features already!
Cons:
- Cost - Subscription-based model may be less budget-friendly for some users.
- Steeper learning curve for beginners compared to simpler editing software. But if you stick with it, it becomes second nature.
We hope this overview of our camera gear helps with your own content creation journey. Happy shooting!