Okay, let’s be straight with you, we are not tech people. If you’re reading this hoping to become the next Hollywood director, then don’t waste your time, this guide isn’t going to help you. However, if you’re looking at starting a YouTube channel or Instagram page and want an honest opinion, then stick around, because this is our not-so-technical guide to the tech we use.
- Main Photography Camera
- Lenses
- Action Camera
- Drone
- Microphone
- Phones
- Photo Editing Software
- Video Editing Software
- Music
1. Main Photography Camera
Since Early 2023 we have been using the Sony A6400. This is an incredible camera that can take some serious shots. We wanted a camera that could take epic images whilst at the same time be suitable for vlogging and capturing that must needed b-roll footage. The camera is relatively easy to use, which for us, as we are not photography trained is a big bonus. Another great feature with the Sony A6400 is that we can add a range of lenses to our kit over time to enable us to capture a wider range of photography and cinematography.
Our first, and previous camera was the Sony ZV-1, a purpose built vlogging camera. However, for travel vlogging we wouldn’t recommend it. For starters, it doesn’t have a wide field of view so it always positions you really close up. Secondly, the zoom function is fixed and is not that great. But don’t get us wrong it can take some pretty stunning photos as long as you work within its limits. What we would say is that if your planning on vlogging from a stationary position, I.e. from a desk or table, then this would be a great option.
2. Lenses
We bought our Sony A6400 with a 18-135mm lens kit which is a great all round lens with mid range zoom function. We hope to get the Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G lens in the near future as well as the Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS which is a more powerful zoom lens.
Wish list:
Lens 1: Sony E PZ 10-20mm F4 G
Lens 2: Sony E 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G OSS
3. Action Camera’s
An absolute must for travel vloggers. We started out with our GoPro Hero 7 which we still use to this day. We also have the more recent GoPro Hero 11 which we use as our main vlogging camera as well as helping to capture additional B-Roll, vehicle mounted shots, and water shots. In recent years GoPro have released a range of accessories that make vlogging much easier. We recommend using the media mod with external mic which helps block out any unwanted wind noise.
4. Drone
We have a DJI Mini 2 drone. Having used it across Europe we really can not fault it. The images it produces are more than enough to lift your Vlog and create a great sense of place. Weighing under the threshold of 250g you are not required to have an operators certificate to fly the Mini 2. The drone has a range of features from pre-programmed shots, return to home function and level 5 wind resistance. Overall a great piece of kit and one we would recommend!
5. Microphone
If you want clean sound then you’ll need an external mic with a dead cat fitted, yes you did read that right. We use the RODE VideoMicro Compact Mic with Windshield.
6. Phones
Our phones are not the most up to date. We have a Samsung S10 and an S20. We try not to use these too often for photos or video, but if we do, it’s usually only for the odd Instagram story.
7. Photo Editing Software
If you want to make your images stand out, we’d suggest using Adobe Lightoom to edit all of your photos. This can really make a huge difference and you’ll find that you can really make your images POP! There are lots of presets you can use for editing, but we prefer to manually edit them ourselves to achieve the desired effect.
8. Video Editing Software
We use Wondershare Filmora 9. It has a very user-friendly interface and has all the features that we need to be able to produce our weekly travel vlogs. We also use this to put together some of our Instagram reels. What we like most about this software is that you can pay a one-off fee rather than being billed monthly like other video-editing softwares on the market.
9. Music
When we first started vlogging we browsed tons of free copyright free music, and spent ages trying to find songs we liked. It was difficult and time consuming! So now we get all of our music from Epidemic Sound. You pay a monthly fee but you have access to so many songs and their search functions help to find the music that you are looking for.
So that’s it, we hope that helps you a little bit if you are deciding to make the move into creating content and recording memories. But the most important thing to remember is HAVE FUN with it!
Keira and Ric x
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