Essential (Mostly Inexpensive) Tools for Creating High-Quality Social Media Videos

One of the most common questions I get is: What kind of equipment do you use? followed by "What do I need?"

Whether you’re recording podcasts, livestreaming, or creating video content, having the right tools makes a huge difference.

The good news?

You don’t need to break the bank to create professional-looking and -sounding social media videos. With a few key pieces of equipment, you can instantly upgrade your content quality.

So, in this issue, I’m sharing my go-to video recording tools—from tripods and mounts to lighting and microphones. If you're looking for affordable, high-quality equipment to elevate your content, this guide is for you.

TRIPODS AND PHONE MOUNTS

While I always say all you need is your smartphone, using a tripod will make your videos look more professional. And it makes recording videos easier, too.

Wobbly, shaky footage can be distracting, making even the best content difficult to watch. Here are two of my favorite tripods.

SMALLRIG TRIPOD SELFIE STICK

If you can invest in only one tripod, I highly recommend the SMALLRIG Selfie Stick Tripod. It’s lightweight, folds small enough to throw in a handbag or backpack, and extends up to 5 feet.

It even has a built-in remote for hands-free recording. Whether you're recording from a desk, a standing position, or on the go, this tripod adapts to your needs.

APEXEL SUCTION CUP MOUNT

This is one of the newer suction cup mounts that attaches to flat surfaces – like windows, cabinets, virtually any flat surface – with a vacuum seal rather than “stick on” suction.

It’s great for recording around your home and in the car. Particularly in tight spaces and when you’re trying to get creative angles.

While you can find tripods at all price points, most are fairly inexpensive. Having a few tripods makes recording in any situation easier. I have about half a dozen, which means I can keep one in my car, carry one in my bag, etc.

But, if you can only invest in one right now, I think the SMALLRIG is the most versatile.

LIGHTING

When it comes to recording video, natural light is as good as it gets. So stand facing a window whenever possible. I try to record in our sunroom, which has glass on 3 sides, whenever possible.

Lights come at all price points. I have a few for livestreaming and recording at my desk, but my go-to for video is the NEEWER mobile phone light.

The NEEWER is a portable LED light that attaches directly on your phone. It’s bright, adjustable, and rechargeable. The light is easily adjusted from soft to bright. It is a bit clunky, so I often attach it to my tripod rather than my phone.

If you wear glasses, like me, you’ll have to play with the strength and position to avoid glare and reflections.

MICROPHONES AND LAVALIERS

While tripods are important, if you can only buy ONE thing, make it a lavalier. Bad audio can quickly ruin great content. People will watch a video with poor lighting, but if the sound is grating or they can’t understand you, they will move on.

When it comes to lavaliers, I recommend getting wireless that will connect to your phone via Bluetooth. In my experience, being tethered to your phone while recording can be both a pain and a time suck.

These used to be fairly pricey. However, today, there are many available for those on a budget.  

INEXPENSIVE WIRELESS OPTIONS

My first wireless was by Bulatry Lavalier Mic. (pictured below). It’s a clip-on mic that delivers decent sound quality at an affordable price.

If you’re just starting out or watching your dollars, there are many inexpensive wireless lavaliers available. The main drawback is that while they are small, they are not tiny and can look clunky at times. But that’s better than terrible sound.  

HOLLYLAND LARK

About a year ago, I upgraded to the Hollyland Lark M2, which is a tiny mic that provides excellent audio sound. The mic itself is two pieces that magnetically clip onto your clothing (one piece on the outside, one on the inside).

The Hollyland Lark M2 is on the pricier side, but it was an investment as I do a lot of video recording. Not only does it deliver amazing sound it has a range of up to 1000 feet.

DESKTOP MICROPHONES

While I use my phone almost exclusively, I know there are some creators who record on a desktop. If that’s you I highly suggest that you do not use your webcam mic when recording videos.

There are 2 main types of microphones, USB and XLR. USB microphones are kind of plug and play. You buy one and plug it into your computer.

On the other hand, XLR microphones require an audio interface, like a Rodecaster, to connect to your computer. While I have seen posts on how to get around this, I’m not sure how well or if they work.

Today, there are also microphones like the SHURE MV7, with XLR / USB connections.

My recommendations are both USB microphones by Logitech.

BLUE SNOWBALL

When I started my podcast in 2020, I got a Blue Snowball Mic. It’s a solid fairly inexpensive, entry-level mic with clear sound. A solid choice for beginner podcasters, Zoom meetings, and casual recording.

BLUE YETI

The Blue Yeti Mic, which I use now, is a step up from the Snowball. According to the 2024 Podcaster Gear Survey by The Podcast Host, the Blue Yeti is the most popular microphone for podcasters.

Right now, I’m evaluating whether to move up to the SHURE MV7, which offers USB/XLR connections.

DESKTOP WEBCAM

Since I know some prefer to record short-form videos on their desktop, the webcam that I use and recommend is the Logitech C920x HD Pro.

I have used Logitech webcams for years and recently got a second C902x for dual camera usage.

NICE TO HAVE

Lastly, a few extra tools that are nice to have. As mentioned, I have a number of tripods that I’ve collected since I started creating short-form videos in 2021.

Gimbal Stabilizer - If you record while walking or moving around, this will keep your shots smooth and professional. (the model I have is discontinued)

Auto Tracking Tripod – I have an OBSBOT ME that I haven’t used lately (it was a Christmas gift 😉) There are many options.

Silicone Sticky Phone Mount –  Low cost tool with suction cups on both sides (1 side phone / 1 flat surface) There are many options in a variety of colors.

MOVING FORWARD

As I tell anyone who will listen, the ONLY thing you need to start recording short-form social media videos is a smartphone.

Beyond that, if you can only buy one external device, make that a wireless lavalier. Based on my experience, you can purchase a decent wireless lavalier and tripod for less than $100.

Having the right equipment doesn’t mean spending a fortune. A few items on my list cost more than $100. Most are under $50.

If you’re just getting started, buy a few inexpensive tools. Invest in more expensive items as you go along.

My strategy is to purchase one item (occasionally two) that I want on Amazon Prime Day. Last year, I invested in a teleprompter I’d been eyeing. This year it might be the SHURE MV7 😉

What’s your favorite recording tool? What’s on your “would love to have” list?

Let me know in the comments!

P.S. Shop my favorite tools on Amazon (affiliate links)

📌P.P.S. Curious about working with me? Check out my 1:1 Done-With-You Video Accelerator Program

5 Top Takeaways (In case you'd rather skim 😉)

🔹A Tripod Instantly Improves Video Quality. Shaky footage is distracting. A reliable tripod, like the SMALLRIG Selfie Stick Tripod, helps keep your videos steady and professional.

🔹Audio is the Most Important Factor – Bad audio ruins good content. A wireless lavalier mic (such as the Hollyland Lark M2 or Bulatry Lavalier) ensures clear sound and a better viewer experience.

🔹Lighting Enhances Your Video, But Natural Light is Best. If you need additional lighting, the NEEWER mobile phone light is a great, adjustable option that attaches to your phone or tripod.

🔹Desktop Creators Should Use External Mics & Webcams. If you record on a desktop, avoid built-in mics. A Blue Yeti or Blue Snowball USB mic significantly improves sound, and a Logitech C920x HD Pro webcam provides solid video.

🔹You Don’t Have to Spend a Fortune. Many essential tools, like a basic wireless mic and tripod, can be found for under $100. Start with what you need, then upgrade over time.

Thanks for reading! I hope you found this edition helpful and relevant.

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Thanks!

Annette 😉