You do not need expensive gear to start. A simple setup with better audio, stable framing, and decent lighting can make a big difference! For most agents, I’d recommend starting with three things: a basic tripod, a small light or window-facing setup, and a lav microphone. A gimbal is useful for walking videos, but it is not necessary for talking-head content. Here are some budget friendly options to get started.

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Selfie Stick Travel Tripod for Cell Phone $15

nothing fancy, just something that’s portable and can hold your phone!

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Hollyland Lark A1 Wireless Mini Microphone with both usbc and lightning adapter $60

You can also get the version with just the phone adapter you need for even cheapter!

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DJI Osmo Mobile 6 $95

If you want to take your content to the next level and get buttery smooth footage! You can get even cheaper gimbals by getting used older models on ebay, B&H, or other retail stores online. I have the Osmo Mobile 3 and it’s still working and gets the job done.

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LED Ring Light $30

If you plan on doing lots of talking head content, I would recommend getting a cheap ring light OR just face a large window!

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Flexible phone tripod $14

Another great option to hold your phone! I love these kinds of tripods because you can get secure them on railing, ledges, trees, etc. and they’re super portable. They just take a little bit more finagling to get the right angle.

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