Less than $30 Video Setup

Months ago, when I was first looking at what the lowest entry point for doing effective video was. I was really expecting to hear “you should be able to get started for less than $100.” And to my shock the response that I heard back, was FREE.  To the mind of a video professional this made me really laugh at the guy, but then I had to discover that he was right.  The critical things that you really need to get started to use video on your site – you most likely already have, but if you didn’t you could get what you needed with less than $30.

- – - > Disclaimer < – - -
The kit that we are talking about will not result in media that would become the next blockbuster, or what would be air able on (most) cable access channels.  What I’m talking about here will be enough to get you started with Online Video.
< – - – End Disclaimer – - – >

The Three Vital parts of this $30 Kit

1.) Web Cam

You can find web camera’s starting at $10 – chances are that you already have one built into your laptop (if it was purchased in 2008 — or is a Mac, remember I’m a PC Guy!) You’re not looking for much here – just something to give you a clean video feed via USB.  Something like this would be perfect!
Great list of web cameras under $25 rated 4 stars or better!

2.) Lamp

Yes, a lamp – and chances are good that you have a few in your home or office.  You want one that has a normal bulb in it – not a CF or a halogen!  Also a lower wattage lamp that’s closer to will make it look much more intimate.   Lighting is a critical item so if you need to purchase something that will work then this is a place to do so!  Something as simple as a White Round Rice Paper Lantern will get you out of a lot of trouble!

3.) Backdrop

Simple Black fabric that you can get any fabric store will serve the purpose of giving you a consistent backdrop and take that out of the equalization meaning you have one less thing to worry about!  If you have a well decorated / clean office – don’t worry about this item.  If you have a white wall that you can shoot to then, I’d consider skipping this step too…  The other consideration is that if you are using a backdrop you need to steam / iron it!  There’s nothing worse than a backdrop that  gets more attention than the talent!

The important thing here is that you not use the lack of equipment to detour you to from starting.  In all transparency and honesty – I’ve let that keep me back for far too long, it’s time to started, Get Going with What You’ve Got!!!  The important thing is forward movement and consistency (I’m working on that too!)

Photos Used in Post:
Money! by Tracy O // Web Camera by Terinea // The Leg Lamp by kevindooley // Picture Time by Orin Optiglot