We are getting close to our tenth episode of #sheraves. I can’t believe it. I’m having the best time and definitely still finding my footing, but pretty excited about the direction it’s headed. Major thanks to you for the support!

Today I wanted to share my vlog setup, some of which is working, some of which is not. But below is a breakdown of what my current set-up is and what I’d recommend for a new vlogger.

Let’s get to it!

MY CURRENT SET-UP 

CAMERA: Sony a6500 with Sony 10-18 mm lens

(see specs here)

THE GOOD

lightweight, beautiful picture, great in low light, shoots 4K, shoots 120fps (slomo)

THE BAD

LCD Screen does not flip out to the side or up so that you can check yourself in selfie mode, so you need external monitor

MIC: Rode VideoMicro

(see specs here)

THE GOOD

works great, always captures audio

THE BAD

sometimes inconsistent on the levels

EXTERNAL ON-CAMERA MONITOR: Sony CLM-V55 5” HDMI On-Camera Monitor with Peaking

(see specs here)

THE GOOD

beautiful picture quality, easy to use, peaking is useful, no delays

THE BAD

makes the camera very heavy if you’re trying to shoot out in the field

TRIPOD: Sirui 3-T-35k Table Top Tripod

(see specs here)

THE GOOD

small, lightweight, durable, easy to place quickly

THE BAD

when shooting vertically, it falls over (you have to hold it or use a dumbbell to hold it into place)

And, FYI, I attach everything onto the camera using this Small Rig cage.

WHAT I’D RECOMMEND

My setup is great if you are vlogging from one location and the camera remains stationary (studio set-up). With the external monitor attached, it is a bit too heavy and difficult to maneuver if shooting in multiple locations, guerrilla style. Also, while I am really loving the a6500, it is frustrating that the camera’s LCD screen doesn’t flip out or up so you can set up your shot in selfie mode. So if you’re a new vlogger that is trying to capture a day-in-the-life type footage, then I would first start with either your phone or a simple point and shoot camera that has an LCD screen that will flip up so you can set up your shot in selfie mode. If you’re ready for a fancier set-up, I am really digging the Sony’s. I’m normally a Canon girl, but for vlogging, Sony is the current leader due to the lightweight cameras and how great the picture quality remains in low light settings.

Regarding tripods, the one I’m using is great, but I would do yourself a favor and get a gorillapod tripod. They are sturdy, can shoot both landscape and vertical and you’ll be able to mount your camera pretty much anywhere.

Lastly, when looking at mics that are not lavs, always buy in the Rode family. They are the best and always reliable.

That’s my two cents. Please leave a comment below if you have any questions/comments/suggestions!