Shooting footage has gotten a lot more exciting (and affordable) in the new age of smartphones and GoPros. The days of a camera that costs more than a mortgage payment and equipment that is bulkier than a 1980s television set are over. Companies are making it easier and easier for content creators to invest in equipment that is portable and light on the wallet.
We’ve listed our top picks for high quality, professional equipment that is travel friendly and smartphone compatible. Grab your phone or GoPro and get rockin!
Mics
Sound can make or break footage. A quality microphone will take your video to the next level. The external source will also allow for more flexibility when editing.
Rode VMPR VideoMic Pro R with Rycote Lyre Shockmount
When it comes to mics, Rode is king. The quality is insane. This mic is compact and lightweight. It is a directional mic that connects to a smartphone and GoPro.
Use this adapter to capture high quality audio when an external mic is connected to your GoPro Hero.
PowerDeWise Omnidirectional Lav Mic
This mic has a cord that clips to your lapel. It allows for greater range from the camera, with a 79” extension. It plugs into your smartphone or laptop. Use this mic if you are stationary (room, train, plane, bus) or the camera can move with you.
Stabilizers
Life with a stabilizer is infinitely better. Eliminate the shaky sweeps and choppy pans. This little piece of equipment will add a professional, cinematic feel in seconds. A stabilizer is a must have in your gear kit.
Zhiyun Smooth 4 3-Axis Handheld Mobile Gimbal
We love this stabilizer because it does it all. It is lightweight and connects to all phones. It has hot keys so there is no need to touch the screen. Some of its features include object tracking, focus pull and zoom, PhoneGo for fast, precise movement, timelapse, hyperlapse, and slow motion. It has a 12 hour battery life with two way charging. What are you waiting for?
DJI Osmo Mobile 2 Handheld Mobile Gimbal
Where were we without this?! What doesn’t it do? So. Many. Questions. This little stabilizer packs a punch. It smooths and stabilizes movements, small and large. It is lightweight (under 3 pounds) and has a 15-hour battery life. Perfect for the traveling content creator and vlogger that requires a solid charge. It has ActiveTrack to follow your selected subject and allows for panorama shots.
Hohem 3 Axis Stabilizer for GoPro
Smooth out shots and eliminate shaky hands with this stabilizer for your GoPro. It has a 3-axis, 360 degree coverage, a micro USB cable, rechargeable battery, and a 5 way joystick.
Tripods
A tripod is like an extra set of hands. It will hold your camera at various heights, without the need of another person.
iKross Flexible Compact Tripod
We love this tripod because it is versatile when it comes to shooting. The flexible legs can level your camera on uneven ground. The legs also can wrap around bars, branches, and rails. It works with smartphones and GoPros. FYI it looks like an alien robot.
Yoozoon Tripod and Selfie Stick with Bluetooth Remote
You might not be the selfie type, but this tripod/selfie stick combo is great for shooting on the go. Need to shoot yourself while in motion? Boom. The Bluetooth remote is a life saver.
Already have a tripod? Use this adapter to connect your smartphone.