All the cameras, lenses, and tools I actually use — from filmmaking to podcasting. These are my go-to recommendations after 16+ years in the industry.
My Ultimate Creator Guide
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Camera
Sony ZV-E10
Great for travel vlogs or content creation on a budget.
Sony FX3
Perfect for cinematic YouTube videos and short films.
Osmo Pocket 3 (Creator Combo)
Includes key accessories for a complete creator setup.
Osmo Pocket 3 (Camera Only)
Compact 4K camera for minimalist creators.
Prograde sdxc v90
High-speed SD card for 4k and 10-bit recording. Reliable choice for pros.
Sandisk Extreme microsd
Fast, dependable microSD for the Osmo Pocket 3 or travel cameras.
Screen protector (sony fx3)
Keeps your screen scratch-free for any shoot.
Lens
Sigma 24-70mm F2.8
The first lens every creator should own — a versatile full-frame zoom for any project.
Sony FE 35mm F1.8
Lightweight full-frame lens for cinematic b-roll and everyday shooting.
K&F Concept Variable ND Filter
Essential for keeping cinematic exposure control when shooting outdoors.
Tiffen Glimmerglass 1 Filter
Adds soft, filmic diffusion for a dreamy cinematic look.
SmallRig Mini Matte Box Lite
Controls lens flare. Bonus: Makes your camera rig look more professional.
Audio
DJI Mic 2
Wireless mic for crisp, professional audio on the go. Works with LAV mics.
DJI Mic 3
Best mic system for creators and vloggers. Buy this if you don’t need to use LAV mics.
Sony MI Shoe Shotgun Mic
On-camera mic using the hot shoe mount for clear audio.
Shure SM7B Podcast Mic
Most popular podcast mic. Needs pre-amp or Shure XLR to USB adapter.
Shure SM7DB Podcast Mic
Signature Shure sound with a simpler setup. The more budget friendly option.
Shure XLR to USB Adapter
For solo creators with a Shure mic. Plug directly into a laptop or PC.
Scarlett 2i2 Audio interface
Ideal for podcasts or dual-mic setups. Offers clean gain and instrument inputs.
Scarlett 4i4 audio interface
Great for multi-mic or music setups. Supports up to four inputs.
Cloudlifter mic activator
Required for the Shure SM7B if you’re not using the USB adapter. Boosts the gain.
Rode PSA1 pro studio arm
Broadcast-style desk boom arm for Shure or other microphones.
Sony WH-1000XM4
Legendary noise-cancelling headphones. Still my go-to daily pair.
Sony WH-1000XM5
Updated design and improved noise cancellation. Great for travel.
Sony pro Wired Headphones
One of the best wired headphones for lag-free editing and music recording.
Unsure what to buy?
Check out my guide below!
Audio Buying guide
🎬 For Solo Creators / YouTubers
Recommended Gear:
Shure SM7dB + Shure XLR-to-USB Adapter
Delivers clean, professional audio — no extra gear or pre-amp needed.
✅ Plug-and-play for voiceovers, content creation, and streaming.
Shure SM7DB Mic
+
Shure USB Adapter
🎤 For Podcasters / Multi-Mic Setups
Recommended Gear:
Shure SM7B + Cloudlifter + Scarlett Audio Interface
Studio-grade sound with power and flexibility for multiple mics.
✅ Ideal for podcast studios, interviews, and pro recording setups.
Shure SM7B
+
Cloudlifter
+
Scarlett Interface
camera rigging
SmallRig cage (for sony fx3)
Protects your camera and adds mounting points for accessories. Essential pro item.
SmallRig NATO Top Handle
Improves handheld control. Can add monitor and other accessories on top.
SmallRig Nato Rotating Handle
Versatile side grip that rotates for flexible handheld shooting. Fun to use!
SmallRig Nato Rails
Use these to attach handles to your cage if yours doesn’t include any.
SmallRig XLR Handle Extension
Extends your FX3/FX30 handle for better ergonomics and accessory mounting.
SmallRig COld Shoe Mount
Add mics, monitors, or lights directly to your rig. Good to have extras!
SmallRig Cable Clamp
Keeps HDMI or power cables secure. SmallRig FX3 cage already includes one.
SmallRig Wrist Strap
Provides extra grip and stability when shooting handheld with a full rig.
SmallRig V-Mount Battery Plate
Mounts V-mount batteries to your rig for extended power on long shoots.
SmallRig Magic arm
Articulating magic arm for mounting monitors to top handle or cage.
SmallRig Cold Shoe Mount
Securely attaches monitors, mics, or lights to your rig using the camera’s cold shoe.
SmallRig ARRI-Style Mount
Rotating mount for attaching monitors using ARRI pins. Works with top handle.
Monitor
Atomos Shinobi II 4k Monitor
Bright 4K display for accurate focus and color on set. A must-have for starter rig.
HDMI 4k Cable
Reliable high-speed cable for connecting your camera to external monitors in 4K.
SmallRig NP-F970 Batteries
High-capacity power for monitors or lights. Lasts hours and charges via USB-C.
