Guide: Creating professional videos and podcasts on a budget

In today's digital age, podcast appearances and talk-to-camera videos have become a powerful tool for SaaS companies and time-stretched Founders to create thought-leadership, podcasts and other types of video, providing a human and authentic face for potential customers to connect with.

In previous leadership roles I would repeatedly evangelise the benefits of having videos in the companies stable. Yet, other executives would be resistant, believing it too difficult to do to an acceptable quality, without the help of expensive and professional assistance.

As a first-time founder, I invested quite a lot of time this year figuring out the best way to create amateur videos, that didn't LOOK amateur. To help you achieve professional results, I've compiled the GTM HIVE guide to the main equipment needed to produce talk-to-camera videos, and some specific recommendations for gear. You can spend a fortune if you want, but I've selected equipment that sits at an entry-level sweet-spot, providing maximum bang-for-buck.

1. Lighting

• Proper lighting is crucial for achieving a professional-looking video. Even the best camera and microphone won't make up for poor lighting.

• Invest in soft, diffused lighting to eliminate harsh shadows and create a flattering glow on your subject.

• Consider purchasing a ring light or LED panel lights, which are versatile and portable options for achieving balanced lighting.

• Position your lights strategically to illuminate your face evenly without creating distracting reflections or shadows.

• One light will do fine, but two placed either side (at 10 and 2) take the look to the next-level.

Recommended gear: Raleno LED £40

2. Microphone

• Clear, crisp audio is just as important as high-quality video when creating talk-to-camera content.

• Invest in a dedicated microphone to capture professional-grade audio. A shotgun microphone or lavalier (lapel) microphone are popular options for talk-to-camera videos.

• Choose a microphone that is compatible with your camera or recording device, whether it's a DSLR, smartphone, or computer.

• Consider using a windscreen or pop filter to minimise unwanted noise, such as wind or plosive sounds (e.g., "p" and "b" sounds).

Recommended gear: Blue Yeti Mic £116

3. Suitable Backdrop

• Your backdrop sets the stage for your video and can significantly impact the overall aesthetic.

• Choose a backdrop that complements your content and reflects your brand identity. This could be a simple, clean background or a more elaborate set design.

• Avoid cluttered or distracting backgrounds that take the focus away from your message.

• Consider investing in a collapsible backdrop or green screen for added versatility and the ability to create custom backgrounds during post-production.

Recommended gear:

Custom Neon Sign circa £200

LED Backlights £15

4. Camera

• While smartphones are capable of capturing high-quality video, investing in a dedicated camera can take your production value to the next level.

• Choose a camera with features that suit your needs and budget, such as 4K resolution, interchangeable lenses, and advanced autofocus capabilities.

• Popular options for talk-to-camera videos include DSLR and mirrorless cameras from brands like Canon, Sony, and Panasonic.

• Don't forget to consider additional accessories, such as a tripod or gimbal, to stabilize your camera and achieve smooth, professional-looking shots.

Recommended gear: Sony ZV-1 £600

Or.... Mac users can use iPhone tethered to Mac via continuity camera. (cost: FREE)

5. Recommended Editing Software

• Editing is where you bring your video to life, adding polish and refinement to your content.

• Adobe Premiere Pro is a powerful and versatile editing software used by professionals across various industries. It offers advanced editing tools, effects, and integration with other Adobe Creative Cloud apps.

• Final Cut Pro X is a popular choice among Mac users, known for its intuitive interface, powerful performance, and seamless integration with macOS.

• RiversideFRM is completely cloud-based, incredibly easy to use, and includes autocaptioning - nice! That would be my recommendation for first time users.

Recommended gear: RiversideFM is very flexible and VERY easy to use. £20 per month.

I also use Final Cut pro occasionally, but rarely find the need to with Riverside.

Conclusion

All the equipment I've recommended is the actual equipment I use myself to produce our videos and podcasts. I'm very much 'eating my own dogfood' in terms of advice here.

Of course, the equipment is just one side of the equation. Whatever content you create needs to connect to your potential buyers in some way. If you would like to discuss where to start in building out your content strategy, contact GTM HIVE.