What Is Vlogging? –
Short for “video blogging,” vlogging entails recording a video that delivers information similar to how you would write an article or blog post. The term “vlogging” has been first used back in 2002, but it has not seen any major growth until the creation of YouTube in 2005. The most notable aspect about vlogging is that many important personalities have vlogs nowadays, which they use in order to deliver information, share experiences, and build a solid fan base.
Just typing in “vlogging” on YouTube will show videos produced by Zoella, TatcherJoe, Dan Howell, and other famous vloggers. As a matter of fact, vlogging can bring you over 2,000,000 views per video, which is an extraordinary opportunity to improve your SEO strategy and get your audience to know you. As long as you have the right information to deliver to your consumers, a YouTube vlogging camera, and also a suitable background to record the videos, your vlog can help generate more qualified leads and increase sales substantially.
When it comes to choosing the best vlogging camera, there are a couple of factors pertinent to decision-making.
Step One
HD Video Recording : One of the most important features to look for in a vlogging camera is HD video recording. Opt for a model that provides a nice clear, sharp video, preferably one that shoots at 1080p. If you cannot afford paying the extra money for a full-HD camera, you can also go for one that shoots at 720p, which will also get you quality videos without the price tag.
Step Two
Built-In Microphone : Although most cameras are equipped with a microphone, not all of them offer high-quality voice recording. We recommend that you choose a model with a front-facing microphone, as it allows your voice to project directly at the device, thereby yielding better overall sound quality.
Step Three
Close-Range Lens : When shopping around for a good vlogging camera, one thing to consider is the lens. Given that you will be shooting from close range, you will want a 24mm lens, as it will offer better image quality and make it easier for you to do the recording.
Step Four
Lighting : While most advanced dSLR cameras allow you to set lighting as desired to suit the environment you are recording in, mirror-less cameras do not, which means that purchasing separate lighting equipment is important. Invest in a quality studio kit if you are planning on producing videos in different locations, or in lighting conditions that are less than optimal.
Step Five
Tripod : A tripod will help keep your camera steady while you are recording the video, which will enable you to successfully diminish movement or shaking that can ruin video quality. Although you can consider using other objects for support, a tripod is recommended due to the fact that you can set the camera as desired for video recording.
Step Six
Optical Image Stabilization : Vlogging entails a lot of movement, and especially gestures that can affect the quality of your videos if your camera does not come with optical image stabilization. This feature allows you to smooth out shaking and movement, and provide a clearer image quality while recording.
Step Seven
Cheap Vlogging Cameras - Investing in a good-quality vlogging camera is oftentimes expensive, specifically if we talk about models that shoot at 720 or 1080p. As such, going for cheap vlogging cameras is probably the best solution you have, although you should expect video quality to be less than perfect, and the image to have added noise if the light source is not natural.
Step Eight
Smartphone Camera - The vast majority of smartphones nowadays come with capacitive cameras featuring sensors of 8 megapixels or more. If you own a futuristic model such as the Samsung Galaxy S5 or Samsung Galaxy Note 4, video quality is going to be outstanding, as they both have cameras with sensors of 16 MP. Keep in mind that smartphones are not equipped with video recording features, so you will be lacking lighting settings – not to mention that you will have to deal with no image stabilization. Unless you have a special support for your smartphone, you will probably have to hold the device in your hand during the entire time – which can be more of a challenge if this is the first time you are vlogging.
Step Nine
Computer’s Camera - Although we strongly advise not to use it, your computer’s camera is another option you have when it comes to vlogging. Most built-in computer cameras will naturally produce noise even when lighting conditions are good, and they tend to be sluggish, not to mention that their frames-per-second rates are low. As such, your videos will be lacking the sharp, crisp image needed to actually attract your audience, but they will still help generate leads.