Vlogging is a powerful way to share your photography journey with a broader audience. By combining video and photography, you can showcase your techniques, share behind-the-scenes content, and offer tutorials or insights that help others improve their skills.
For many photographers, transitioning into vlogging can feel like a natural next step, but it can also be daunting, especially if you’re unfamiliar with video equipment and editing.
If you want to start vlogging your photography I’ll break down the essential video equipment you’ll need, the best settings for capturing high-quality content, and even tips on what to record to engage your audience.
Why Start Vlogging as a Photographer?
Vlogging allows you to connect with your audience in a more personal and dynamic way than photography alone. It gives your viewers insight into your creative process, showcasing the decisions you make while shooting, editing, or exploring locations.
It can also help you build a loyal following on platforms like YouTube or Instagram, where video content is highly favoured by algorithms.
Here are a few reasons why vlogging can enhance your photography career:
Personal Connection: Vlogging allows your audience to see the person behind the camera, building trust and engagement.
Teaching Opportunity: You can use vlogs to share tips, tutorials, or insights, establishing yourself as an authority in your niche.
Storytelling: Vlogs enable you to tell the story behind each shoot, which can add depth and context to your photography.
Monetisation: As your channel grows, vlogging can open up opportunities for sponsorships, affiliate marketing, or ad revenue.
Essential Video Equipment for Photography Vlogging
You don’t need a studio full of expensive gear to start vlogging, but having the right equipment will ensure your videos look professional and engaging. Here’s a rundown of the basic gear you’ll need to get started:
Camera
While many photographers already have a DSLR or mirrorless camera, not all models are optimised for video. Ideally, you’ll want a camera that can shoot in at least 1080p (Full HD) or 4K resolution, and one that has good autofocus for video. Here are a few features to consider:
Articulating Screen: A flip-out or tiltable screen is essential for vlogging, especially if you’re recording yourself.
Autofocus in Video Mode: Continuous autofocus ensures that your footage stays sharp as you move around.
4K Video: While not essential for beginners, 4K provides higher resolution and more flexibility when editing.
Popular models for photography vlogging include the Canon EOS M50, Sony ZV-E10, or Panasonic Lumix GH5, all of which offer good video quality and vlogger-friendly features.
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Microphone
Good audio quality is just as important as video quality. Built-in camera microphones tend to capture a lot of background noise, so it’s worth investing in an external microphone for clear, professional sound. The two most common options are:
Shotgun Microphone: These attach to the top of your camera and capture directional audio, ideal for speaking directly to the camera. Models like the Rode VideoMic Pro are popular for vlogging.
Lavalier Microphone: These are small, clip-on microphones that are great for capturing clear dialogue while keeping the mic discreet.
Tripod or Stabiliser
A stable shot makes a huge difference in video production. Whether you’re recording yourself or filming b-roll footage of a photoshoot, using a tripod or stabiliser will help keep your footage smooth and steady.
Tripod: A lightweight, portable tripod is essential for stationary shots. The Joby GorillaPod is popular among vloggers due to its flexible legs, which allow you to set it up almost anywhere.
Gimbal/Stabiliser: For handheld shooting, a gimbal will stabilise your camera and prevent shaky footage. The DJI Ronin-S or Zhiyun Crane are excellent options for mirrorless or DSLR cameras.
Lighting
Good lighting makes a big difference, especially when vlogging indoors. While natural light can work well, having a portable lighting kit ensures consistency and enhances video quality.
Ring Light: Ring lights are popular for vloggers, as they provide flattering, even lighting, especially for talking-head videos.
Portable LED Lights: Small LED panels, like the Aputure AL-MC RGBWW Mini, are great for on-the-go shooting or filling in light during low-light situations.
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Best Camera Settings for Vlogging
Shooting video is different from photography, especially in terms of camera settings.
Here’s a guide to the best settings to ensure your vlogs look professional:
1. Resolution and Frame Rate
For most vlogs, shooting in 1080p (Full HD) at 24 or 30 frames per second (fps) is standard. If you’re capturing fast action or want smoother footage, consider shooting at 60fps, which can be slowed down in post-production for smooth slow-motion shots.
If your camera supports 4K, it’s worth using, especially if you’re planning to crop or zoom in during editing but keep in mind that 4K files require more storage and processing power.
2. Shutter Speed
For video, your shutter speed should follow the 180-degree rule, which states that your shutter speed should be double your frame rate.
For example, if you’re shooting at 25fps, your shutter speed should be set at 1/50th of a second. This creates natural motion blur and prevents the footage from looking too jittery.
3. Aperture
The aperture setting controls the depth of field in your video. If you’re filming yourself and want to blur the background, opt for a wide aperture like F/2.8 or F/4. However, if you need more of the scene in focus, such as when shooting landscapes, a narrower aperture like f/8 or f/11 will be more appropriate.
4. ISO
Try to keep your ISO as low as possible to avoid grainy footage. If you’re shooting in low light, increase your ISO carefully, but don’t push it too far beyond your camera’s optimal range. Using additional lighting can help you avoid having to raise the ISO too high.
5. Autofocus
Continuous autofocus is a must for vlogging. Most modern cameras offer face detection or eye detection AF, which is useful when you’re recording yourself. Ensure you set the focus mode to track your movement, so the camera stays locked on your face even as you move around.
What to Record in Your Photography Vlogs
Once your equipment is set up and your settings are dialled in, the next step is deciding what content to create. A successful vlog offers value to your audience, whether that’s through education, entertainment, or storytelling.
Here are a few ideas on what to record for your photography vlog:
Behind-the-Scenes of Photoshoots
One of the most popular types of content for photography vlogs is behind-the-scenes footage of your photoshoots. Show your audience how you set up your shots, interact with subjects, and make creative decisions. This type of content is highly engaging because it offers real-time insights into your process.
You could also share tips on gear selection, lighting setups, and location scouting, demonstrating how you approach different photographic challenges.
Tutorials and How-Tos
Photography tutorials are another excellent way to engage your audience. You can cover topics like camera settings, editing techniques, or specific shooting styles like portrait or landscape photography. Break down complex concepts into easy-to-follow steps, making it accessible for both beginners and intermediate photographers.
3. Gear Reviews and Recommendations
As a photographer, you likely have a lot of opinions about the gear you use. Sharing your thoughts on cameras, lenses, tripods, or even editing software can help your audience make informed decisions about their own purchases. Be honest in your reviews, discussing both the pros and cons of each item.
4. Travel and Location Vlogs
If your photography takes you to interesting locations, consider creating travel vlogs that showcase the journey as well as the photography. This style of vlogging is visually appealing and offers a story-driven approach, blending travel content with the art of photography.
5. Q&A Sessions
Once your channel grows, your audience may have questions about your photography process. Hosting a Q&A vlog is a great way to engage with your followers directly. You can answer questions about your favourite techniques, gear, or even photography as a business.
Final Thoughts
Starting a photography vlog may seem daunting at first, but with the right equipment and approach, it’s a great way to expand your reach, connect with your audience, and share your expertise.
As you develop your vlogging style, remember that the key is authenticity—your audience will appreciate seeing the real, behind-the-scenes side of your photography journey.
Take it one step at a time, experiment with different types of content, and above all, enjoy the process. Vlogging is not only a way to grow your audience but also a tool for self-reflection and growth as a photographer.
