So let’s talk a little web video today, especially the myth that creating awesome HD vids is super expensive.
Here is a complete setup that I use that you can get for less than $315 – including the camera, tripod, microphone, editing software, and more (crazy, right?!). This is the setup I’ve been using lately for 95% of my videos, and now you can steal it. 🙂
Watch below (and prepare to be surprised about how simple it is). BTW, quick favor. Like the video and find some useful info? Sweet! Share it with your peeps on Facebook, Twitter, or via smoke signals. Whatever works.
[leadplayer_vid id=”515047F163718″]
I use RISE partner LeadPlayer for DSG TV, which helps me build my list with video. Check ’em out here.
Here are links to nab everything (and yes, these are affiliate links where applicable, which means if you purchase something I get my choice of a small pony or a Diet Root Beer or something like that):
- Camera – Logitech HD Pro Webcam C920, 1080p Widescreen Video Calling and Recording
- Microphone – Audio Technica AT2020USB Studio Condenser Microphone
- Mini Tripod – Polaroid 8″ Heavy Duty Mini Tripod With Pan Head With Tilt For Digital Cameras & Camcorders
- ScreenFlow – For capturing your video and dead simple editing, you gotta get ScreenFlow.
- App to Pimp Your Webcam – Search for the “Webcam Settings” app in the App Store on a Mac.
Here is an example of a video using this setup.
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Thanks, David! I’ll have to try out the Audio-Technica mic. A quick tip for PC users- Camtasia Studio works great in place of Screenflow! Also, on a PC, the built-in Logitech webcam controls are very user-friendly, so you shouldn’t need an app.
Absolutely, great PC tips!
Hey DSG, thank you. What do you when your video is good but your guest’s isn’t? Do you give them some instructions beforehand so you get good video, or if not is there a way you can make slightly fuzzy videos better on Screenflow?
During an interview? I make sure they know well before the interview to be hardwired in and ready to roll. If the connect still sucks, I go to audio only.
I bought the C910 because it said the C920 wasn’t mac compatible! oh well, it’s a good cam. I’ve moved onto DSLR now but those cams really do get excellent quality for the price
Absolutely. I have both they both rock. C920 being slightly better, but both are solid 🙂
Great info David. Has the Audio Technica mic replaced the Rode Podcaster setup for you?
For my short videos, I love the audio technica. For an interview show that mic or the podcaster are both awesome. Last year I switched to a much fancier setup for my show with all kinds of bells and whistles but it really isn’t necessary.
Perfect, thanks. By the way, I’ve been using the Logitech C920 for a few months and love it.
hahaha I will try smoke signals. or pigeons…Also, is there any chance to watch the videos that you post on youtube on other platforms? Coz in the place where we communicate via smoke signals youtube doesn’t work! I’m serious.
Hi David,
This is an interesting post. I’m in the process of putting together a few videos myself and have just gone and got the Logitech C920 webcam. I’m now in the market for a good quality microphone and have narrowed it down to a handful.
I’ve noticed that in this video you are using the Audio Technica AT2020 yet in many of your other videos you look like you were using the Rode Podcaster. Have you switched recently? – and if so – why?
I’d be keen to hear your feedback.
Regards
Brent Price
Western Australia
Brent see below under Matt’s comment
I never understand why people advise to spend money on Screenflow, when there is perfectly good free software already on a Mac for video editing, and capture of camera and screen video. If money is an issue just use iMovie plus Quicktime! 🙂
Anne – Have you given it a shot? I’ve used every setup imaginable (including imovie and quicktime) and ScreenFlow is SOOOOOO much easier/more intuitive
Hi David, why did you decide to ditch the isight camera in your mac? I feel like mine does a good job but….if I am missing some thing do tell!
Monica – I still use the built in for The Rise To The Top. I use this setup for a lot of the DSG TV videos, sales videos, stuff like that.
The Camera isn’t a bad price at all! I was expecting a lot more 😀
Definitely!
David, my man, great simple video. Easy, I love it. Quick question on what you think of the GoPro Hero cameras? Have you tried them? Heard they were great and pricier…
I have one of the helmet ones. Lots of fun!
David, your so awesome, and your energy, positivity, and get-right-down-to-it attitude is wonderful Im a fan!
Thanks Melinda. That makes my day!
David, thanks for saving me loads of time. Just bought all but Screenflow which I already had. Amazon shooting some webshow love my way! Thanks.
Awesome go get ’em!
David, haven’t been able to play the videos in your last couple of emails.
Hey Ron – That’s weird. All appears good, but what browser are you using?
Great tutorial. However, I am using a PC not a Mac, what programs would be the Telestream equivalent?
Hi dawn – Camtasia is a great option for a PC
Hi David, do your record it on your Macbook Pro? The problem I see is that that the video looks delayed/slow. I have a MacBook Pro i5 but somehow the recording does look as fluently as it should with screenflow or Camtasia. Weird. Any ideas what might be happening here or what I could to to prevent this?
Hey David,
First, thank you and Clay for letting the world know about the Audio Technica AT2020. If for whatever reason you don’t want a USB option, it comes in a regular XLR connection as well.
I have used it alongside the audio technica AT4033a ($400) and you can hardly tell the difference.
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David hi, and thanks for all the tips, ok so I am totally not tech savvy at all, I have an Hp, will it work?
Or do you have any additional tips or tricks?
Also, it is a laptop and I received it 2 years ago, does it have the “OS” or “IOS” you guys are talking about in the earlier comments?