The Gear You *Actually* Need To Make Good Content
Image courtesy of Cameron Murray on Dupe Photo
We’re here to let you in on an industry secret: You don’t need much to create good content.
It can feel like everyone and their mother is trying to sell you on a big, fancy camera, a ring light the size of your car, or the latest magnetic suction thingamajig that’s guaranteed to make you go viral overnight.
But let’s be real — the people pushing all that gear usually aren’t also running a small business behind the scenes. So, let’s get back to basics. Here’s what you actually need to create scroll-stopping, brand-building content for your business (without blowing your budget).
1. An iPhone (Yes, Seriously)
If you’re going to splurge anywhere, make it your phone. Today’s smartphones — especially the newest iPhones (the 16 pro <3) — have cameras that rival expensive DSLR setups. The difference in quality between models is real, so when your upgrade is due, prioritize your phone’s camera.
2. A Lens Wipe (or Ten)
This might be the simplest but most underrated tip: Clean. Your. Lens.
You’d be amazed how many videos look blurry, dull, or just plain meh because of a smudged lens. Keep a microfiber cloth in your bag, car, or pocket — and wipe your camera every single time you shoot. Your future self will thank you.
3. An Editing App You Actually Know How to Use
You don’t need to buy fancy software — free apps like CapCut and Edits are more than enough. The real investment here is your time. Spend an hour or two playing around with your editing app of choice. Get comfortable cutting clips, adding text, or experimenting with trending audio.
The more you practice, the faster you’ll get — and the more your content will feel polished without feeling overproduced.
4. A Trusty Tripod
You don’t need the fanciest tripod on the market — just one that keeps your phone steady and frees up your hands when you’re filming solo.
There are tons of affordable options on Amazon (even mini ones that fit in your bag). Think of it like your quiet, reliable co-creator — always there when you need a steady shot.
Nice-to-Haves (But Not Must-Haves)
If you want to level up your toolkit once you’ve nailed the basics, here are a few extras worth considering:
A Gimbal: Perfect if you need smooth, steady shots while moving. Great for action clips or behind-the-scenes footage.
A Mini Mic: Want to instantly upgrade your sound quality for talking-head or direct-to-camera videos? A plug-in mic is a simple way to get crisp audio without background noise.
The Bottom Line
Next time someone tries to sell you on an overpriced gadget you have to buy to make good content — remember this: Influencers have ~literally~ been propping their phones against a stack of books or a can of beans for years.
Your audience cares way more about what you’re saying than how fancy your gear is.
So focus on the basics: A clear shot. Good sound. A steady angle. And a story worth sharing.
That’s all you really need.
