5 Essential Equipment Pieces Every New Creator Needs (Under £500)

Creating quality content doesn't require expensive equipment when you're starting out. After helping hundreds of creators through our grant program, we've identified the five essential pieces that deliver the biggest impact for new creators on a budget.

1. A Decent Smartphone or Basic Camera (£200-300)

Your smartphone might already be your best camera. Modern phones like the iPhone 12 or Samsung Galaxy S21 shoot excellent 4K video. If you need an upgrade, consider a used DSLR like the Canon EOS M50.

Pro tip: Many of our grant recipients started with just their phones and upgraded later. Focus on learning composition and storytelling before investing in expensive cameras.

2. External Microphone (£50-100)

Audio quality matters more than video quality. The Rode VideoMic GO or Blue Yeti Nano are excellent starter microphones that will dramatically improve your content quality.

Poor audio will make viewers click away faster than poor video quality. This is often the first upgrade our successful creators make, and the impact is immediate.

3. Basic Lighting Setup (£30-80)

Natural light is free, but a simple ring light or softbox can make your content look professional. The Neewer Ring Light Kit is a popular choice among our grant recipients.

Good lighting can transform amateur-looking content into professional-grade videos. Position your light source in front of you, slightly above eye level for the most flattering results.

4. Tripod or Stabilizer (£20-50)

Shaky footage screams amateur. A basic tripod or phone gimbal will instantly make your content look more professional.

Even a £20 tripod from Amazon can make a huge difference. For mobile creators, consider a phone gimbal like the DJI OM series for smooth handheld shots.

5. Editing Software (Free-£20/month)

Start with free options like DaVinci Resolve or CapCut. As you grow, consider Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro.

Don't get overwhelmed by complex editing software. Learn the basics: cutting, transitions, and color correction. Advanced techniques can come later as your skills develop.

Budget Breakdown Example

Remember, the best equipment is the one you'll actually use. Start with what you have, focus on creating consistent content, and upgrade gradually as your audience grows. Many successful creators started with just their phones and built million-follower audiences before investing in professional equipment.