Below is a list of the equipment that I use for my studio productions and my field reporting. You do not need to purchase the exact same equipment that I use. I am just providing you with a reference point. Feel free to shop around and get competitive prices. Contact me if you have any questions or need advise for writing a grant or raising funds. czirkle@wcpss.net
I use two black backdrops.I create a corner with the two stands and backdrops. I then shoot into that corner. I use the type of stand that has a base plate. They are a little more expensive but are sturdy and allow the fabric to lay flat. Remember to buy two stands and two backdrops. You can also use the back sides of the back drops for other sets.
Backdrop Stand x 2
Cloth Backdrop x 2
Lighting is an important element of capturing video footage. Cameras need light, but not too bright. Lights can also add a splash of color to your news desk. I also bought the batteries for my lights. It is nice to not have to plug them in if you are shooting in the field. You can just drop them anywhere without worrying about finding an outlet. I plug them in when I use them for my studio. Don't forget you will need 4 batteries all together.
I do not film my studio productions with web cams. I use DSLR cameras. I will provide you links to the camera that I use. When you are just starting out, you may need to use web cameras in order to save money. Recording with DSLR cameras requires advanced video editing software and skills. Recoding with web cameras streamlines the editing process.
I use a variety of audio equipment to capture audio as I film my studio production. I use wireless lavalier microphones when I film with my DSLR Cameras. I use USB microphones when I film with webcams. I will put a few options. You will need one microphone per reporter at the news desk.
USB Wireless Lavalier Mic for Computer & Phones
External Microphones for Phones & DSLR Cameras
Studio Monitors for Playback & Editing
Tascam Mics for Filming with DSLR Cameras
I use a combination of hardware for my studio style shoots. I prefer to work on my Mac Mini. It has the M1 chip and can handle the editing I do with 4K footage. It is portable and not as expensive as a laptop or desktop. You need a Windows or Apple computer to run OBS. That is the software that connects all of the cameras and microphones. You can also use the Mac Mini to edit your footage. Especially if you plan to film with DSLR cameras. The usb tower that I use connects all the wires to the computer that runs OBS. I edit on the monitor and use it as a prop for my studio productions. The external drive stores all of my footage and projects. The SD cards are for the DSLR cameras. You do not need them if you are filming with webcams.
I love software and I use a lot of it. I edit with multiple programs in combination with one another. OBS is for recording with webcams and USB microphones. The other video editing programs are for filming with a DSLR camera. You may not need all of this software. I am just showing you what I use. One softwareI would suggest everyone have is Canva for Education. That is what I use for my graphic design.