🤳🏼 How To Get Started with Content Creation - Creator’s Chronicles #14
A question I've asked myself an unhealthy number of times, especially in the final sprint before shifting from contemplating to actually doing.
Five years ago, I considered joining the world of social media, aiming to become a fashion influencer 😵💫. Fast-forward to today: I've successfully carved a niche for myself in the social media industry. I'm thrilled about my early aspirations, yet equally relieved I didn't get into the fashion niche.
Not only did I establish multiple income streams via social media, but I also networked with like-minded individuals who share ambitious and seemingly impossible goals.
Without further ado, let's dive into the crux of the matter...
The First Steps
If you have a phone or any camera at home, kickstart your journey today. While pro cameras offer crisper footage, it's not a primary concern to get started with content creation.
Your main goal should be to document your life. Transform these snippets into vlogs and publish them. The real challenge for me? Uploading that debut video. Questions like "Will anyone watch my content?", "What will my friends think?", and "Will they find it cringe-worthy?" plagued me.
Push these doubts aside! Remember, in today's digital age, many have uploaded a Reel or TikTok. You're not alone in this journey.
Starting Simple: Hardware Essentials
All you need to start your online presence is a phone and internet access.
Pro Tip: This 30€ tripod not only simplifies filming but also elevates your footage, introducing a variety of filming angles.
As you progress, consider upgrading to a phone with enhanced camera quality (particularly if yours is outdated). Next, invest in a laptop for streamlined video editing. While I don’t like to edit on the phone, some creators swear by it. Personal preferences aside, laptop editing provides more screen real estate and extensive software options, plus it just feels more professional. A bonus? No more struggling around with phone storage issues. I typically airdrop my footage every day (or every other day) from my phone to my laptop, deleting the originals post-transfer.
My current setup? A MacBook Pro 2020 with an Intel Core i5, though an upgrade is planned.
For storage solutions, I rely on two mediums. The external hard drive from LaCie serves as my long-term storage, whereas the Samsung T7 is my editing go-to. Upon project completion, files are transferred from the T7 to the LaCie.
If you're aiming to elevate your equipment arsenal, consider a mirrorless camera. However, choose your brand wisely. Once accustomed to a specific camera ecosystem, transitioning to another can be a steep learning curve. For instance, Sony's user interface starkly contrasts with Canon's.
For starters: Sony ZV-1 II or Sony a6400
For pros: Sony A7IV (exceptional for both video and photos). This is what I personally use!
Golden Rule: Never dig into your own pockets for equipment. Always let your client pay for your gear!
Software Choices
Big names in the editing world include Adobe Premier Pro, FinalCut Pro X, and DaVinci Resolve. Yet, the rise of short-form content has elevated platforms like CapCut or VN as real competitors.
In 9 out of 10 times, I use FinalCut Pro X. And for simplistic videos or story content, the CapCut App on my phone is my top pick. However, a switch to DaVinci is imminent, especially when daily color grading becomes a necessity.
That's a wrap for today's letter. Eager to know your content creation journey or topics you'd love me to dive into in future editions. Drop a comment or message!
Thanks for tuning in.
- Max
🔗 The Link Lounge
A collection of links to stuff I think is worth sharing.
📚 Book - The Art of War by Sun Tzu
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu is a timeless treatise on strategy, tactics, and warfare, offering profound insights relevant to both battles and everyday life.
🎥 Video - From Canon to Sony
This is a YouTuber that I started watching not too long ago and he just made the switch from Canon to Sony.
🐥 Tweet - Dan Koe
You should check out his content!
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