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"In 2024, From Hobbyist to Pro Optimal Cameras For YouTubing"
From Hobbyist to Pro: Optimal Cameras For YouTubing
The Best Cameras for YouTube from Beginners to Professionals
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro as a YouTuber, your YouTube equipment shouldn’t be the thing that holds you back from becoming a YouTube star. But, how do you find the best camera for making YouTube videos? What options do you have?
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best cameras for YouTube. We’ll label each one based on what we believe is best for particular uses, so that you can better parse what it is that you want to purchase. All of this is in hopes that you can find the video camera for YouTube that is right for you and what you need.
Part 1: 7 Best Best Camera for Youtube to Make Videos
1. Sony DSC WX350 Digital Camera – Best Point and Shoot Video Camera
Specifications:
- 40x clear image zoom; 20x optical zoom
- Lock-on Auto Focus
- Wi-Fi with NFC3 connectivity for mobile devices
- 4 megapixels
- CMOS sensor that provides top quality images, even in low lighting
- Motion shot video with up to 4k quality output
Description: Have you been looking for a 20x zoom camera that fits in your pocket ? Get the best pictures with the Sony DSC WX350. This camera offers both still photos and video recording, using technology that minimizes how much the camera shakes, even if you’re filming on the go.
Pros: The image stabilizer makes this one of the best cameras for making YouTube videos out there, alongside of the 20x optical zoom. The battery life is quite long as well, which means you can get a lot of content done without any problems. Lastly, you can film in HD, which makes any YouTube influencer happy.
Cons: The LED screen can be quite dim, so it’s hard to see it when you’re out in bright sunlight; be sure you make adjustments before you go outside. There is also not your typical viewfinder installed, so experienced videographers may not like using it.
2. GoPro HERO8 Action Camera - Best Wearable Sports Camera
Specifications:
- Up to 60 FPS
- 4k and HD capabilities
- HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization options.
- Optional Battery Mod available.
- Integrated Mount
- Crisp, easy to use and navigate LCD.
Description: If you need an on-the-go video camera for YouTube, there’s nothing better than a GoPro. With their HERO series of GoPros, they have all sorts of great features that allow you to capture the smoothest video, even when you’re out and on the go. Their top end stabilization makes their cameras the best for the active YouTuber.
Pros: The rugged, waterproof design of the HERO7 is a great option for anyone who is looking to be on the go with their YouTube. The integrated mount makes it simple for anyone who wants to put it on a selfie stick or something else, and it even has a companion app for easy, on the go editing!
Cons: The Wi-Fi capabilities are great, but the video transfer can take a bit of time due to how large the files may be. So, if you’re uploading the transfer, you may want to consider using the USB port instead. Also, the memory card slot is in an awkward place near the mount, so those with larger fingers may have trouble putting a card in there.
3. Logitech BRIO HD Webcam for Video – Best Video Recording and Streaming Camera
Specifications:
- 5x zoom
- Premium glass lens
- 4k image sensor for videoing and HDR with autofocus
- Light exposure automatically adjusts for whatever lighting that you’re filming in.
- Streaming and recording available.
- Enterprise ready for any use.
- Plug and play software automatically installs upon first use.
- Cover clip so you can cover the camera quickly, when needed.
Description: If you need an easy to use, simple to install option for filming and streaming from your computer, then this Logitech is the best camera for YouTube videos of this type. With multiple features and a design that has been made for streamers like you, you’ll always be able to just turn it on, make adjustments with ease, and get streaming in no time.
Pros: The camera is incredibly easy to use and install; it connects to your PC with a USB type C to USB type 3.0 cord (backwards compatible to 2.0). You can easily tinker with all of the settings and such in the included software.
Cons: The arm is designed for thick edges; those with flat monitors or borderless monitors may find that it’s difficult to attach it to your monitor. The software is easy to use, but it’s missing a handful of settings that more experienced streamers would want to have available. There is a crop out background feature, but it can be hard to find and use.
4. PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Camera - Best Mirrorless Camera for Professionals
Specifications:
- 16 megapixels
- No pass filter with four thirds sensor
- Wi-Fi capability
- 4k and HD video capture available at 30 frames per second.
- Aperture and shutter settings are adjusted via knobs, not menus.
- 3 inch tilt and swivel display
- High resolution viewfinder
Description: If you want to have professional looking photos and videos, the PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K is a solid choice for a mirrorless camera. All of the controls make it easy to get things the way that you want it, and it comes with multiple ports so that you can plug it into any device and get it ready to go.
Pros: This one of the best 4k video options out there, and you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on it. The dual control dials and the variable touch LCD allow for maximum control, making it simple to film what you want with minimal editing after you’ve filmed.
Cons: There is a tracking focus, which can be good, but it makes the burst rate (which helps with motion blur) a lot slower. It does have a plastic build, rather than metal, so it’s not as heavy duty as other options. And, you need to purchase it with everything included, instead of just purchasing the body.
5. Sony CX405 Full HD - Best Camcorder (Only) for Video
Specifications:
- 60x clear image zoom with Zeiss Lens
- 50 Mbps XAVC
- MP4 and AVCHD codecs
- SteadyShot image stabilization
- Built-in USB cable
- Face detection and noise reduction
- 7 picture effects for video
Description: If you’re looking for the best cheap camera for YouTube, this is a pretty solid option. It has a Carl Zeiss lens (low light capable) and SteadyShot technology for stabilization. It’s the starter camera that beginners dream of due to its ease of use and affordability.
Pros: The image stabilization is some of the best out there, and it’s got a user friendly interface. Dual recording options make for great YouTube and other social media use. Lightweight makes it easy to take anywhere.
Cons: Connectivity ports are in strange spots, and can be hard to get to. You cannot add an external mic, so you have to use the on-board ones. After extensive use of the ports, the on-board USB cable may have some issues with connectivity over time.
6. DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal – Best Easy to Use Holder for Camera Phone for Beginners
Specifications:
- 3 axis Gimbal that reduces shaky footage
- Ultra-responsive design reacts in real time.
- Easily folds up for maximum portability
- Battery operated ensures that you don’t always need a connection
- Comfortable grip allows you to use the gimbal without discomfort or pain.
Description: If your phone is currently the best camera for YouTube videos, then the DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal makes it really easy for you to use it on the go. This has been designed to keep your camera flat, no matter where you’re moving, and it helps you take some pretty great shots. This is an option if you need freedom in your movement.
Pros: The DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal is really easy to use and compatible with most mobile phones that are out there. With multiple settings and options, you can easily turn your phone into the very best option for getting footage, even if your regular video camera isn’t nearby.
Cons: Some people note that it doesn’t work with wide-screen mobile devices or “phablets” as they are called. Another complaint is that it can be difficult to get used the construction of the Gimbal, but that’s something that you can sort out with practice.
7. Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit – Best Cheap SLR Choice
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi and NFC built in for ease of video and photo transfer
- 18 Megapixel
- Image sensor with an IS of 100 to 6400 (and the option to expand to 12800)
- Full HD videos with manual controls for focus and exposure
- 3 inch LCD monitor turns and adjusts as needed.
- Interchangeable lens, Bayonet mount for tripods and selfie sticks.
Description: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit is an all-in-one kit that makes it simple for you to start making videos right out of the bag. Complete with everything that you need in order to use an SLR well, you’ll find it’s quite simple to get the hang of, and that you have a lot of flexibility in how you use it.
Pros: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit has Wi-Fi capability, offers a great auto focus and is made from heavy duty materials. Plus, it can shoot stills, video, and rolls, which makes it really versatile for anyone.
Cons: This particular set doesn’t have Bluetooth with it, so you can’t connect a remote. Its lens is interchangeable, but you can only use Canon lenses and flashes with it, so that decreases the number of options you have here.
Want to know more about camera? Watch this!
What Gear Do Creators Actually Use | Vidcon 2023 | Sony vs Canon
Part 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a good camera for YouTube beginners?
Sony DSCHX80/B Point & Shoot Camera is the best cheap camera for YouTube that you can find if you’re on any sort of budget. It has a 60x clear image zoom and incredibly versatile video with multiple viewfinder and autofocus options. It’s selfie ready with a multi-angle LCD display and you can customize your setting sin whatever way that you wish to do so. It also comes with pretty much anything that you need in the box, so you’re ready to start filming as soon as you charge it.
2. What equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
- A camera that meets all of your needs and purposes.
- A microphone that is easy to use and produces high quality audio options.
- A sturdy, reliable tripod that is compatible with your camera
- Lighting equipment for the space that you’re filming in.
- An idea as to what you’re going to do and how you’d like to proceed.
3. What software do YouTubers use to edit videos?
There are a number of different options that you can consider if you’re looking to edit your videos well. Here is a quick list of some of the top options that you’ll see them using alongside of the best cameras for YouTube
Beginners
- Filmora : A simple to download and use option which can create high-quality videos in just a few clicks.
- iMovie: Only for Macs, this is a simple to use, intuitively designed video editor has a lot of features, and comes pre-installed on most Macs.
- Adobe Rush: Adobe Rush is a simple to use, browser based, video editing program that is also available as a phone app.
Professional
- Adobe Premiere: One of the top programs out there for editing video, this is part of the Adobe series and has endless options and features.
- Final Cut Pro: A Mac-Only, high end video editing software, many people who use the best YouTube camera also use this.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro as a YouTuber, your YouTube equipment shouldn’t be the thing that holds you back from becoming a YouTube star. But, how do you find the best camera for making YouTube videos? What options do you have?
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best cameras for YouTube. We’ll label each one based on what we believe is best for particular uses, so that you can better parse what it is that you want to purchase. All of this is in hopes that you can find the video camera for YouTube that is right for you and what you need.
Part 1: 7 Best Best Camera for Youtube to Make Videos
1. Sony DSC WX350 Digital Camera – Best Point and Shoot Video Camera
Specifications:
- 40x clear image zoom; 20x optical zoom
- Lock-on Auto Focus
- Wi-Fi with NFC3 connectivity for mobile devices
- 4 megapixels
- CMOS sensor that provides top quality images, even in low lighting
- Motion shot video with up to 4k quality output
Description: Have you been looking for a 20x zoom camera that fits in your pocket ? Get the best pictures with the Sony DSC WX350. This camera offers both still photos and video recording, using technology that minimizes how much the camera shakes, even if you’re filming on the go.
Pros: The image stabilizer makes this one of the best cameras for making YouTube videos out there, alongside of the 20x optical zoom. The battery life is quite long as well, which means you can get a lot of content done without any problems. Lastly, you can film in HD, which makes any YouTube influencer happy.
Cons: The LED screen can be quite dim, so it’s hard to see it when you’re out in bright sunlight; be sure you make adjustments before you go outside. There is also not your typical viewfinder installed, so experienced videographers may not like using it.
2. GoPro HERO8 Action Camera - Best Wearable Sports Camera
Specifications:
- Up to 60 FPS
- 4k and HD capabilities
- HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization options.
- Optional Battery Mod available.
- Integrated Mount
- Crisp, easy to use and navigate LCD.
Description: If you need an on-the-go video camera for YouTube, there’s nothing better than a GoPro. With their HERO series of GoPros, they have all sorts of great features that allow you to capture the smoothest video, even when you’re out and on the go. Their top end stabilization makes their cameras the best for the active YouTuber.
Pros: The rugged, waterproof design of the HERO7 is a great option for anyone who is looking to be on the go with their YouTube. The integrated mount makes it simple for anyone who wants to put it on a selfie stick or something else, and it even has a companion app for easy, on the go editing!
Cons: The Wi-Fi capabilities are great, but the video transfer can take a bit of time due to how large the files may be. So, if you’re uploading the transfer, you may want to consider using the USB port instead. Also, the memory card slot is in an awkward place near the mount, so those with larger fingers may have trouble putting a card in there.
3. Logitech BRIO HD Webcam for Video – Best Video Recording and Streaming Camera
Specifications:
- 5x zoom
- Premium glass lens
- 4k image sensor for videoing and HDR with autofocus
- Light exposure automatically adjusts for whatever lighting that you’re filming in.
- Streaming and recording available.
- Enterprise ready for any use.
- Plug and play software automatically installs upon first use.
- Cover clip so you can cover the camera quickly, when needed.
Description: If you need an easy to use, simple to install option for filming and streaming from your computer, then this Logitech is the best camera for YouTube videos of this type. With multiple features and a design that has been made for streamers like you, you’ll always be able to just turn it on, make adjustments with ease, and get streaming in no time.
Pros: The camera is incredibly easy to use and install; it connects to your PC with a USB type C to USB type 3.0 cord (backwards compatible to 2.0). You can easily tinker with all of the settings and such in the included software.
Cons: The arm is designed for thick edges; those with flat monitors or borderless monitors may find that it’s difficult to attach it to your monitor. The software is easy to use, but it’s missing a handful of settings that more experienced streamers would want to have available. There is a crop out background feature, but it can be hard to find and use.
4. PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Camera - Best Mirrorless Camera for Professionals
Specifications:
- 16 megapixels
- No pass filter with four thirds sensor
- Wi-Fi capability
- 4k and HD video capture available at 30 frames per second.
- Aperture and shutter settings are adjusted via knobs, not menus.
- 3 inch tilt and swivel display
- High resolution viewfinder
Description: If you want to have professional looking photos and videos, the PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K is a solid choice for a mirrorless camera. All of the controls make it easy to get things the way that you want it, and it comes with multiple ports so that you can plug it into any device and get it ready to go.
Pros: This one of the best 4k video options out there, and you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on it. The dual control dials and the variable touch LCD allow for maximum control, making it simple to film what you want with minimal editing after you’ve filmed.
Cons: There is a tracking focus, which can be good, but it makes the burst rate (which helps with motion blur) a lot slower. It does have a plastic build, rather than metal, so it’s not as heavy duty as other options. And, you need to purchase it with everything included, instead of just purchasing the body.
5. Sony CX405 Full HD - Best Camcorder (Only) for Video
Specifications:
- 60x clear image zoom with Zeiss Lens
- 50 Mbps XAVC
- MP4 and AVCHD codecs
- SteadyShot image stabilization
- Built-in USB cable
- Face detection and noise reduction
- 7 picture effects for video
Description: If you’re looking for the best cheap camera for YouTube, this is a pretty solid option. It has a Carl Zeiss lens (low light capable) and SteadyShot technology for stabilization. It’s the starter camera that beginners dream of due to its ease of use and affordability.
Pros: The image stabilization is some of the best out there, and it’s got a user friendly interface. Dual recording options make for great YouTube and other social media use. Lightweight makes it easy to take anywhere.
Cons: Connectivity ports are in strange spots, and can be hard to get to. You cannot add an external mic, so you have to use the on-board ones. After extensive use of the ports, the on-board USB cable may have some issues with connectivity over time.
6. DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal – Best Easy to Use Holder for Camera Phone for Beginners
Specifications:
- 3 axis Gimbal that reduces shaky footage
- Ultra-responsive design reacts in real time.
- Easily folds up for maximum portability
- Battery operated ensures that you don’t always need a connection
- Comfortable grip allows you to use the gimbal without discomfort or pain.
Description: If your phone is currently the best camera for YouTube videos, then the DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal makes it really easy for you to use it on the go. This has been designed to keep your camera flat, no matter where you’re moving, and it helps you take some pretty great shots. This is an option if you need freedom in your movement.
Pros: The DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal is really easy to use and compatible with most mobile phones that are out there. With multiple settings and options, you can easily turn your phone into the very best option for getting footage, even if your regular video camera isn’t nearby.
Cons: Some people note that it doesn’t work with wide-screen mobile devices or “phablets” as they are called. Another complaint is that it can be difficult to get used the construction of the Gimbal, but that’s something that you can sort out with practice.
7. Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit – Best Cheap SLR Choice
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi and NFC built in for ease of video and photo transfer
- 18 Megapixel
- Image sensor with an IS of 100 to 6400 (and the option to expand to 12800)
- Full HD videos with manual controls for focus and exposure
- 3 inch LCD monitor turns and adjusts as needed.
- Interchangeable lens, Bayonet mount for tripods and selfie sticks.
Description: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit is an all-in-one kit that makes it simple for you to start making videos right out of the bag. Complete with everything that you need in order to use an SLR well, you’ll find it’s quite simple to get the hang of, and that you have a lot of flexibility in how you use it.
Pros: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit has Wi-Fi capability, offers a great auto focus and is made from heavy duty materials. Plus, it can shoot stills, video, and rolls, which makes it really versatile for anyone.
Cons: This particular set doesn’t have Bluetooth with it, so you can’t connect a remote. Its lens is interchangeable, but you can only use Canon lenses and flashes with it, so that decreases the number of options you have here.
Want to know more about camera? Watch this!
What Gear Do Creators Actually Use | Vidcon 2023 | Sony vs Canon
Part 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a good camera for YouTube beginners?
Sony DSCHX80/B Point & Shoot Camera is the best cheap camera for YouTube that you can find if you’re on any sort of budget. It has a 60x clear image zoom and incredibly versatile video with multiple viewfinder and autofocus options. It’s selfie ready with a multi-angle LCD display and you can customize your setting sin whatever way that you wish to do so. It also comes with pretty much anything that you need in the box, so you’re ready to start filming as soon as you charge it.
2. What equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
- A camera that meets all of your needs and purposes.
- A microphone that is easy to use and produces high quality audio options.
- A sturdy, reliable tripod that is compatible with your camera
- Lighting equipment for the space that you’re filming in.
- An idea as to what you’re going to do and how you’d like to proceed.
3. What software do YouTubers use to edit videos?
There are a number of different options that you can consider if you’re looking to edit your videos well. Here is a quick list of some of the top options that you’ll see them using alongside of the best cameras for YouTube
Beginners
- Filmora : A simple to download and use option which can create high-quality videos in just a few clicks.
- iMovie: Only for Macs, this is a simple to use, intuitively designed video editor has a lot of features, and comes pre-installed on most Macs.
- Adobe Rush: Adobe Rush is a simple to use, browser based, video editing program that is also available as a phone app.
Professional
- Adobe Premiere: One of the top programs out there for editing video, this is part of the Adobe series and has endless options and features.
- Final Cut Pro: A Mac-Only, high end video editing software, many people who use the best YouTube camera also use this.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro as a YouTuber, your YouTube equipment shouldn’t be the thing that holds you back from becoming a YouTube star. But, how do you find the best camera for making YouTube videos? What options do you have?
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best cameras for YouTube. We’ll label each one based on what we believe is best for particular uses, so that you can better parse what it is that you want to purchase. All of this is in hopes that you can find the video camera for YouTube that is right for you and what you need.
Part 1: 7 Best Best Camera for Youtube to Make Videos
1. Sony DSC WX350 Digital Camera – Best Point and Shoot Video Camera
Specifications:
- 40x clear image zoom; 20x optical zoom
- Lock-on Auto Focus
- Wi-Fi with NFC3 connectivity for mobile devices
- 4 megapixels
- CMOS sensor that provides top quality images, even in low lighting
- Motion shot video with up to 4k quality output
Description: Have you been looking for a 20x zoom camera that fits in your pocket ? Get the best pictures with the Sony DSC WX350. This camera offers both still photos and video recording, using technology that minimizes how much the camera shakes, even if you’re filming on the go.
Pros: The image stabilizer makes this one of the best cameras for making YouTube videos out there, alongside of the 20x optical zoom. The battery life is quite long as well, which means you can get a lot of content done without any problems. Lastly, you can film in HD, which makes any YouTube influencer happy.
Cons: The LED screen can be quite dim, so it’s hard to see it when you’re out in bright sunlight; be sure you make adjustments before you go outside. There is also not your typical viewfinder installed, so experienced videographers may not like using it.
2. GoPro HERO8 Action Camera - Best Wearable Sports Camera
Specifications:
- Up to 60 FPS
- 4k and HD capabilities
- HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization options.
- Optional Battery Mod available.
- Integrated Mount
- Crisp, easy to use and navigate LCD.
Description: If you need an on-the-go video camera for YouTube, there’s nothing better than a GoPro. With their HERO series of GoPros, they have all sorts of great features that allow you to capture the smoothest video, even when you’re out and on the go. Their top end stabilization makes their cameras the best for the active YouTuber.
Pros: The rugged, waterproof design of the HERO7 is a great option for anyone who is looking to be on the go with their YouTube. The integrated mount makes it simple for anyone who wants to put it on a selfie stick or something else, and it even has a companion app for easy, on the go editing!
Cons: The Wi-Fi capabilities are great, but the video transfer can take a bit of time due to how large the files may be. So, if you’re uploading the transfer, you may want to consider using the USB port instead. Also, the memory card slot is in an awkward place near the mount, so those with larger fingers may have trouble putting a card in there.
3. Logitech BRIO HD Webcam for Video – Best Video Recording and Streaming Camera
Specifications:
- 5x zoom
- Premium glass lens
- 4k image sensor for videoing and HDR with autofocus
- Light exposure automatically adjusts for whatever lighting that you’re filming in.
- Streaming and recording available.
- Enterprise ready for any use.
- Plug and play software automatically installs upon first use.
- Cover clip so you can cover the camera quickly, when needed.
Description: If you need an easy to use, simple to install option for filming and streaming from your computer, then this Logitech is the best camera for YouTube videos of this type. With multiple features and a design that has been made for streamers like you, you’ll always be able to just turn it on, make adjustments with ease, and get streaming in no time.
Pros: The camera is incredibly easy to use and install; it connects to your PC with a USB type C to USB type 3.0 cord (backwards compatible to 2.0). You can easily tinker with all of the settings and such in the included software.
Cons: The arm is designed for thick edges; those with flat monitors or borderless monitors may find that it’s difficult to attach it to your monitor. The software is easy to use, but it’s missing a handful of settings that more experienced streamers would want to have available. There is a crop out background feature, but it can be hard to find and use.
4. PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Camera - Best Mirrorless Camera for Professionals
Specifications:
- 16 megapixels
- No pass filter with four thirds sensor
- Wi-Fi capability
- 4k and HD video capture available at 30 frames per second.
- Aperture and shutter settings are adjusted via knobs, not menus.
- 3 inch tilt and swivel display
- High resolution viewfinder
Description: If you want to have professional looking photos and videos, the PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K is a solid choice for a mirrorless camera. All of the controls make it easy to get things the way that you want it, and it comes with multiple ports so that you can plug it into any device and get it ready to go.
Pros: This one of the best 4k video options out there, and you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on it. The dual control dials and the variable touch LCD allow for maximum control, making it simple to film what you want with minimal editing after you’ve filmed.
Cons: There is a tracking focus, which can be good, but it makes the burst rate (which helps with motion blur) a lot slower. It does have a plastic build, rather than metal, so it’s not as heavy duty as other options. And, you need to purchase it with everything included, instead of just purchasing the body.
5. Sony CX405 Full HD - Best Camcorder (Only) for Video
Specifications:
- 60x clear image zoom with Zeiss Lens
- 50 Mbps XAVC
- MP4 and AVCHD codecs
- SteadyShot image stabilization
- Built-in USB cable
- Face detection and noise reduction
- 7 picture effects for video
Description: If you’re looking for the best cheap camera for YouTube, this is a pretty solid option. It has a Carl Zeiss lens (low light capable) and SteadyShot technology for stabilization. It’s the starter camera that beginners dream of due to its ease of use and affordability.
Pros: The image stabilization is some of the best out there, and it’s got a user friendly interface. Dual recording options make for great YouTube and other social media use. Lightweight makes it easy to take anywhere.
Cons: Connectivity ports are in strange spots, and can be hard to get to. You cannot add an external mic, so you have to use the on-board ones. After extensive use of the ports, the on-board USB cable may have some issues with connectivity over time.
6. DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal – Best Easy to Use Holder for Camera Phone for Beginners
Specifications:
- 3 axis Gimbal that reduces shaky footage
- Ultra-responsive design reacts in real time.
- Easily folds up for maximum portability
- Battery operated ensures that you don’t always need a connection
- Comfortable grip allows you to use the gimbal without discomfort or pain.
Description: If your phone is currently the best camera for YouTube videos, then the DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal makes it really easy for you to use it on the go. This has been designed to keep your camera flat, no matter where you’re moving, and it helps you take some pretty great shots. This is an option if you need freedom in your movement.
Pros: The DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal is really easy to use and compatible with most mobile phones that are out there. With multiple settings and options, you can easily turn your phone into the very best option for getting footage, even if your regular video camera isn’t nearby.
Cons: Some people note that it doesn’t work with wide-screen mobile devices or “phablets” as they are called. Another complaint is that it can be difficult to get used the construction of the Gimbal, but that’s something that you can sort out with practice.
7. Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit – Best Cheap SLR Choice
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi and NFC built in for ease of video and photo transfer
- 18 Megapixel
- Image sensor with an IS of 100 to 6400 (and the option to expand to 12800)
- Full HD videos with manual controls for focus and exposure
- 3 inch LCD monitor turns and adjusts as needed.
- Interchangeable lens, Bayonet mount for tripods and selfie sticks.
Description: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit is an all-in-one kit that makes it simple for you to start making videos right out of the bag. Complete with everything that you need in order to use an SLR well, you’ll find it’s quite simple to get the hang of, and that you have a lot of flexibility in how you use it.
Pros: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit has Wi-Fi capability, offers a great auto focus and is made from heavy duty materials. Plus, it can shoot stills, video, and rolls, which makes it really versatile for anyone.
Cons: This particular set doesn’t have Bluetooth with it, so you can’t connect a remote. Its lens is interchangeable, but you can only use Canon lenses and flashes with it, so that decreases the number of options you have here.
Want to know more about camera? Watch this!
What Gear Do Creators Actually Use | Vidcon 2023 | Sony vs Canon
Part 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a good camera for YouTube beginners?
Sony DSCHX80/B Point & Shoot Camera is the best cheap camera for YouTube that you can find if you’re on any sort of budget. It has a 60x clear image zoom and incredibly versatile video with multiple viewfinder and autofocus options. It’s selfie ready with a multi-angle LCD display and you can customize your setting sin whatever way that you wish to do so. It also comes with pretty much anything that you need in the box, so you’re ready to start filming as soon as you charge it.
2. What equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
- A camera that meets all of your needs and purposes.
- A microphone that is easy to use and produces high quality audio options.
- A sturdy, reliable tripod that is compatible with your camera
- Lighting equipment for the space that you’re filming in.
- An idea as to what you’re going to do and how you’d like to proceed.
3. What software do YouTubers use to edit videos?
There are a number of different options that you can consider if you’re looking to edit your videos well. Here is a quick list of some of the top options that you’ll see them using alongside of the best cameras for YouTube
Beginners
- Filmora : A simple to download and use option which can create high-quality videos in just a few clicks.
- iMovie: Only for Macs, this is a simple to use, intuitively designed video editor has a lot of features, and comes pre-installed on most Macs.
- Adobe Rush: Adobe Rush is a simple to use, browser based, video editing program that is also available as a phone app.
Professional
- Adobe Premiere: One of the top programs out there for editing video, this is part of the Adobe series and has endless options and features.
- Final Cut Pro: A Mac-Only, high end video editing software, many people who use the best YouTube camera also use this.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
Max Wales
Mar 27, 2024• Proven solutions
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro as a YouTuber, your YouTube equipment shouldn’t be the thing that holds you back from becoming a YouTube star. But, how do you find the best camera for making YouTube videos? What options do you have?
In this article, we’re going to explore some of the best cameras for YouTube. We’ll label each one based on what we believe is best for particular uses, so that you can better parse what it is that you want to purchase. All of this is in hopes that you can find the video camera for YouTube that is right for you and what you need.
Part 1: 7 Best Best Camera for Youtube to Make Videos
1. Sony DSC WX350 Digital Camera – Best Point and Shoot Video Camera
Specifications:
- 40x clear image zoom; 20x optical zoom
- Lock-on Auto Focus
- Wi-Fi with NFC3 connectivity for mobile devices
- 4 megapixels
- CMOS sensor that provides top quality images, even in low lighting
- Motion shot video with up to 4k quality output
Description: Have you been looking for a 20x zoom camera that fits in your pocket ? Get the best pictures with the Sony DSC WX350. This camera offers both still photos and video recording, using technology that minimizes how much the camera shakes, even if you’re filming on the go.
Pros: The image stabilizer makes this one of the best cameras for making YouTube videos out there, alongside of the 20x optical zoom. The battery life is quite long as well, which means you can get a lot of content done without any problems. Lastly, you can film in HD, which makes any YouTube influencer happy.
Cons: The LED screen can be quite dim, so it’s hard to see it when you’re out in bright sunlight; be sure you make adjustments before you go outside. There is also not your typical viewfinder installed, so experienced videographers may not like using it.
2. GoPro HERO8 Action Camera - Best Wearable Sports Camera
Specifications:
- Up to 60 FPS
- 4k and HD capabilities
- HyperSmooth 2.0 stabilization options.
- Optional Battery Mod available.
- Integrated Mount
- Crisp, easy to use and navigate LCD.
Description: If you need an on-the-go video camera for YouTube, there’s nothing better than a GoPro. With their HERO series of GoPros, they have all sorts of great features that allow you to capture the smoothest video, even when you’re out and on the go. Their top end stabilization makes their cameras the best for the active YouTuber.
Pros: The rugged, waterproof design of the HERO7 is a great option for anyone who is looking to be on the go with their YouTube. The integrated mount makes it simple for anyone who wants to put it on a selfie stick or something else, and it even has a companion app for easy, on the go editing!
Cons: The Wi-Fi capabilities are great, but the video transfer can take a bit of time due to how large the files may be. So, if you’re uploading the transfer, you may want to consider using the USB port instead. Also, the memory card slot is in an awkward place near the mount, so those with larger fingers may have trouble putting a card in there.
3. Logitech BRIO HD Webcam for Video – Best Video Recording and Streaming Camera
Specifications:
- 5x zoom
- Premium glass lens
- 4k image sensor for videoing and HDR with autofocus
- Light exposure automatically adjusts for whatever lighting that you’re filming in.
- Streaming and recording available.
- Enterprise ready for any use.
- Plug and play software automatically installs upon first use.
- Cover clip so you can cover the camera quickly, when needed.
Description: If you need an easy to use, simple to install option for filming and streaming from your computer, then this Logitech is the best camera for YouTube videos of this type. With multiple features and a design that has been made for streamers like you, you’ll always be able to just turn it on, make adjustments with ease, and get streaming in no time.
Pros: The camera is incredibly easy to use and install; it connects to your PC with a USB type C to USB type 3.0 cord (backwards compatible to 2.0). You can easily tinker with all of the settings and such in the included software.
Cons: The arm is designed for thick edges; those with flat monitors or borderless monitors may find that it’s difficult to attach it to your monitor. The software is easy to use, but it’s missing a handful of settings that more experienced streamers would want to have available. There is a crop out background feature, but it can be hard to find and use.
4. PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Camera - Best Mirrorless Camera for Professionals
Specifications:
- 16 megapixels
- No pass filter with four thirds sensor
- Wi-Fi capability
- 4k and HD video capture available at 30 frames per second.
- Aperture and shutter settings are adjusted via knobs, not menus.
- 3 inch tilt and swivel display
- High resolution viewfinder
Description: If you want to have professional looking photos and videos, the PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K is a solid choice for a mirrorless camera. All of the controls make it easy to get things the way that you want it, and it comes with multiple ports so that you can plug it into any device and get it ready to go.
Pros: This one of the best 4k video options out there, and you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg on it. The dual control dials and the variable touch LCD allow for maximum control, making it simple to film what you want with minimal editing after you’ve filmed.
Cons: There is a tracking focus, which can be good, but it makes the burst rate (which helps with motion blur) a lot slower. It does have a plastic build, rather than metal, so it’s not as heavy duty as other options. And, you need to purchase it with everything included, instead of just purchasing the body.
5. Sony CX405 Full HD - Best Camcorder (Only) for Video
Specifications:
- 60x clear image zoom with Zeiss Lens
- 50 Mbps XAVC
- MP4 and AVCHD codecs
- SteadyShot image stabilization
- Built-in USB cable
- Face detection and noise reduction
- 7 picture effects for video
Description: If you’re looking for the best cheap camera for YouTube, this is a pretty solid option. It has a Carl Zeiss lens (low light capable) and SteadyShot technology for stabilization. It’s the starter camera that beginners dream of due to its ease of use and affordability.
Pros: The image stabilization is some of the best out there, and it’s got a user friendly interface. Dual recording options make for great YouTube and other social media use. Lightweight makes it easy to take anywhere.
Cons: Connectivity ports are in strange spots, and can be hard to get to. You cannot add an external mic, so you have to use the on-board ones. After extensive use of the ports, the on-board USB cable may have some issues with connectivity over time.
6. DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal – Best Easy to Use Holder for Camera Phone for Beginners
Specifications:
- 3 axis Gimbal that reduces shaky footage
- Ultra-responsive design reacts in real time.
- Easily folds up for maximum portability
- Battery operated ensures that you don’t always need a connection
- Comfortable grip allows you to use the gimbal without discomfort or pain.
Description: If your phone is currently the best camera for YouTube videos, then the DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal makes it really easy for you to use it on the go. This has been designed to keep your camera flat, no matter where you’re moving, and it helps you take some pretty great shots. This is an option if you need freedom in your movement.
Pros: The DJI OSMO Handheld Gimbal is really easy to use and compatible with most mobile phones that are out there. With multiple settings and options, you can easily turn your phone into the very best option for getting footage, even if your regular video camera isn’t nearby.
Cons: Some people note that it doesn’t work with wide-screen mobile devices or “phablets” as they are called. Another complaint is that it can be difficult to get used the construction of the Gimbal, but that’s something that you can sort out with practice.
7. Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit – Best Cheap SLR Choice
Specifications:
- Wi-Fi and NFC built in for ease of video and photo transfer
- 18 Megapixel
- Image sensor with an IS of 100 to 6400 (and the option to expand to 12800)
- Full HD videos with manual controls for focus and exposure
- 3 inch LCD monitor turns and adjusts as needed.
- Interchangeable lens, Bayonet mount for tripods and selfie sticks.
Description: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit is an all-in-one kit that makes it simple for you to start making videos right out of the bag. Complete with everything that you need in order to use an SLR well, you’ll find it’s quite simple to get the hang of, and that you have a lot of flexibility in how you use it.
Pros: The Canon Digital SLR Camera Kit has Wi-Fi capability, offers a great auto focus and is made from heavy duty materials. Plus, it can shoot stills, video, and rolls, which makes it really versatile for anyone.
Cons: This particular set doesn’t have Bluetooth with it, so you can’t connect a remote. Its lens is interchangeable, but you can only use Canon lenses and flashes with it, so that decreases the number of options you have here.
Want to know more about camera? Watch this!
What Gear Do Creators Actually Use | Vidcon 2023 | Sony vs Canon
Part 2: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a good camera for YouTube beginners?
Sony DSCHX80/B Point & Shoot Camera is the best cheap camera for YouTube that you can find if you’re on any sort of budget. It has a 60x clear image zoom and incredibly versatile video with multiple viewfinder and autofocus options. It’s selfie ready with a multi-angle LCD display and you can customize your setting sin whatever way that you wish to do so. It also comes with pretty much anything that you need in the box, so you’re ready to start filming as soon as you charge it.
2. What equipment do you need to start a YouTube channel?
- A camera that meets all of your needs and purposes.
- A microphone that is easy to use and produces high quality audio options.
- A sturdy, reliable tripod that is compatible with your camera
- Lighting equipment for the space that you’re filming in.
- An idea as to what you’re going to do and how you’d like to proceed.
3. What software do YouTubers use to edit videos?
There are a number of different options that you can consider if you’re looking to edit your videos well. Here is a quick list of some of the top options that you’ll see them using alongside of the best cameras for YouTube
Beginners
- Filmora : A simple to download and use option which can create high-quality videos in just a few clicks.
- iMovie: Only for Macs, this is a simple to use, intuitively designed video editor has a lot of features, and comes pre-installed on most Macs.
- Adobe Rush: Adobe Rush is a simple to use, browser based, video editing program that is also available as a phone app.
Professional
- Adobe Premiere: One of the top programs out there for editing video, this is part of the Adobe series and has endless options and features.
- Final Cut Pro: A Mac-Only, high end video editing software, many people who use the best YouTube camera also use this.
Max Wales
Max Wales is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Max Wales
From Lens to Legacy: Building a Lasting Career in Travel Blogging
How To Become A Travel Vlogger | The Ultimate Guide of Travel Vlogging
Richard Bennett
Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions
Want to become a travel vlogger?
Traveling around the world is one of life’s most exciting experiences – just ask anyone who has caught the travel bug. It is no wonder that travel videos are a big hit on YouTube. Any viewer can be instantly transported to another part of the world, all from the comfort of their seat.
With all the high-quality cameras and video editing software that are much more accessible to the general public now than even a few years ago, it has never been a better time to make a travel vlog.
Below, I have prepared a comprehensive guide on how to become a travel vlogger.
Create Your Travel Vlog with Wondershare FilmoraX
Wondershare FilmoraX is a video editing application that offers a lot of editing features that can be used both by a beginner and professionals alike. You can easily cut, split and trim your video, and apply transitions, filters, and texts, etc. to your travel vlog. What’s more, its advanced color grading settings and audio keyframing will add a unique flavor to your travel vlog. Just get started and make your video go viral!
PART 1: TRAVEL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT
In order to make travel videos, you’re going to need camera equipment. Below, I’ve prepared a comprehensive list of cameras and accessories that would be good for travel vlogging.
Filmstock Stock Media Library ](https://filmstock.wondershare.com/creative-theme-tourism?spm=rs.filmora%5Fweb&source%5Fchannel=seo%5Farticle )
1.1 Travel Vlogging Cameras
How To Choose A Vlogging Camera
When it comes to travel vlogging, you should look for a camera that ideally has the following eleven qualities:
- It has a fully articulated screen (flip screen)
- It has good continual autofocus while recording video
- It has good focus priority through face recognition
- It has touched to focus
- It has good low-light performance
- It has an external mic jack and a hot/cold shoe bracket
- It has optical image stabilization
- It is lightweight and portable
- It has a good battery life
- It is durable and weather-sealed
- It has hyper-lapse/timelapse/slow-motion shooting modes
For more information on why a lot of these features are ideal to have in a vlogging camera, check out my post on the Top 15 Best Cameras for Vlogging 2020 .
Cameras That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Considering my list on what to look for in a travel vlogging camera, I’ve prepared a table below of thirteen cameras I’d recommend for travel vlogging:
| Camera | Release Date | Camera Type | Flip Screen | Mic Port | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CanonEOSM50 |  |
February2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumixDC-GH5S |  |
January2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$$ |
| GoProHero6 Black |  |
September2017 | Action Camera | No | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM100 |  |
August2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS6D Mark II |  |
June2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonEOS RebelSL2 |  |
June2017 | Compact SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $ |
| CanonEOS RebelT7i |  |
February2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM6 |  |
February2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | Yes | $ |
| SonyCyber-Shot DSCRX 100 V |  |
October2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCG85 |  |
September2016 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCLX10 |  |
September2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS80D |  |
February2016 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonPowerShotG7 X Mark II |  |
February2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
Lenses That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Every travel vlogger should have a wide-angle lens. Wide-angle lenses fit much more of a scene into your camera frame, making it ideal for capturing establishing shots. You’ll also need a wide-angle lens if you plan on holding your camera out in front of yourself with an extended arm to get selfie footage.
As a travel vlogger, you’ll also want to show some close-up shots of the various subjects in your scene. If you don’t mind walking up to these subjects, the lens I recommend for this is a standard lens.
If, however, you want to be able to shoot these close-up shots from a farther distance, you’ll need a telephoto lens.
But you probably don’t want to carry and switch so many lenses as you travel, right? A convenient solution is to get a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. For example, travel vlogger Sam Kolder shoots with a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens – that’s a wide-angle lens, standard lens, and telephoto lens all in one lens!
If most of your travel video shooting will be done handheld, you should also definitely look for a lens equipped with optical image stabilization.
Check out my Best Camera Lens for YouTube to gain a more in-depth understanding of lenses and how they work.
1.2 Travel Vlogging Accessories
Camera Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
 |
1. Tripod Record stabilized shots and timelapse footage with a tripod. |
|---|---|
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2. GorillaPod SLR-Zoom with Ballhead Wrap your camera around structures that your regular tripod can’t stay on. You can also hold out your camera further away from you using the GorillaPod as a selfie stick to fit in more of your background into your selfie shot. |
 |
3. Stabilizing Gimbal Get super-smooth shots with a stabilizing gimbal. |
 |
4. On-Camera LED Light Is there not enough light? Add an LED light to your camera’s hot/cold shoe. |
 |
5. Neutral Density (ND) Filters Is it too bright outside to have your aperture wide open but you still want to get that cinematic look ? You can add ND filters to your lenses so that you can do just that in very bright conditions. |
 |
6. Camera Cleaning Kit While traveling, you can get all kinds of unwanted substances on your lens and in your camera like dust, dirt, fingerprints, raindrops, snow, and sand, to name a few. If you bring along a portable camera cleaning kit with you on your travels, you can remove those things immediately so that your shots won’t be affected. |
 |
7. Drone When it comes to travel vlogging, wide shots that establish the scene and setting are important. Drones are great for taking these kinds of wide shots from high places that you would not be able to get to by foot. |
Smartphone Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Using your smartphone as a travel vlogging device is a great idea! Your smartphone is a light and portable piece of equipment that you likely have with you at all times. Upgrade your smartphone travel vlogging setup with any of these 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers:
- RAVPower Portable Charger
- Arkon Tripod Mount
- Mega Tiny Anti-Gravity Case
- FLII Selfie Ring Light
- Rode VideoMic Me
- Aukey Optic 3-in-1 Smartphone Lens Set
- iOgrapher Go for Android and iPhone
- Manfrotto TwistGrip System
- Zhiyun Smooth-Q 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
Read more about each one of these items in my post The 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers .
Camera Mounted Shotgun Microphones for Travel Vlogging
 |
 |
 |
 |
|---|
These four shotgun microphones can mount directly onto your camera’s hot/cold shoe:
- Rode VideoMic Go
- Shure VP83
- Rode VideoMic Pro+
- Sennheiser MKE 440
Read more about each one of them in our post about The 19 Best YouTube Microphones 2020 – Options for Music, Voiceovers, Vlogging, and more!
Other Useful Travel Vlogging Accessories
- Camera backpack
- Extra batteries
- Memory cards
- External hard drive
- Power plugs and cables
- USB card reader
- Universal plug
- D-ring clips (to prevent your equipment from slipping out of your grasp)
- Smartphone SD card tray key (if you’re storing your recorded footage in your SD card)
PART 2: TRAVEL VLOGGING IDEAS
If you’re needing some travel video ideas either to get you started or to bring some fresh content into your channel, here are ten travel video ideas that you can try.
1. Travel Vlog
Travel vlogging, the kind where you film yourself just going about your day in a different part of the world, is a great way to not only document your travel moments and memories for yourself, but also a great way to share your experience with others.
Rather than being too picky with your video shots and possibly ending up with a lack of footage to work with, shoot as much as you can.
Try to capture your thoughts and feelings around the things you taste, smell, see and hear. Sharing these details can help your viewers feel more like they’re with you on your travels.
2. Tips or Tricks for Traveling
Although learning from mistakes during your travels can be a rewarding experience, most people want to avoid them and, rather, enjoy their trip as much as they possibly can. After all, travel, for most people, happens in intervals that seem too short. You can help this sizable group by offering travel tips and tricks.
Prepare a list of tips and tricks, a shot list of all the footage you’ll need to go along with those tips, and then capture all your footage. As you go through your list, you can then cut away to your associated travel shots.
3. Video Tour of a Location
Many people are curious about different parts of the world and would love to join a tour without the high cost of flights, hotels, meals, and admission tickets. Give them that experience by making a video tour.
4. Review An Attraction or Experience
A lot of travelers having a limited amount of time and money to enjoy their chosen travel destinations want to know which attractions and experiences to prioritize and which ones to skip. Help them make their decision by making a video review.
5. Timelapse Videos
All you need in addition to your camera is a tripod to get started with making timelapse videos. Your tripod stabilizes your shot as your camera captures all the changes that take place in a given location.
When your footage is sped up, your viewers can appreciate all the changes that take place that they may not have had the patience to sit through in real-time. It’s also interesting to observe the passage of time in a different way.
6. Average Daily Cost
Before going on a trip, many people try to make a budget and figure out how much money to exchange into foreign currency. Making a good budget and getting just enough foreign cash, though, requires you to know how much, on average, things cost.
Make a helpful video on the average cost of daily expenses including meals and transportation like Paolo did in the above video “Average Daily Cost in Tokyo Japan | Is it Expensive?.” His video actually helped me a lot when I was trying to come up with a budget for my recent trip to Japan.
7. Interview Locals
People don’t travel only to see popular attractions. A lot of people travel to connect with and understand people from different parts of the world.
Interviewing locals and sharing their thoughts can help to provide that kind of connection.
8. What’s in My Backpack?
Packing for a trip can say a lot about who you are as a person because it involves prioritizing items based on your personal values.
For your next trip, share a little part of yourself with your audience through a video about the things you’ve packed in your bag.
9. Talk About Your Own Home City
When you’ve lived in your own home city for so long, you might forget that people all over the world may marvel at the things you take for granted because all those things just happen to be at your doorstep.
Take advantage of the expert that you already are in your own home city and make an informative video for others who are taking a trip there.
10. How To Become a Travel Vlogger
After you’ve done a lot of travel vlogging and learned so much along the way, you can make a video about how to be a travel vlogger.
In the above video, Andrew Santos teaches how to make a travel video, all while hilariously poking fun at many of the cliché trends in the travel genre.
PART 3: TRAVEL VIDEO EDITING
Video Editing Software
When it comes to editing your travel video together, there are different kinds of software you can do that with.
| FREE VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE | PAID VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE |
|---|---|
| OpenShot Video Editor (Windows, Mac, Linux) ShotCut (Windows, Mac, Linux) Hitfilm Express (Windows, Mac) VideoPad Video Editor (Windows) Lightworks (Windows, Mac, Linux) VSDC Video Editor (Windows) Machete Video Editor Lite (Windows) Avidemux (Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD) Read more about each software in our post about The Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube – Top 8 Reviews . | Wondershare Filmora X (Windows, Mac) - start at $49.99 for one year license and Free trial Final Cut Pro (Mac) - $299.99, Free trial Vegas Movie Studio (Windows) - $49.99 |
Travel-Themed Video Effects
If you use Filmora Video Editor, you can also take advantage of a variety of travel-themed video effects packs, like the one shown in the above video, filled with titles, transitions, filters, overlays, and other visual elements.
For my recent trip to Japan, I actually used Filmora Effects’ Japanese set.
At the 2:10 mark of the above video, I used an overlay of falling cherry blossom leaves. At the 3:03 mark of the same video, I used an anime-themed overlay.
At the 2:48 mark of the above video, I used a shoji door transition.
Music Libraries
Music is an important component of a lot of travel videos. Here’s where you can get them:
| ROYALTY-FREE MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID SUBSCRIPTION MUSIC LIBRARIES |
|---|---|---|
| Audionautix Bensound dig.ccMixter Free Music Archive Free Stock Music Incompetech Josh Woodward Moby Gratis Musopen Purple Planet Music TeknoAXE YouTube Audio Library | Premium Beat Audio Jungle | Audio Network Audio Blocks Epidemic Sound |
Sound Effects
Free Sound Effect Sites
PART 4: TRAVEL VLOGGING TIPS
Vlog/Life Balance
- Give yourself more time at each location if you want to have a good balance between getting the shots you need and enjoying your present moment.
Theft Prevention
- Carry a backpack that doesn’t have zippers on the outside that thieves can easily get to.
- If you’re shooting with a flashy smartphone, make it look less appealing to thieves with a grotesque smartphone case, like an Otterbox.
- In locations with high crime, pre-plan the shots you want to capture and take your SLR camera out of your bag only to take those shots. Otherwise, keep your SLR camera concealed.
- Never leave your equipment unattended in a visible area, not even in a locked car.
Pre-Production and Planning
- Before shooting, make a shot list of all the footage you need.
- Have all your filming equipment that needs to be calibrated all calibrated and ready to use.
Onscreen Performance
- Look into your lens, not the projected image of yourself on your camera’s flip screen.
- Show a lot of energy as you film yourself.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, keep your talking head clips short and gradually build your way up to longer clips. You can break up longer sentences by saying a few words from one scene, saying a few more in another, and finishing off your last words, again, in another scene. Later, in editing, you can stitch all of those clips together to make one fluid sentence.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, you can capture your talking headshots later when you find a more secluded space.
Audio Recording
- Silence everything you don’t want your mic to record.
- Put your mobile phone in airplane mode.
- Block wind from reaching your mic with windscreens and dead cats.
- Upgrade your mic.
- Adjust your levels.
- Get close to the sound you are wanting to record.
Check out 10 Recording Tips to Get The Best Sound From Your Microphone for more audio recording tips.
Filming
- To avoid crowds, wake up early and grab your footage early while everyone else is still sleeping or getting ready.
- Capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-up shots for better coverage.
- Use the Sun Seeker app to set up your sunrise/sunset shots better.
- If your camera can record 4K footage, record in 4K all the scenes that you want to zoom in closer later in editing without losing quality (your video project in editing has to be at 1920p x 1080p for this to work).
Stabilization
- If you’re trying to get shots with movement by walking, rather than walking as you normally would walk with your knees bent for steadier shots.
- If you’re shooting something in front of your handheld, lean your arm against your own body for steadier shots.
- Use a stabilizing gimbal with your camera.
Timelapse/Hyperlapse
- Select scenes where you can see a lot of change over time (not a still building in front of a cloudless smoggy sky).
- Set longer intervals for scenes that change very slowly over time.
- Pre-set your focus. Turn autofocus off.
- Shoot time-lapses/hyper-lapses in manual mode to prevent the flickering that occurs with changing light conditions in automatic settings.
- If your camera is set on a tripod in a fixed position, turn your optical image stabilization off.
- If you aren’t holding onto your camera as it’s in the middle of making a timelapse video, at least keep your camera and tripod attached by some kind of leash mechanism.
- For moving time-lapses or hyper-lapses, try to keep one point of reference in the same position within your camera frame.
Slow Motion
- Shoot slow-motion videos when there is plenty of light.
- For actions that are as slow as walking, slowing down your footage to 50% of the original speed looks good enough. If your video editing project is in 30 fps, shooting your video in 60 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. If your video editing project is in 60 fps, shooting your video in 120 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. Any slower is overkill for slowing down the speed of walking.
- For actions that are as fast as water splashing, slowing down your footage as little as 15% of the original speed can look good. For a video editing project in 30 fps, you would need a camera that can shoot at up to 240 fps to slow your footage down this much.
Storage and Back-Up
- If you’re using a phone that can store images and videos on a separate SD card, take advantage of that and record your travel footage onto your SD card. Later, you can easily get to your travel media as it will all be in one place.
- If you have your laptop on you, regularly transfer your media files from your cameras to your external hard drives.
- If you don’t want to bring your laptop on your trip and plan to video edit once you’re back home, use a USB memory card reader that connects with an app on your phone to transfer your files into your external hard drive.
- If you have access to a reliable internet connection and you leave your laptop at your place of accommodation, have your computer upload your files onto cloud storage while you are out to travel vlogging.
- Take advantage of Google Photos’ free, unlimited cloud storage for video files up to 1080p.
Video Editing
- If you’re editing a video project with videos from multiple different cameras, make sure to set the correct time and date on all of them before you start filming. Later, in editing, you can import all your image and video files and sort them in the exact order that they were taken.
- If your video editing software can work with proxies, transcode all your video files into proxy files for much faster editing.
Posting On YouTube
- Choose a title that people will search for. Keep your target keywords at the beginning of your title. “S01E01: My Summer Backpacking Trip” is not an effective title. Instead, a title like “Going Up The Eiffel Tower… Beautiful View of Paris!” would be better.
Ready to Become a Travel Vlogger?
Here in this article, I shared travel vlogging cameras &accessories, travel video ideas& resources, and travel vlogging tips. Did you get more hints to become a travel vlogger? Stay tuned and start your own travel vlog! Leave your comments below if you have any suggestions about this travel vlogger guide.
This past year has been a challenge, so if you want to make a #travelanywhere video without traveling, you can try Wondershare Filmora X video editor.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions
Want to become a travel vlogger?
Traveling around the world is one of life’s most exciting experiences – just ask anyone who has caught the travel bug. It is no wonder that travel videos are a big hit on YouTube. Any viewer can be instantly transported to another part of the world, all from the comfort of their seat.
With all the high-quality cameras and video editing software that are much more accessible to the general public now than even a few years ago, it has never been a better time to make a travel vlog.
Below, I have prepared a comprehensive guide on how to become a travel vlogger.
Create Your Travel Vlog with Wondershare FilmoraX
Wondershare FilmoraX is a video editing application that offers a lot of editing features that can be used both by a beginner and professionals alike. You can easily cut, split and trim your video, and apply transitions, filters, and texts, etc. to your travel vlog. What’s more, its advanced color grading settings and audio keyframing will add a unique flavor to your travel vlog. Just get started and make your video go viral!
PART 1: TRAVEL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT
In order to make travel videos, you’re going to need camera equipment. Below, I’ve prepared a comprehensive list of cameras and accessories that would be good for travel vlogging.
Filmstock Stock Media Library ](https://filmstock.wondershare.com/creative-theme-tourism?spm=rs.filmora%5Fweb&source%5Fchannel=seo%5Farticle )
1.1 Travel Vlogging Cameras
How To Choose A Vlogging Camera
When it comes to travel vlogging, you should look for a camera that ideally has the following eleven qualities:
- It has a fully articulated screen (flip screen)
- It has good continual autofocus while recording video
- It has good focus priority through face recognition
- It has touched to focus
- It has good low-light performance
- It has an external mic jack and a hot/cold shoe bracket
- It has optical image stabilization
- It is lightweight and portable
- It has a good battery life
- It is durable and weather-sealed
- It has hyper-lapse/timelapse/slow-motion shooting modes
For more information on why a lot of these features are ideal to have in a vlogging camera, check out my post on the Top 15 Best Cameras for Vlogging 2020 .
Cameras That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Considering my list on what to look for in a travel vlogging camera, I’ve prepared a table below of thirteen cameras I’d recommend for travel vlogging:
| Camera | Release Date | Camera Type | Flip Screen | Mic Port | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CanonEOSM50 | |
February2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumixDC-GH5S | |
January2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$$ |
| GoProHero6 Black | |
September2017 | Action Camera | No | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM100 | |
August2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS6D Mark II | |
June2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonEOS RebelSL2 | |
June2017 | Compact SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $ |
| CanonEOS RebelT7i | |
February2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM6 | |
February2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | Yes | $ |
| SonyCyber-Shot DSCRX 100 V | |
October2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCG85 | |
September2016 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCLX10 | |
September2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS80D | |
February2016 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonPowerShotG7 X Mark II | |
February2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
Lenses That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Every travel vlogger should have a wide-angle lens. Wide-angle lenses fit much more of a scene into your camera frame, making it ideal for capturing establishing shots. You’ll also need a wide-angle lens if you plan on holding your camera out in front of yourself with an extended arm to get selfie footage.
As a travel vlogger, you’ll also want to show some close-up shots of the various subjects in your scene. If you don’t mind walking up to these subjects, the lens I recommend for this is a standard lens.
If, however, you want to be able to shoot these close-up shots from a farther distance, you’ll need a telephoto lens.
But you probably don’t want to carry and switch so many lenses as you travel, right? A convenient solution is to get a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. For example, travel vlogger Sam Kolder shoots with a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens – that’s a wide-angle lens, standard lens, and telephoto lens all in one lens!
If most of your travel video shooting will be done handheld, you should also definitely look for a lens equipped with optical image stabilization.
Check out my Best Camera Lens for YouTube to gain a more in-depth understanding of lenses and how they work.
1.2 Travel Vlogging Accessories
Camera Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
|
1. Tripod Record stabilized shots and timelapse footage with a tripod. |
|---|---|
|
2. GorillaPod SLR-Zoom with Ballhead Wrap your camera around structures that your regular tripod can’t stay on. You can also hold out your camera further away from you using the GorillaPod as a selfie stick to fit in more of your background into your selfie shot. |
|
3. Stabilizing Gimbal Get super-smooth shots with a stabilizing gimbal. |
|
4. On-Camera LED Light Is there not enough light? Add an LED light to your camera’s hot/cold shoe. |
|
5. Neutral Density (ND) Filters Is it too bright outside to have your aperture wide open but you still want to get that cinematic look ? You can add ND filters to your lenses so that you can do just that in very bright conditions. |
|
6. Camera Cleaning Kit While traveling, you can get all kinds of unwanted substances on your lens and in your camera like dust, dirt, fingerprints, raindrops, snow, and sand, to name a few. If you bring along a portable camera cleaning kit with you on your travels, you can remove those things immediately so that your shots won’t be affected. |
|
7. Drone When it comes to travel vlogging, wide shots that establish the scene and setting are important. Drones are great for taking these kinds of wide shots from high places that you would not be able to get to by foot. |
Smartphone Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Using your smartphone as a travel vlogging device is a great idea! Your smartphone is a light and portable piece of equipment that you likely have with you at all times. Upgrade your smartphone travel vlogging setup with any of these 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers:
- RAVPower Portable Charger
- Arkon Tripod Mount
- Mega Tiny Anti-Gravity Case
- FLII Selfie Ring Light
- Rode VideoMic Me
- Aukey Optic 3-in-1 Smartphone Lens Set
- iOgrapher Go for Android and iPhone
- Manfrotto TwistGrip System
- Zhiyun Smooth-Q 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
Read more about each one of these items in my post The 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers .
Camera Mounted Shotgun Microphones for Travel Vlogging
|
|
|
|
|---|
These four shotgun microphones can mount directly onto your camera’s hot/cold shoe:
- Rode VideoMic Go
- Shure VP83
- Rode VideoMic Pro+
- Sennheiser MKE 440
Read more about each one of them in our post about The 19 Best YouTube Microphones 2020 – Options for Music, Voiceovers, Vlogging, and more!
Other Useful Travel Vlogging Accessories
- Camera backpack
- Extra batteries
- Memory cards
- External hard drive
- Power plugs and cables
- USB card reader
- Universal plug
- D-ring clips (to prevent your equipment from slipping out of your grasp)
- Smartphone SD card tray key (if you’re storing your recorded footage in your SD card)
PART 2: TRAVEL VLOGGING IDEAS
If you’re needing some travel video ideas either to get you started or to bring some fresh content into your channel, here are ten travel video ideas that you can try.
1. Travel Vlog
Travel vlogging, the kind where you film yourself just going about your day in a different part of the world, is a great way to not only document your travel moments and memories for yourself, but also a great way to share your experience with others.
Rather than being too picky with your video shots and possibly ending up with a lack of footage to work with, shoot as much as you can.
Try to capture your thoughts and feelings around the things you taste, smell, see and hear. Sharing these details can help your viewers feel more like they’re with you on your travels.
2. Tips or Tricks for Traveling
Although learning from mistakes during your travels can be a rewarding experience, most people want to avoid them and, rather, enjoy their trip as much as they possibly can. After all, travel, for most people, happens in intervals that seem too short. You can help this sizable group by offering travel tips and tricks.
Prepare a list of tips and tricks, a shot list of all the footage you’ll need to go along with those tips, and then capture all your footage. As you go through your list, you can then cut away to your associated travel shots.
3. Video Tour of a Location
Many people are curious about different parts of the world and would love to join a tour without the high cost of flights, hotels, meals, and admission tickets. Give them that experience by making a video tour.
4. Review An Attraction or Experience
A lot of travelers having a limited amount of time and money to enjoy their chosen travel destinations want to know which attractions and experiences to prioritize and which ones to skip. Help them make their decision by making a video review.
5. Timelapse Videos
All you need in addition to your camera is a tripod to get started with making timelapse videos. Your tripod stabilizes your shot as your camera captures all the changes that take place in a given location.
When your footage is sped up, your viewers can appreciate all the changes that take place that they may not have had the patience to sit through in real-time. It’s also interesting to observe the passage of time in a different way.
6. Average Daily Cost
Before going on a trip, many people try to make a budget and figure out how much money to exchange into foreign currency. Making a good budget and getting just enough foreign cash, though, requires you to know how much, on average, things cost.
Make a helpful video on the average cost of daily expenses including meals and transportation like Paolo did in the above video “Average Daily Cost in Tokyo Japan | Is it Expensive?.” His video actually helped me a lot when I was trying to come up with a budget for my recent trip to Japan.
7. Interview Locals
People don’t travel only to see popular attractions. A lot of people travel to connect with and understand people from different parts of the world.
Interviewing locals and sharing their thoughts can help to provide that kind of connection.
8. What’s in My Backpack?
Packing for a trip can say a lot about who you are as a person because it involves prioritizing items based on your personal values.
For your next trip, share a little part of yourself with your audience through a video about the things you’ve packed in your bag.
9. Talk About Your Own Home City
When you’ve lived in your own home city for so long, you might forget that people all over the world may marvel at the things you take for granted because all those things just happen to be at your doorstep.
Take advantage of the expert that you already are in your own home city and make an informative video for others who are taking a trip there.
10. How To Become a Travel Vlogger
After you’ve done a lot of travel vlogging and learned so much along the way, you can make a video about how to be a travel vlogger.
In the above video, Andrew Santos teaches how to make a travel video, all while hilariously poking fun at many of the cliché trends in the travel genre.
PART 3: TRAVEL VIDEO EDITING
Video Editing Software
When it comes to editing your travel video together, there are different kinds of software you can do that with.
| FREE VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE | PAID VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE |
|---|---|
| OpenShot Video Editor (Windows, Mac, Linux) ShotCut (Windows, Mac, Linux) Hitfilm Express (Windows, Mac) VideoPad Video Editor (Windows) Lightworks (Windows, Mac, Linux) VSDC Video Editor (Windows) Machete Video Editor Lite (Windows) Avidemux (Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD) Read more about each software in our post about The Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube – Top 8 Reviews . | Wondershare Filmora X (Windows, Mac) - start at $49.99 for one year license and Free trial Final Cut Pro (Mac) - $299.99, Free trial Vegas Movie Studio (Windows) - $49.99 |
Travel-Themed Video Effects
If you use Filmora Video Editor, you can also take advantage of a variety of travel-themed video effects packs, like the one shown in the above video, filled with titles, transitions, filters, overlays, and other visual elements.
For my recent trip to Japan, I actually used Filmora Effects’ Japanese set.
At the 2:10 mark of the above video, I used an overlay of falling cherry blossom leaves. At the 3:03 mark of the same video, I used an anime-themed overlay.
At the 2:48 mark of the above video, I used a shoji door transition.
Music Libraries
Music is an important component of a lot of travel videos. Here’s where you can get them:
| ROYALTY-FREE MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID SUBSCRIPTION MUSIC LIBRARIES |
|---|---|---|
| Audionautix Bensound dig.ccMixter Free Music Archive Free Stock Music Incompetech Josh Woodward Moby Gratis Musopen Purple Planet Music TeknoAXE YouTube Audio Library | Premium Beat Audio Jungle | Audio Network Audio Blocks Epidemic Sound |
Sound Effects
Free Sound Effect Sites
PART 4: TRAVEL VLOGGING TIPS
Vlog/Life Balance
- Give yourself more time at each location if you want to have a good balance between getting the shots you need and enjoying your present moment.
Theft Prevention
- Carry a backpack that doesn’t have zippers on the outside that thieves can easily get to.
- If you’re shooting with a flashy smartphone, make it look less appealing to thieves with a grotesque smartphone case, like an Otterbox.
- In locations with high crime, pre-plan the shots you want to capture and take your SLR camera out of your bag only to take those shots. Otherwise, keep your SLR camera concealed.
- Never leave your equipment unattended in a visible area, not even in a locked car.
Pre-Production and Planning
- Before shooting, make a shot list of all the footage you need.
- Have all your filming equipment that needs to be calibrated all calibrated and ready to use.
Onscreen Performance
- Look into your lens, not the projected image of yourself on your camera’s flip screen.
- Show a lot of energy as you film yourself.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, keep your talking head clips short and gradually build your way up to longer clips. You can break up longer sentences by saying a few words from one scene, saying a few more in another, and finishing off your last words, again, in another scene. Later, in editing, you can stitch all of those clips together to make one fluid sentence.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, you can capture your talking headshots later when you find a more secluded space.
Audio Recording
- Silence everything you don’t want your mic to record.
- Put your mobile phone in airplane mode.
- Block wind from reaching your mic with windscreens and dead cats.
- Upgrade your mic.
- Adjust your levels.
- Get close to the sound you are wanting to record.
Check out 10 Recording Tips to Get The Best Sound From Your Microphone for more audio recording tips.
Filming
- To avoid crowds, wake up early and grab your footage early while everyone else is still sleeping or getting ready.
- Capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-up shots for better coverage.
- Use the Sun Seeker app to set up your sunrise/sunset shots better.
- If your camera can record 4K footage, record in 4K all the scenes that you want to zoom in closer later in editing without losing quality (your video project in editing has to be at 1920p x 1080p for this to work).
Stabilization
- If you’re trying to get shots with movement by walking, rather than walking as you normally would walk with your knees bent for steadier shots.
- If you’re shooting something in front of your handheld, lean your arm against your own body for steadier shots.
- Use a stabilizing gimbal with your camera.
Timelapse/Hyperlapse
- Select scenes where you can see a lot of change over time (not a still building in front of a cloudless smoggy sky).
- Set longer intervals for scenes that change very slowly over time.
- Pre-set your focus. Turn autofocus off.
- Shoot time-lapses/hyper-lapses in manual mode to prevent the flickering that occurs with changing light conditions in automatic settings.
- If your camera is set on a tripod in a fixed position, turn your optical image stabilization off.
- If you aren’t holding onto your camera as it’s in the middle of making a timelapse video, at least keep your camera and tripod attached by some kind of leash mechanism.
- For moving time-lapses or hyper-lapses, try to keep one point of reference in the same position within your camera frame.
Slow Motion
- Shoot slow-motion videos when there is plenty of light.
- For actions that are as slow as walking, slowing down your footage to 50% of the original speed looks good enough. If your video editing project is in 30 fps, shooting your video in 60 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. If your video editing project is in 60 fps, shooting your video in 120 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. Any slower is overkill for slowing down the speed of walking.
- For actions that are as fast as water splashing, slowing down your footage as little as 15% of the original speed can look good. For a video editing project in 30 fps, you would need a camera that can shoot at up to 240 fps to slow your footage down this much.
Storage and Back-Up
- If you’re using a phone that can store images and videos on a separate SD card, take advantage of that and record your travel footage onto your SD card. Later, you can easily get to your travel media as it will all be in one place.
- If you have your laptop on you, regularly transfer your media files from your cameras to your external hard drives.
- If you don’t want to bring your laptop on your trip and plan to video edit once you’re back home, use a USB memory card reader that connects with an app on your phone to transfer your files into your external hard drive.
- If you have access to a reliable internet connection and you leave your laptop at your place of accommodation, have your computer upload your files onto cloud storage while you are out to travel vlogging.
- Take advantage of Google Photos’ free, unlimited cloud storage for video files up to 1080p.
Video Editing
- If you’re editing a video project with videos from multiple different cameras, make sure to set the correct time and date on all of them before you start filming. Later, in editing, you can import all your image and video files and sort them in the exact order that they were taken.
- If your video editing software can work with proxies, transcode all your video files into proxy files for much faster editing.
Posting On YouTube
- Choose a title that people will search for. Keep your target keywords at the beginning of your title. “S01E01: My Summer Backpacking Trip” is not an effective title. Instead, a title like “Going Up The Eiffel Tower… Beautiful View of Paris!” would be better.
Ready to Become a Travel Vlogger?
Here in this article, I shared travel vlogging cameras &accessories, travel video ideas& resources, and travel vlogging tips. Did you get more hints to become a travel vlogger? Stay tuned and start your own travel vlog! Leave your comments below if you have any suggestions about this travel vlogger guide.
This past year has been a challenge, so if you want to make a #travelanywhere video without traveling, you can try Wondershare Filmora X video editor.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions
Want to become a travel vlogger?
Traveling around the world is one of life’s most exciting experiences – just ask anyone who has caught the travel bug. It is no wonder that travel videos are a big hit on YouTube. Any viewer can be instantly transported to another part of the world, all from the comfort of their seat.
With all the high-quality cameras and video editing software that are much more accessible to the general public now than even a few years ago, it has never been a better time to make a travel vlog.
Below, I have prepared a comprehensive guide on how to become a travel vlogger.
Create Your Travel Vlog with Wondershare FilmoraX
Wondershare FilmoraX is a video editing application that offers a lot of editing features that can be used both by a beginner and professionals alike. You can easily cut, split and trim your video, and apply transitions, filters, and texts, etc. to your travel vlog. What’s more, its advanced color grading settings and audio keyframing will add a unique flavor to your travel vlog. Just get started and make your video go viral!
PART 1: TRAVEL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT
In order to make travel videos, you’re going to need camera equipment. Below, I’ve prepared a comprehensive list of cameras and accessories that would be good for travel vlogging.
Filmstock Stock Media Library ](https://filmstock.wondershare.com/creative-theme-tourism?spm=rs.filmora%5Fweb&source%5Fchannel=seo%5Farticle )
1.1 Travel Vlogging Cameras
How To Choose A Vlogging Camera
When it comes to travel vlogging, you should look for a camera that ideally has the following eleven qualities:
- It has a fully articulated screen (flip screen)
- It has good continual autofocus while recording video
- It has good focus priority through face recognition
- It has touched to focus
- It has good low-light performance
- It has an external mic jack and a hot/cold shoe bracket
- It has optical image stabilization
- It is lightweight and portable
- It has a good battery life
- It is durable and weather-sealed
- It has hyper-lapse/timelapse/slow-motion shooting modes
For more information on why a lot of these features are ideal to have in a vlogging camera, check out my post on the Top 15 Best Cameras for Vlogging 2020 .
Cameras That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Considering my list on what to look for in a travel vlogging camera, I’ve prepared a table below of thirteen cameras I’d recommend for travel vlogging:
| Camera | Release Date | Camera Type | Flip Screen | Mic Port | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CanonEOSM50 | |
February2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumixDC-GH5S | |
January2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$$ |
| GoProHero6 Black | |
September2017 | Action Camera | No | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM100 | |
August2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS6D Mark II | |
June2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonEOS RebelSL2 | |
June2017 | Compact SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $ |
| CanonEOS RebelT7i | |
February2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM6 | |
February2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | Yes | $ |
| SonyCyber-Shot DSCRX 100 V | |
October2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCG85 | |
September2016 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCLX10 | |
September2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS80D | |
February2016 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonPowerShotG7 X Mark II | |
February2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
Lenses That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Every travel vlogger should have a wide-angle lens. Wide-angle lenses fit much more of a scene into your camera frame, making it ideal for capturing establishing shots. You’ll also need a wide-angle lens if you plan on holding your camera out in front of yourself with an extended arm to get selfie footage.
As a travel vlogger, you’ll also want to show some close-up shots of the various subjects in your scene. If you don’t mind walking up to these subjects, the lens I recommend for this is a standard lens.
If, however, you want to be able to shoot these close-up shots from a farther distance, you’ll need a telephoto lens.
But you probably don’t want to carry and switch so many lenses as you travel, right? A convenient solution is to get a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. For example, travel vlogger Sam Kolder shoots with a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens – that’s a wide-angle lens, standard lens, and telephoto lens all in one lens!
If most of your travel video shooting will be done handheld, you should also definitely look for a lens equipped with optical image stabilization.
Check out my Best Camera Lens for YouTube to gain a more in-depth understanding of lenses and how they work.
1.2 Travel Vlogging Accessories
Camera Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
|
1. Tripod Record stabilized shots and timelapse footage with a tripod. |
|---|---|
|
2. GorillaPod SLR-Zoom with Ballhead Wrap your camera around structures that your regular tripod can’t stay on. You can also hold out your camera further away from you using the GorillaPod as a selfie stick to fit in more of your background into your selfie shot. |
|
3. Stabilizing Gimbal Get super-smooth shots with a stabilizing gimbal. |
|
4. On-Camera LED Light Is there not enough light? Add an LED light to your camera’s hot/cold shoe. |
|
5. Neutral Density (ND) Filters Is it too bright outside to have your aperture wide open but you still want to get that cinematic look ? You can add ND filters to your lenses so that you can do just that in very bright conditions. |
|
6. Camera Cleaning Kit While traveling, you can get all kinds of unwanted substances on your lens and in your camera like dust, dirt, fingerprints, raindrops, snow, and sand, to name a few. If you bring along a portable camera cleaning kit with you on your travels, you can remove those things immediately so that your shots won’t be affected. |
|
7. Drone When it comes to travel vlogging, wide shots that establish the scene and setting are important. Drones are great for taking these kinds of wide shots from high places that you would not be able to get to by foot. |
Smartphone Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Using your smartphone as a travel vlogging device is a great idea! Your smartphone is a light and portable piece of equipment that you likely have with you at all times. Upgrade your smartphone travel vlogging setup with any of these 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers:
- RAVPower Portable Charger
- Arkon Tripod Mount
- Mega Tiny Anti-Gravity Case
- FLII Selfie Ring Light
- Rode VideoMic Me
- Aukey Optic 3-in-1 Smartphone Lens Set
- iOgrapher Go for Android and iPhone
- Manfrotto TwistGrip System
- Zhiyun Smooth-Q 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
Read more about each one of these items in my post The 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers .
Camera Mounted Shotgun Microphones for Travel Vlogging
|
|
|
|
|---|
These four shotgun microphones can mount directly onto your camera’s hot/cold shoe:
- Rode VideoMic Go
- Shure VP83
- Rode VideoMic Pro+
- Sennheiser MKE 440
Read more about each one of them in our post about The 19 Best YouTube Microphones 2020 – Options for Music, Voiceovers, Vlogging, and more!
Other Useful Travel Vlogging Accessories
- Camera backpack
- Extra batteries
- Memory cards
- External hard drive
- Power plugs and cables
- USB card reader
- Universal plug
- D-ring clips (to prevent your equipment from slipping out of your grasp)
- Smartphone SD card tray key (if you’re storing your recorded footage in your SD card)
PART 2: TRAVEL VLOGGING IDEAS
If you’re needing some travel video ideas either to get you started or to bring some fresh content into your channel, here are ten travel video ideas that you can try.
1. Travel Vlog
Travel vlogging, the kind where you film yourself just going about your day in a different part of the world, is a great way to not only document your travel moments and memories for yourself, but also a great way to share your experience with others.
Rather than being too picky with your video shots and possibly ending up with a lack of footage to work with, shoot as much as you can.
Try to capture your thoughts and feelings around the things you taste, smell, see and hear. Sharing these details can help your viewers feel more like they’re with you on your travels.
2. Tips or Tricks for Traveling
Although learning from mistakes during your travels can be a rewarding experience, most people want to avoid them and, rather, enjoy their trip as much as they possibly can. After all, travel, for most people, happens in intervals that seem too short. You can help this sizable group by offering travel tips and tricks.
Prepare a list of tips and tricks, a shot list of all the footage you’ll need to go along with those tips, and then capture all your footage. As you go through your list, you can then cut away to your associated travel shots.
3. Video Tour of a Location
Many people are curious about different parts of the world and would love to join a tour without the high cost of flights, hotels, meals, and admission tickets. Give them that experience by making a video tour.
4. Review An Attraction or Experience
A lot of travelers having a limited amount of time and money to enjoy their chosen travel destinations want to know which attractions and experiences to prioritize and which ones to skip. Help them make their decision by making a video review.
5. Timelapse Videos
All you need in addition to your camera is a tripod to get started with making timelapse videos. Your tripod stabilizes your shot as your camera captures all the changes that take place in a given location.
When your footage is sped up, your viewers can appreciate all the changes that take place that they may not have had the patience to sit through in real-time. It’s also interesting to observe the passage of time in a different way.
6. Average Daily Cost
Before going on a trip, many people try to make a budget and figure out how much money to exchange into foreign currency. Making a good budget and getting just enough foreign cash, though, requires you to know how much, on average, things cost.
Make a helpful video on the average cost of daily expenses including meals and transportation like Paolo did in the above video “Average Daily Cost in Tokyo Japan | Is it Expensive?.” His video actually helped me a lot when I was trying to come up with a budget for my recent trip to Japan.
7. Interview Locals
People don’t travel only to see popular attractions. A lot of people travel to connect with and understand people from different parts of the world.
Interviewing locals and sharing their thoughts can help to provide that kind of connection.
8. What’s in My Backpack?
Packing for a trip can say a lot about who you are as a person because it involves prioritizing items based on your personal values.
For your next trip, share a little part of yourself with your audience through a video about the things you’ve packed in your bag.
9. Talk About Your Own Home City
When you’ve lived in your own home city for so long, you might forget that people all over the world may marvel at the things you take for granted because all those things just happen to be at your doorstep.
Take advantage of the expert that you already are in your own home city and make an informative video for others who are taking a trip there.
10. How To Become a Travel Vlogger
After you’ve done a lot of travel vlogging and learned so much along the way, you can make a video about how to be a travel vlogger.
In the above video, Andrew Santos teaches how to make a travel video, all while hilariously poking fun at many of the cliché trends in the travel genre.
PART 3: TRAVEL VIDEO EDITING
Video Editing Software
When it comes to editing your travel video together, there are different kinds of software you can do that with.
| FREE VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE | PAID VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE |
|---|---|
| OpenShot Video Editor (Windows, Mac, Linux) ShotCut (Windows, Mac, Linux) Hitfilm Express (Windows, Mac) VideoPad Video Editor (Windows) Lightworks (Windows, Mac, Linux) VSDC Video Editor (Windows) Machete Video Editor Lite (Windows) Avidemux (Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD) Read more about each software in our post about The Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube – Top 8 Reviews . | Wondershare Filmora X (Windows, Mac) - start at $49.99 for one year license and Free trial Final Cut Pro (Mac) - $299.99, Free trial Vegas Movie Studio (Windows) - $49.99 |
Travel-Themed Video Effects
If you use Filmora Video Editor, you can also take advantage of a variety of travel-themed video effects packs, like the one shown in the above video, filled with titles, transitions, filters, overlays, and other visual elements.
For my recent trip to Japan, I actually used Filmora Effects’ Japanese set.
At the 2:10 mark of the above video, I used an overlay of falling cherry blossom leaves. At the 3:03 mark of the same video, I used an anime-themed overlay.
At the 2:48 mark of the above video, I used a shoji door transition.
Music Libraries
Music is an important component of a lot of travel videos. Here’s where you can get them:
| ROYALTY-FREE MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID SUBSCRIPTION MUSIC LIBRARIES |
|---|---|---|
| Audionautix Bensound dig.ccMixter Free Music Archive Free Stock Music Incompetech Josh Woodward Moby Gratis Musopen Purple Planet Music TeknoAXE YouTube Audio Library | Premium Beat Audio Jungle | Audio Network Audio Blocks Epidemic Sound |
Sound Effects
Free Sound Effect Sites
PART 4: TRAVEL VLOGGING TIPS
Vlog/Life Balance
- Give yourself more time at each location if you want to have a good balance between getting the shots you need and enjoying your present moment.
Theft Prevention
- Carry a backpack that doesn’t have zippers on the outside that thieves can easily get to.
- If you’re shooting with a flashy smartphone, make it look less appealing to thieves with a grotesque smartphone case, like an Otterbox.
- In locations with high crime, pre-plan the shots you want to capture and take your SLR camera out of your bag only to take those shots. Otherwise, keep your SLR camera concealed.
- Never leave your equipment unattended in a visible area, not even in a locked car.
Pre-Production and Planning
- Before shooting, make a shot list of all the footage you need.
- Have all your filming equipment that needs to be calibrated all calibrated and ready to use.
Onscreen Performance
- Look into your lens, not the projected image of yourself on your camera’s flip screen.
- Show a lot of energy as you film yourself.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, keep your talking head clips short and gradually build your way up to longer clips. You can break up longer sentences by saying a few words from one scene, saying a few more in another, and finishing off your last words, again, in another scene. Later, in editing, you can stitch all of those clips together to make one fluid sentence.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, you can capture your talking headshots later when you find a more secluded space.
Audio Recording
- Silence everything you don’t want your mic to record.
- Put your mobile phone in airplane mode.
- Block wind from reaching your mic with windscreens and dead cats.
- Upgrade your mic.
- Adjust your levels.
- Get close to the sound you are wanting to record.
Check out 10 Recording Tips to Get The Best Sound From Your Microphone for more audio recording tips.
Filming
- To avoid crowds, wake up early and grab your footage early while everyone else is still sleeping or getting ready.
- Capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-up shots for better coverage.
- Use the Sun Seeker app to set up your sunrise/sunset shots better.
- If your camera can record 4K footage, record in 4K all the scenes that you want to zoom in closer later in editing without losing quality (your video project in editing has to be at 1920p x 1080p for this to work).
Stabilization
- If you’re trying to get shots with movement by walking, rather than walking as you normally would walk with your knees bent for steadier shots.
- If you’re shooting something in front of your handheld, lean your arm against your own body for steadier shots.
- Use a stabilizing gimbal with your camera.
Timelapse/Hyperlapse
- Select scenes where you can see a lot of change over time (not a still building in front of a cloudless smoggy sky).
- Set longer intervals for scenes that change very slowly over time.
- Pre-set your focus. Turn autofocus off.
- Shoot time-lapses/hyper-lapses in manual mode to prevent the flickering that occurs with changing light conditions in automatic settings.
- If your camera is set on a tripod in a fixed position, turn your optical image stabilization off.
- If you aren’t holding onto your camera as it’s in the middle of making a timelapse video, at least keep your camera and tripod attached by some kind of leash mechanism.
- For moving time-lapses or hyper-lapses, try to keep one point of reference in the same position within your camera frame.
Slow Motion
- Shoot slow-motion videos when there is plenty of light.
- For actions that are as slow as walking, slowing down your footage to 50% of the original speed looks good enough. If your video editing project is in 30 fps, shooting your video in 60 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. If your video editing project is in 60 fps, shooting your video in 120 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. Any slower is overkill for slowing down the speed of walking.
- For actions that are as fast as water splashing, slowing down your footage as little as 15% of the original speed can look good. For a video editing project in 30 fps, you would need a camera that can shoot at up to 240 fps to slow your footage down this much.
Storage and Back-Up
- If you’re using a phone that can store images and videos on a separate SD card, take advantage of that and record your travel footage onto your SD card. Later, you can easily get to your travel media as it will all be in one place.
- If you have your laptop on you, regularly transfer your media files from your cameras to your external hard drives.
- If you don’t want to bring your laptop on your trip and plan to video edit once you’re back home, use a USB memory card reader that connects with an app on your phone to transfer your files into your external hard drive.
- If you have access to a reliable internet connection and you leave your laptop at your place of accommodation, have your computer upload your files onto cloud storage while you are out to travel vlogging.
- Take advantage of Google Photos’ free, unlimited cloud storage for video files up to 1080p.
Video Editing
- If you’re editing a video project with videos from multiple different cameras, make sure to set the correct time and date on all of them before you start filming. Later, in editing, you can import all your image and video files and sort them in the exact order that they were taken.
- If your video editing software can work with proxies, transcode all your video files into proxy files for much faster editing.
Posting On YouTube
- Choose a title that people will search for. Keep your target keywords at the beginning of your title. “S01E01: My Summer Backpacking Trip” is not an effective title. Instead, a title like “Going Up The Eiffel Tower… Beautiful View of Paris!” would be better.
Ready to Become a Travel Vlogger?
Here in this article, I shared travel vlogging cameras &accessories, travel video ideas& resources, and travel vlogging tips. Did you get more hints to become a travel vlogger? Stay tuned and start your own travel vlog! Leave your comments below if you have any suggestions about this travel vlogger guide.
This past year has been a challenge, so if you want to make a #travelanywhere video without traveling, you can try Wondershare Filmora X video editor.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett
Oct 26, 2023• Proven solutions
Want to become a travel vlogger?
Traveling around the world is one of life’s most exciting experiences – just ask anyone who has caught the travel bug. It is no wonder that travel videos are a big hit on YouTube. Any viewer can be instantly transported to another part of the world, all from the comfort of their seat.
With all the high-quality cameras and video editing software that are much more accessible to the general public now than even a few years ago, it has never been a better time to make a travel vlog.
Below, I have prepared a comprehensive guide on how to become a travel vlogger.
Create Your Travel Vlog with Wondershare FilmoraX
Wondershare FilmoraX is a video editing application that offers a lot of editing features that can be used both by a beginner and professionals alike. You can easily cut, split and trim your video, and apply transitions, filters, and texts, etc. to your travel vlog. What’s more, its advanced color grading settings and audio keyframing will add a unique flavor to your travel vlog. Just get started and make your video go viral!
PART 1: TRAVEL VLOGGING EQUIPMENT
In order to make travel videos, you’re going to need camera equipment. Below, I’ve prepared a comprehensive list of cameras and accessories that would be good for travel vlogging.
Filmstock Stock Media Library ](https://filmstock.wondershare.com/creative-theme-tourism?spm=rs.filmora%5Fweb&source%5Fchannel=seo%5Farticle )
1.1 Travel Vlogging Cameras
How To Choose A Vlogging Camera
When it comes to travel vlogging, you should look for a camera that ideally has the following eleven qualities:
- It has a fully articulated screen (flip screen)
- It has good continual autofocus while recording video
- It has good focus priority through face recognition
- It has touched to focus
- It has good low-light performance
- It has an external mic jack and a hot/cold shoe bracket
- It has optical image stabilization
- It is lightweight and portable
- It has a good battery life
- It is durable and weather-sealed
- It has hyper-lapse/timelapse/slow-motion shooting modes
For more information on why a lot of these features are ideal to have in a vlogging camera, check out my post on the Top 15 Best Cameras for Vlogging 2020 .
Cameras That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Considering my list on what to look for in a travel vlogging camera, I’ve prepared a table below of thirteen cameras I’d recommend for travel vlogging:
| Camera | Release Date | Camera Type | Flip Screen | Mic Port | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CanonEOSM50 | |
February2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumixDC-GH5S | |
January2018 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$$ |
| GoProHero6 Black | |
September2017 | Action Camera | No | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM100 | |
August2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS6D Mark II | |
June2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonEOS RebelSL2 | |
June2017 | Compact SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $ |
| CanonEOS RebelT7i | |
February2017 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| CanonEOSM6 | |
February2017 | Mirrorless | Flip-Up | Yes | $ |
| SonyCyber-Shot DSCRX 100 V | |
October2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCG85 | |
September2016 | Mirrorless | Fully Articulated | Yes | $- |
| PanasonicLumix DMCLX10 | |
September2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
| CanonEOS80D | |
February2016 | Mid-size SLR | Fully Articulated | Yes | $$ |
| CanonPowerShotG7 X Mark II | |
February2016 | Compact | Flip-Up | No | $ |
Lenses That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Every travel vlogger should have a wide-angle lens. Wide-angle lenses fit much more of a scene into your camera frame, making it ideal for capturing establishing shots. You’ll also need a wide-angle lens if you plan on holding your camera out in front of yourself with an extended arm to get selfie footage.
As a travel vlogger, you’ll also want to show some close-up shots of the various subjects in your scene. If you don’t mind walking up to these subjects, the lens I recommend for this is a standard lens.
If, however, you want to be able to shoot these close-up shots from a farther distance, you’ll need a telephoto lens.
But you probably don’t want to carry and switch so many lenses as you travel, right? A convenient solution is to get a zoom lens that covers a wide range of focal lengths. For example, travel vlogger Sam Kolder shoots with a Canon EF 24-105mm f/4 lens – that’s a wide-angle lens, standard lens, and telephoto lens all in one lens!
If most of your travel video shooting will be done handheld, you should also definitely look for a lens equipped with optical image stabilization.
Check out my Best Camera Lens for YouTube to gain a more in-depth understanding of lenses and how they work.
1.2 Travel Vlogging Accessories
Camera Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
|
1. Tripod Record stabilized shots and timelapse footage with a tripod. |
|---|---|
|
2. GorillaPod SLR-Zoom with Ballhead Wrap your camera around structures that your regular tripod can’t stay on. You can also hold out your camera further away from you using the GorillaPod as a selfie stick to fit in more of your background into your selfie shot. |
|
3. Stabilizing Gimbal Get super-smooth shots with a stabilizing gimbal. |
|
4. On-Camera LED Light Is there not enough light? Add an LED light to your camera’s hot/cold shoe. |
|
5. Neutral Density (ND) Filters Is it too bright outside to have your aperture wide open but you still want to get that cinematic look ? You can add ND filters to your lenses so that you can do just that in very bright conditions. |
|
6. Camera Cleaning Kit While traveling, you can get all kinds of unwanted substances on your lens and in your camera like dust, dirt, fingerprints, raindrops, snow, and sand, to name a few. If you bring along a portable camera cleaning kit with you on your travels, you can remove those things immediately so that your shots won’t be affected. |
|
7. Drone When it comes to travel vlogging, wide shots that establish the scene and setting are important. Drones are great for taking these kinds of wide shots from high places that you would not be able to get to by foot. |
Smartphone Accessories That Are Good For Travel Vlogging
Using your smartphone as a travel vlogging device is a great idea! Your smartphone is a light and portable piece of equipment that you likely have with you at all times. Upgrade your smartphone travel vlogging setup with any of these 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers:
- RAVPower Portable Charger
- Arkon Tripod Mount
- Mega Tiny Anti-Gravity Case
- FLII Selfie Ring Light
- Rode VideoMic Me
- Aukey Optic 3-in-1 Smartphone Lens Set
- iOgrapher Go for Android and iPhone
- Manfrotto TwistGrip System
- Zhiyun Smooth-Q 3-Axis Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer for Smartphones
Read more about each one of these items in my post The 9 Best Smartphone Camera Accessories For Vloggers .
Camera Mounted Shotgun Microphones for Travel Vlogging
|
|
|
|
|---|
These four shotgun microphones can mount directly onto your camera’s hot/cold shoe:
- Rode VideoMic Go
- Shure VP83
- Rode VideoMic Pro+
- Sennheiser MKE 440
Read more about each one of them in our post about The 19 Best YouTube Microphones 2020 – Options for Music, Voiceovers, Vlogging, and more!
Other Useful Travel Vlogging Accessories
- Camera backpack
- Extra batteries
- Memory cards
- External hard drive
- Power plugs and cables
- USB card reader
- Universal plug
- D-ring clips (to prevent your equipment from slipping out of your grasp)
- Smartphone SD card tray key (if you’re storing your recorded footage in your SD card)
PART 2: TRAVEL VLOGGING IDEAS
If you’re needing some travel video ideas either to get you started or to bring some fresh content into your channel, here are ten travel video ideas that you can try.
1. Travel Vlog
Travel vlogging, the kind where you film yourself just going about your day in a different part of the world, is a great way to not only document your travel moments and memories for yourself, but also a great way to share your experience with others.
Rather than being too picky with your video shots and possibly ending up with a lack of footage to work with, shoot as much as you can.
Try to capture your thoughts and feelings around the things you taste, smell, see and hear. Sharing these details can help your viewers feel more like they’re with you on your travels.
2. Tips or Tricks for Traveling
Although learning from mistakes during your travels can be a rewarding experience, most people want to avoid them and, rather, enjoy their trip as much as they possibly can. After all, travel, for most people, happens in intervals that seem too short. You can help this sizable group by offering travel tips and tricks.
Prepare a list of tips and tricks, a shot list of all the footage you’ll need to go along with those tips, and then capture all your footage. As you go through your list, you can then cut away to your associated travel shots.
3. Video Tour of a Location
Many people are curious about different parts of the world and would love to join a tour without the high cost of flights, hotels, meals, and admission tickets. Give them that experience by making a video tour.
4. Review An Attraction or Experience
A lot of travelers having a limited amount of time and money to enjoy their chosen travel destinations want to know which attractions and experiences to prioritize and which ones to skip. Help them make their decision by making a video review.
5. Timelapse Videos
All you need in addition to your camera is a tripod to get started with making timelapse videos. Your tripod stabilizes your shot as your camera captures all the changes that take place in a given location.
When your footage is sped up, your viewers can appreciate all the changes that take place that they may not have had the patience to sit through in real-time. It’s also interesting to observe the passage of time in a different way.
6. Average Daily Cost
Before going on a trip, many people try to make a budget and figure out how much money to exchange into foreign currency. Making a good budget and getting just enough foreign cash, though, requires you to know how much, on average, things cost.
Make a helpful video on the average cost of daily expenses including meals and transportation like Paolo did in the above video “Average Daily Cost in Tokyo Japan | Is it Expensive?.” His video actually helped me a lot when I was trying to come up with a budget for my recent trip to Japan.
7. Interview Locals
People don’t travel only to see popular attractions. A lot of people travel to connect with and understand people from different parts of the world.
Interviewing locals and sharing their thoughts can help to provide that kind of connection.
8. What’s in My Backpack?
Packing for a trip can say a lot about who you are as a person because it involves prioritizing items based on your personal values.
For your next trip, share a little part of yourself with your audience through a video about the things you’ve packed in your bag.
9. Talk About Your Own Home City
When you’ve lived in your own home city for so long, you might forget that people all over the world may marvel at the things you take for granted because all those things just happen to be at your doorstep.
Take advantage of the expert that you already are in your own home city and make an informative video for others who are taking a trip there.
10. How To Become a Travel Vlogger
After you’ve done a lot of travel vlogging and learned so much along the way, you can make a video about how to be a travel vlogger.
In the above video, Andrew Santos teaches how to make a travel video, all while hilariously poking fun at many of the cliché trends in the travel genre.
PART 3: TRAVEL VIDEO EDITING
Video Editing Software
When it comes to editing your travel video together, there are different kinds of software you can do that with.
| FREE VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE | PAID VIDEO EDITING SOFTWARE |
|---|---|
| OpenShot Video Editor (Windows, Mac, Linux) ShotCut (Windows, Mac, Linux) Hitfilm Express (Windows, Mac) VideoPad Video Editor (Windows) Lightworks (Windows, Mac, Linux) VSDC Video Editor (Windows) Machete Video Editor Lite (Windows) Avidemux (Windows, Mac, Linux, BSD) Read more about each software in our post about The Best Free Video Editing Software for YouTube – Top 8 Reviews . | Wondershare Filmora X (Windows, Mac) - start at $49.99 for one year license and Free trial Final Cut Pro (Mac) - $299.99, Free trial Vegas Movie Studio (Windows) - $49.99 |
Travel-Themed Video Effects
If you use Filmora Video Editor, you can also take advantage of a variety of travel-themed video effects packs, like the one shown in the above video, filled with titles, transitions, filters, overlays, and other visual elements.
For my recent trip to Japan, I actually used Filmora Effects’ Japanese set.
At the 2:10 mark of the above video, I used an overlay of falling cherry blossom leaves. At the 3:03 mark of the same video, I used an anime-themed overlay.
At the 2:48 mark of the above video, I used a shoji door transition.
Music Libraries
Music is an important component of a lot of travel videos. Here’s where you can get them:
| ROYALTY-FREE MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID MUSIC LIBRARIES | PAID SUBSCRIPTION MUSIC LIBRARIES |
|---|---|---|
| Audionautix Bensound dig.ccMixter Free Music Archive Free Stock Music Incompetech Josh Woodward Moby Gratis Musopen Purple Planet Music TeknoAXE YouTube Audio Library | Premium Beat Audio Jungle | Audio Network Audio Blocks Epidemic Sound |
Sound Effects
Free Sound Effect Sites
PART 4: TRAVEL VLOGGING TIPS
Vlog/Life Balance
- Give yourself more time at each location if you want to have a good balance between getting the shots you need and enjoying your present moment.
Theft Prevention
- Carry a backpack that doesn’t have zippers on the outside that thieves can easily get to.
- If you’re shooting with a flashy smartphone, make it look less appealing to thieves with a grotesque smartphone case, like an Otterbox.
- In locations with high crime, pre-plan the shots you want to capture and take your SLR camera out of your bag only to take those shots. Otherwise, keep your SLR camera concealed.
- Never leave your equipment unattended in a visible area, not even in a locked car.
Pre-Production and Planning
- Before shooting, make a shot list of all the footage you need.
- Have all your filming equipment that needs to be calibrated all calibrated and ready to use.
Onscreen Performance
- Look into your lens, not the projected image of yourself on your camera’s flip screen.
- Show a lot of energy as you film yourself.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, keep your talking head clips short and gradually build your way up to longer clips. You can break up longer sentences by saying a few words from one scene, saying a few more in another, and finishing off your last words, again, in another scene. Later, in editing, you can stitch all of those clips together to make one fluid sentence.
- If you’re nervous about talking to the camera in public, you can capture your talking headshots later when you find a more secluded space.
Audio Recording
- Silence everything you don’t want your mic to record.
- Put your mobile phone in airplane mode.
- Block wind from reaching your mic with windscreens and dead cats.
- Upgrade your mic.
- Adjust your levels.
- Get close to the sound you are wanting to record.
Check out 10 Recording Tips to Get The Best Sound From Your Microphone for more audio recording tips.
Filming
- To avoid crowds, wake up early and grab your footage early while everyone else is still sleeping or getting ready.
- Capture wide shots, medium shots, and close-up shots for better coverage.
- Use the Sun Seeker app to set up your sunrise/sunset shots better.
- If your camera can record 4K footage, record in 4K all the scenes that you want to zoom in closer later in editing without losing quality (your video project in editing has to be at 1920p x 1080p for this to work).
Stabilization
- If you’re trying to get shots with movement by walking, rather than walking as you normally would walk with your knees bent for steadier shots.
- If you’re shooting something in front of your handheld, lean your arm against your own body for steadier shots.
- Use a stabilizing gimbal with your camera.
Timelapse/Hyperlapse
- Select scenes where you can see a lot of change over time (not a still building in front of a cloudless smoggy sky).
- Set longer intervals for scenes that change very slowly over time.
- Pre-set your focus. Turn autofocus off.
- Shoot time-lapses/hyper-lapses in manual mode to prevent the flickering that occurs with changing light conditions in automatic settings.
- If your camera is set on a tripod in a fixed position, turn your optical image stabilization off.
- If you aren’t holding onto your camera as it’s in the middle of making a timelapse video, at least keep your camera and tripod attached by some kind of leash mechanism.
- For moving time-lapses or hyper-lapses, try to keep one point of reference in the same position within your camera frame.
Slow Motion
- Shoot slow-motion videos when there is plenty of light.
- For actions that are as slow as walking, slowing down your footage to 50% of the original speed looks good enough. If your video editing project is in 30 fps, shooting your video in 60 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. If your video editing project is in 60 fps, shooting your video in 120 fps will give you a 50% slow-motion video. Any slower is overkill for slowing down the speed of walking.
- For actions that are as fast as water splashing, slowing down your footage as little as 15% of the original speed can look good. For a video editing project in 30 fps, you would need a camera that can shoot at up to 240 fps to slow your footage down this much.
Storage and Back-Up
- If you’re using a phone that can store images and videos on a separate SD card, take advantage of that and record your travel footage onto your SD card. Later, you can easily get to your travel media as it will all be in one place.
- If you have your laptop on you, regularly transfer your media files from your cameras to your external hard drives.
- If you don’t want to bring your laptop on your trip and plan to video edit once you’re back home, use a USB memory card reader that connects with an app on your phone to transfer your files into your external hard drive.
- If you have access to a reliable internet connection and you leave your laptop at your place of accommodation, have your computer upload your files onto cloud storage while you are out to travel vlogging.
- Take advantage of Google Photos’ free, unlimited cloud storage for video files up to 1080p.
Video Editing
- If you’re editing a video project with videos from multiple different cameras, make sure to set the correct time and date on all of them before you start filming. Later, in editing, you can import all your image and video files and sort them in the exact order that they were taken.
- If your video editing software can work with proxies, transcode all your video files into proxy files for much faster editing.
Posting On YouTube
- Choose a title that people will search for. Keep your target keywords at the beginning of your title. “S01E01: My Summer Backpacking Trip” is not an effective title. Instead, a title like “Going Up The Eiffel Tower… Beautiful View of Paris!” would be better.
Ready to Become a Travel Vlogger?
Here in this article, I shared travel vlogging cameras &accessories, travel video ideas& resources, and travel vlogging tips. Did you get more hints to become a travel vlogger? Stay tuned and start your own travel vlog! Leave your comments below if you have any suggestions about this travel vlogger guide.
This past year has been a challenge, so if you want to make a #travelanywhere video without traveling, you can try Wondershare Filmora X video editor.
Richard Bennett
Richard Bennett is a writer and a lover of all things video.
Follow @Richard Bennett
- Title: "In 2024, From Hobbyist to Pro Optimal Cameras For YouTubing"
- Author: Joseph
- Created at : 2024-05-31 13:42:30
- Updated at : 2024-06-01 13:42:30
- Link: https://youtube-stream.techidaily.com/in-2024-from-hobbyist-to-pro-optimal-cameras-for-youtubing/
- License: This work is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0.
