Essential Equipment for Digital Video Production

Compared to old-fashioned filmmaking, digital video production is relatively simple. However, there are some standard pieces of digital video production equipment that are essential for every digital video project.

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Digital Video Camcorder

Photographer filming the volcano eruption at the Holuhraun Fissure, near the Bardarbunga Volcano, Ic — Arctic-Images / Getty Images

You won't be able to get started in digital video production without a camcorder. There are many different types of camcorders, from standard definition cameras all the way up to 4k cameras and beyond, and which kind you buy depends on the type of digital video productions you plan to use it for.

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Video Editing Computer

Whether you need a special computer for your digital video productions again depends on the complexity of your plans. Your home computer may work fine for home movies and simpler digital video productions, but if you plan on producing HD videos or long-format feature films you may need a more powerful computer.

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Digital Video Editing Software

Again, the type of video editing software you use depends on the complexity of your digital video production. Free software like iMovie and Movie Maker work great for simple, straightforward editing. If you want more editorial control, though, you'll have to look at more expensive digital video editing software.

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External Hard Drive

If you're doing a lot of video editing, you'll want an external hard drive to store those large video files.

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Camcorder Microphone

The mic on your camera will work all right for home movies, but if you are involved in professional digital video production, you'll want to buy some professional microphones for better quality sound.

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Video Tripod

A video tripod is essential for professional shooting, but even hobby videographers benefit greatly from a good video tripod. Whether you're looking for something to hold your cell phone steady, or a video tripod that can handle a heavy-duty HD camera, there's a video tripod for you.

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