Source: http://www.sxc.hu/photo/756580
Technology keeps evolving. And, with each release, the tools of producing content reduce in price while increasing in quality. This article explores 3 different tiers of products that can help you produce and distribute content.
Tier 1: Under $500.
Producing good quality online video does not require expensive products. You can create great quality video for under $500.
Video camera: The Flip cameras continue to deliver stunning video quality in many situations. Don’t let their size or their price fool you. Given that they cost less than $200, they’re an ideal choice for many content creators. Update 1: (courtesy of Thomas Nord): The Kodak Zi8 is also a worthy product in this category, especially since it takes accepts external microphones and has the ability to use additional memory cards.
Microphone: While the Flip cameras don’t have the ability to use external microphones, it’s important to have a good audio setup. The Zoom H2 from Samson allows you to capture high-quality audio in a number of different environments. And, it costs less than $150.
Website: As a digital producer, you need a website to publish your content. If you have limited web-design knowledge, then get an account with Squarespace. If you do, be sure to use DMBIZ and receive 10% off for as long as you’re with the company.
Tier 2: Under $1500.
If you can invest a little more for your production, the quality of your audio and video shows increases sharply.
Video camera: Canon recently released the Canon T2i / Canon 550D. The camera body costs $799 and the kit costs $899. While it does take a while to get used to the camera, it’s quality can surpass cameras that cost $10,000.
Microphone: One of the disadvantages of the Canon T2i / Canon 550D is that it’s audio quality can be considered ‘usable’ at best. In order to supplement the great video quality, it’s recommended that you purchase the Zoom H4n for $299.
Website: Similar to the above recommendation, Squarespace is still the preferred solution. It’s easy to setup, modify, and expand.
Tier 3: Over $3000.
In this tier, the audio and video recommendations remain the same. However, at this stage, it’s important to invest in a good website design. A good design may help retain more viewers and may also increase interactivity.
