How I Create High-Quality YouTube Videos on a Budget
Elwyn Davies, known for his Pixelhaze YouTube channel, specializes in web design and website builders like Squarespace and Hostinger Website Builder. Today, he takes a different approach, sharing how he produces his videos with a limited budget. From his iPhone Pro to his modular recording setup, Elwyn reveals his secrets to creating professional content without breaking the bank.
Today I will share how I create my YouTube videos on a relatively tight budget. While I have some quality equipment, like my iPhone Pro, I focus on creating a flexible environment where I can film from multiple angles.
You might have noticed that I often record from different perspectives. This modular approach allows for a dynamic setup, but it has trade-offs, such as imperfect lighting. But for my needs, 99% is good enough!
Tour of the Recording Cabin
Let me give you a tour around the cabin I built at the end of 2020, during the second lockdown in the UK. I needed a space away from my kids to record content without constant interruptions. The cabin cost me around £4,000 to £5,000 to build, but it has been worth every penny.
Equipment Overview
Lapel Mic and Desktop Microphone: Essential for clear audio.
Lighting Setup: Flexible yet effective in avoiding harsh shadows.
Chalkboard: A must-have for jotting down ideas.
Fake Plants: Adds a touch of greenery without the upkeep.
Setting Up the Environment
The Cabin’s Layout
The cabin isn’t large, but it’s perfect for my needs. I control the light with roller blinds and use a softbox attachment to my LED light for softer lighting. My chalkboard is always handy for brainstorming during coaching sessions, video recording or live project workshops.
Decor and Utility
I’ve decorated the cabin with artwork and fake plants to create a pleasant working environment.
Sound Setup and Tips
Microphone Choices
I use a Hollyland microphone set, which costs around $120 to $150. It’s affordable yet effective, especially when paired with Descript’s Studio Sound feature that cleans up audio.
Why I chose the Hollyland microphone
Magnetic Clip: Keeps the mic attached without damaging clothes.
Noise-Cancelling Settings: Disable these on lower-cost mics to avoid audio clipping.
Voice Control: I use a smart device to control lighting and temperature.
Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Microphones: https://amzn.to/3MuN4jz
Lighting Setup and Techniques
Main Light Source
I use a Neewer light with adjustable brightness and a softbox attachment to soften shadows. The softbox is crucial for creating a professional look without harsh shadows.
Additional Lighting
Ring Light: Used sparingly to avoid overpowering the subject.
LED Panel Lights: These add balanced light and reduce shadows.
Practical Tips
Proper Angling: Avoid placing lights directly in front of the camera to prevent washout.
LED Strips: While mine need replacing, they can add colourful backdrops.
My LED panel light is discontinued, but this is a good alternative (it comes as a set of 2, which is better than the ring light I am using): https://amzn.to/4cAR6kF
Here are GVM softboxes (you need to double-check to make sure these fit): https://amzn.to/4dr4tVV
Wrap-Up: Final Tips for Your Setup
I hope this gives you an idea of how I’ve set up my recording cabin. Below is a list of the equipment I use:
iPhone Pro
Hollyland Microphone Set
Neewer Light with Softbox
Ring Light
LED Panel Lights
Amazon Blinds
Chalkboard and Accessories
Whether you’re looking to improve your Zoom call quality or start recording your own video content, these tips should help you get started without spending a fortune.
If you have any questions, feel free to leave them for me. Don’t forget to check out our community for more detailed content on becoming a better designer.
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