One of the biggest misconceptions as creators is that we need the best gear to make great videos. You know, the fanciest camera, the biggest tripod, not just one but ten lenses and - to top it off - a $500 gimbal that you definitely will remember to take with you next time you film.
In reality, getting hung up on gear can just be another way for us to procrastinate actually creating. We think that when we have the ‘perfect set up’ we’ll be ready to film that video idea that’s been keeping us up at night. And yet, I believe that the best work comes when you realise that there’s nothing holding you back, not gear, not skill, or location or friends or family. You can create brilliant videos with just a smart phone, a good idea and a steady(ish) hand. Don’t believe me? These creators prove it.
In this Monthly Cut, we’re looking at five creators who are facing common ‘barriers’ to creating content. Some are filming with iPhones, others are intentionally posting those awkward vlogging moments and tackling perfectionist tendencies – all are showing up to their craft weekly out of a love of it. Maybe they’ll inspire you to do the same?
ChromaDecay: Film with what you have
It’s easy to get caught in a ‘gear trap’ and believe you need the latest tech to create. ChromaDecay is proof you don’t need to wait. Through camera reviews, travel vlogs and real sit-down chats, he shares what life can look like “when you stop waiting for the perfect set up.” The result? Deeply cinematic, in-the-moment footage that would feel right at home on the big screen.
The video → A case for filming with your smartphone over a camera set up.
Why I love it → This video is a reminder of all the benefits of filming with what you have, and the quality of the shots prove that a phone is still one of the best bits of gear out there.
Get inspired → Leave your camera at home this week and practice reaching for your phone instead. Filming in this way can help you quickly capture moments you might have otherwise missed.
Kaylee LaMoine: Find your mission statement
Purpose is vital for all creators; it keeps us motivated, inspired and excited to create. Kaylee’s channel is full of purpose, and you can feel it. Her clear mission to help creators find their spark and “film without fear” underpins all her videos which span inspirational chats, gear reviews and an entire series dedicated to overcoming the universal fear of filming in public.
The video → The inspiration you need to pick up the camera.
Why I love it → Kaylee’s beautiful, slow-paced shots of ordinary moments perfectly reflect her message: making videos shouldn’t just be about views and subscribers, but instead a way to “pay attention to your life” and remember it.
Get inspired → If you want an audience to remember your video, end with a strong impactful message that will keep people thinking long after they’ve liked and subscribed.
dj obrien: Capture authentic moments
“People don’t connect with perfection, they connect with honesty,” says Dermot and that’s exactly what his content is: honest and authentic. His videos span sit-down chats, travel vlogs, and real moments with friends and family, all shot with a warm nostalgic color grade and expert eye for those funny, quirky moments that make up real life.
The video → Quality time spent with family.
Why I love it → The urge to film whilst also wanting to stay present in the moment, is a common struggle many creators deal with. Dermot talks honestly about it which adds a massive layer of human depth that goes way beyond a typical travel vlog.
Get inspired → Your struggles are often your audience’s too, so don’t be afraid to share real, unfiltered moments (like Dermot’s initial awkwardness filming around family). These are often what makes people stick around.
Tapoyo: Follow your interests
In the words of Tapoyo, he ‘really likes anime’ – enough to make an entire channel dedicated to it. From anime-themed skits, to intros, outros and short films, this creator has hit on a universal truth when it comes to making videos: follow your niche interests and there’s an audience out there who enjoys exactly the same thing.
The video → A trip to Japan edited to look like a classic anime intro.
Why I love it → Naruto. One Piece. Tapoyo…? The expert use of intentional pacing - from quiet slow builds to high-energy, rapid sequences - makes Tapoyo’s entire edit feel right at home among the classics.
Get inspired → Have lots of footage but don’t know how to use it? Music can be the thread that ties it all together. Choose a song (like Tapoyo’s Japanese theme tune), and work to match the pace and cuts with the beats of the track.
Pint Stone: Nail your signature look
Once you’ve locked down your identity as a creator, it gets even easier to experiment with your content. Pint’s signature filmmaking style and dreamlike color grading follow her across platforms and formats, clearly marking her videos as hers, whether she’s sharing fun hacks like making a video game loading screen, camera walks with cats or vlogs with friends.
The video → Bangkok: shot on the Sony ZV-E10.
Why I love it → The best camera walks aren’t just pretty, they’re aspirational too. Pint’s Sony ZV-E10 set-up is proof that anyone can shoot professional looking travel edits without spending thousands on gear.
Get inspired → Your camera doesn’t make your final edit – you do. Get curious about different filming techniques, angles and color grades until you hit upon a winning formula that keeps viewers hooked.
Start creating with what you have
I’ve shared five creators who are facing their creative blocks to make bold and exciting pieces of content… maybe now you’ll be inspired to do the same.
If you take anything away from this month’s Cut it’s that great content doesn’t start with the latest set up, but with a good story. Want to improve your storytelling and don’t know where to start? Check out my blog with Uppbeat where I share 6 tips for creating videos your audience will connect with. See you next month!
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