Starting a YouTube channel and learning how to shoot YouTube videos can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it can also be a daunting task, especially when it comes to choosing the right lighting equipment. Your YouTube lighting setup needs will vary depending on the nature of your content and channel, and it's important to have everything set up in just the right way.
Since you're going to be spending money to get the best lighting you can, it's important to invest in product protection for your purchases as well. With a Mulberry Unlimited subscription, you can get coverage for all your Youtube lighting and camera needs under the same product protection plan.
What are essential lights for video recording?
Let's take a look at some of the essential lighting you need to start your YouTube channel.
Softbox lights
As the name suggests, these produce a soft, even light, and they’re ideal for eliminating harsh shadows. Softbox lights are made up of a lightbulb housed in a box, covered in a white fabric diffuser that softens the light. The diffusion panel helps create an even and diffused light that's ideal for close-up shots, interviews, and product reviews.
One popular option for softbox lights is the Fovitec StudioPRO Softbox Lighting Kit. This kit includes two softbox lights, two stands, and a carrying case, so it' easy to set up and transport. It’s also on the more affordable side at around $200, making it an excellent option for beginners.
Ring lights
Regardless of your niche, most online creators have a ring light for YouTube content because they produce an even, flattering light that eliminates harsh shadows.
These circular lights create a halo-like effect, making them ideal for close-up shots and beauty videos. Try to opt for a ring light with a stand so you aren’t stuck without a way to mount it at the right height.
There are ring lights out there to fit every budget. You can easily find a ring light at Walmart online for less than $50. When you’re ready to upgrade your space, there are more sophisticated models that are priced at over $200.
LED lights
YouTube creators can’t go wrong with LED lights—they're energy-efficient, long-lasting, and emit less heat than normal fluorescent lights, which makes them safer to use for extended periods. You can find them in a variety of sizes, from small on-camera lights to LED ring lights and larger panel lights.
The Aputure AL-M9 is a popular and affordable option for your lighting setup at $30. This small, lightweight LED light produces a bright, even light that's perfect for on-camera use. It’s also dimmable, so you’re always free to adjust the brightness as necessary.
Light stands
Any time you’re setting up lighting for video, you should have some light stands on hand, as they provide a stable base for your lights. From small tabletop stands to larger, heavy-duty stands, they’re available in a variety of sizes and styles.
One popular option for light stands is the Neewer Photo Studio Lighting Stand, which comes with their softbox lighting kit. Made of durable aluminum alloy, this light stand can support up to 8.8 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of lighting setups. It goes for around $112 on Amazon.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, video lighting for YouTube might seem complicated, but it doesn’t need to be. As long as you’re realistic with your needs and budget, there’s something out there for every creator, so don’t let anything hold you back from getting started!
Make sure you subscribe to Mulberry Unlimited to protect all your YouTube channel equipment, so you can have peace of mind while you create your best content.
