The past few years have seen a proliferation of vlogs, spanning from high-budget studio productions to low-cost at-home set-ups. A whole host of equipment is used to ensure that high-quality video and audio content is captured to give it more viral potential.
In this article, we will go over the global vlogging camera market, analyzing market size, segment distribution, and prospects for market growth. We will then focus on the must-have vlogging equipment for beginner vloggers that consumer electronics retailers should stock in 2022.
Table of Contents
What is vlogging and why is it so popular now?
Global vlogging camera market
Top vlogging equipment for beginners
Lights, camera, action!
What is vlogging and why is it so popular now?
Vlogging, also known as video blogging, is the generation of media content in video format. It features a wide range of content, including daily routines, travel vlogs, family vlogs, video essays, and Q&As shared on popular video-sharing platforms such as YouTube and Tik Tok, or social media platforms such as Facebook Watch and Instagram’s IGTV.
The growth of social media and video-sharing platforms has had an outsize impact on the vlogging industry as the platforms have provided vloggers with an easy and often free way of publishing their content.
Smartphones have also had a significant impact on the vlogging industry because they have democratized participation in media. With just a smartphone in their hands, creative individuals can become viral sensations and use advanced camera technology to create high-quality content without expensive equipment.
Another reason why vlogging has grown in popularity is related to its viability. Because vloggers are now able to generate revenue through advertising revenue-sharing models on video platforms, more people have found it viable to switch to vlogging full-time.
Global vlogging camera market
Mobility Foresights projects that there will be increased sales for cameras that are used exclusively for vlogging, with a 22% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) over the 2021–2026 forecast period.
When it comes to market value, the global vlogging camera market had a value of US$ 486 million in 2020, and it is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18% until 2026.
Geographically, the US holds the largest market share (by volume) at 23%, and it is expected to grow to 25–26% by 2025. The top brands within the vlogging camera market include Sony, Canon, and GoPro, particularly because of the high-quality entry-level equipment models they offer.
Top vlogging equipment for beginners
Cameras
Digital or DSLR cameras
Because vlogs are primarily about video, cameras are the top pieces of gear vloggers need in their arsenal. Digital or DSLR cameras are the cameras of choice for beginner and professional vloggers alike because they allow the capturing of high-quality video.
Some cameras allow for shooting in low-light conditions, ensuring that whatever time filming is, the vlogger can capture high-resolution video. DSLR or mirrorless cameras may, however, be a little too pricey for beginners on a low budget, making second-hand versions good options.
Smartphones
Smartphones are the cheapest and fastest way into vlogging, and the higher-end versions allow vloggers to capture more sophisticated videos.
Depending on the required set-up, smartphones are probably the best camera option for absolute beginners as they give them a chance to try out different set-ups without committing to one financially. Newer smartphones also have a range of filters and video settings that vloggers can play around with for even more creative videos.
Drones
A drone is certainly not a requirement, but if the content is being captured for travel vlogs or if a lot of outdoor settings are used, then this is certainly a must-have for capturing high-quality aerial footage. Camera drones instantly elevate the production value of video content.
Optics
Camera or smartphone lenses
Smartphone or camera lenses are essentially the eye of the camera and come in a range of sizes to capture a range of frames.
Depending on the type of vlog content or the desired effect, vloggers can choose from zoom, prime, standard, wide-angle, telephoto, macro, and fisheye lenses.
Lens accessories
Camera lens accessories include a wide range of products that are used along with lenses or to protect them. These include lens caps and hoods, lens mount adapters, ND filters, cleaning kits, and cases.
They are a great investment, whether for smartphone or camera lenses, because repairing or replacing lenses can be very expensive.
Audio
Shotgun microphones
Shotgun microphones are directional microphones that pick up sound in the direction they are pointed in, meaning little background noise is picked up. These microphones can either be mounted directly on the camera or on adjustable boom stands.
USB microphones
USB microphones offer users the convenience of easy set-up on computers, meaning they do not require additional batteries or charging. USB mics are commonly used for voice-over work or desk set-ups.
Portable audio recorders
If the user wants to maximize both portability and audio quality, then the portable audio recorder is a good option to go for.
These are advanced sound recorders that capture higher-quality audio. They are used alongside XLR microphones or built-in microphones.
Headphones
To ensure that perfectly balanced sound is captured on set, it is important to have a pair of headphones that helps with monitoring audio levels during filming and post-production editing. Versions with plush leatherette cushions or adjustable headbands make for more comfortable listening and a snug fit.
Support
Tripods
Tripods help to stabilize cameras so that users can maintain their frames for as long as needed. Build quality, sturdiness, and extension height are essential components to look at when purchasing.
Mini tripods
Sometimes the angles that need to be captured are quite low and the devices being used to capture the video are small and lightweight. In these instances, mini tripods are most ideal as they work as compact stabilizers for smaller cameras or mobile phones.
Gimbals
For users looking to capture high-quality, versatile video content, gimbals are certainly a must-have. They are handheld stabilizers that keep moving cameras steady while on an axis.
Grip style, build, axis movement, and easy-access buttons are key aspects to consider when purchasing.
Lighting
Softbox lights
Lighting is a crucial aspect of videography as the quality of the lighting on set affects the overall video quality.
Softbox lights offer lighting that is diffused through a panel to simulate the softness of natural light. These lights are popular with beginners as high-quality versions can be found at affordable prices.
Ring lights
Ring lights are a popular and essential lighting option for vloggers. They are highly economical while delivering great lighting that simulates daylight and eliminates shadows.
Ring lights are favorites among YouTubers. The set-up typically includes an adjustable mount or a tripod.
Other accessories
Green screens
Green screens allow vloggers to add interesting and creative visual effects and backgrounds to their videos in post-production. Prices are often determined by the size and quality of the screen.
Backpacks
For vloggers who are constantly on the go, backpacks are the perfect way to transport equipment safely. Backpack versions specifically designed for audio and video equipment offer more secure storage.
Remote shutters
Remote shutters connect via Bluetooth to enable control of the filming device’s shutter release and capture footage remotely. These devices are extremely useful as they free up the vlogger from having to get up and press “Record” each time.
Lights, camera, action!
Vlogging is here to stay, and the vlogging equipment market will experience an uptrend as a result. To capitalize on this growth, consumer electronics retailers should stock the must-have vlogging equipment that people starting out in vlogging are looking for.
Be a part of the action by updating your product catalog to include the following top vlogging equipment for beginner vloggers:
- Digital or DSLR cameras
- Smartphones
- Drones
- Smartphone or camera lenses
- Lens accessories
- Shotgun microphones
- USB microphones
- Portable audio recorders
- Headphones
- Tripods
- Mini tripods
- Gimbals
- Softbox lights
- Ring lights
- Green screens
- Backpacks
- Remote shutters
Discover more consumer electronics trends here.
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