My Camera Setup – How I Film Process Videos for YouTube

This is a question I get asked frequently (and it has changed often over the years) so I’m going to share my setup with you in this blog post today.  I will show you photos of what equipment I use and how I set up my camera to film process videos for my YouTube channel.

Here is my camera and stand all setup on my desk:  (Click on the images to zoom in)

What camera do I use?

I use the JVC Everio HD (Model No: GZ-HM30AU).  It has an awesome auto zoom and is extremely easy to use. It has a flip screen so I can see what I’m doing while I’m filming.  Mine is several years old so there are newer models available now and you can see them by clicking HERE.

Do I use a tripod to hold my camera?

No, I use a Talent MS-3 Low Profile Tripod Mic Stand w/Telescopic Boom.  It looks like this:

It is much smaller than a tripod and lighter as well.  The upside is, well it’s smaller and lighter (LOL), the downside is  that it won’t hold a heavy camera without tipping over. It holds mine must fine but if you have a big, heavy camera, this is not the stand for you.  I frequently “knock” into the stand because I’m a klutz so I have one leg taped down to my desk to keep from knocking it over but you do not need to do that, I just do it as a precaution because I am lacking in grace. (LOL)

How do you attach the camera to the stand?

I purchased this Video Camera/Digital Recorder Adapter which screws onto the end of the stand and then the camera screws onto the adapter.  Once the adapter is on, this is what it looks like up close.  (before you attach the camera) (Sorry for the blurry picture)

How do you light up your craft room when filming?

I live near Seattle so it’s not sunny very often, thus the need for extra lighting.  I purchased these Umbrella lights for use in my craft room.

This is the CowboyStudio Photography/Video Portrait Umbrella Continuous Triple Lighting Kit.  It comes with three lights, two umbrellas and special daylight light bulbs that ROCK.  This whole kit was about $45.00 so all in all, much cheaper than other lighting solutions!  While I will admit that I don’t really care for having these ugly lights in my craft room (takes away from the visual appeal), it makes the lighting feel like I’m out in the sunshine which is nearly non existent where I live, not to mention the fact that my videos are bright and light!

Here are my Umbrella lights in action:

There are other ways to set up your camera but I’m on a budget and this setup works well for me and my craft space .

My Recording Devices

This is the microphone that I use:

CAD U37 USB Studio Condenser Recording Microphone – This is the microphone I use to narrate my process videos and to do voice overs.  It is excellent and I pair it with this POP Filter to ensure the best sound quality.

Dragonpad® Studio Microphone Mic Wind Screen Pop Filter Swivel Mount 360 Flexible Gooseneck Holder

As you can see, I chose high quality, yet affordable equipment to film my videos.  After all, I don’t get paid for doing this, right? (LOL)

Hopefully this post has given you some ideas for your own craft space.  If you have any questions about any of the products that I use, or how I have everything set up in my craft room, just leave a comment and I’ll get right back to you.  Happy Filming!