Tools of the trade
No matter where you are on your online Influencer path, there are amazing tools and technology that can save you time, take your production to that next level and allow you to create the content you dream about!
The trick is knowing what to invest in and what NOT to spend money on, especially if just starting out.
I have taken the legwork out of researching the best tools and technology.
After interviewing over 100 influencers and industry insiders as well as trying and using many of the tools myself, I have compiled a curated list of the best tech and business tools that the pros and full time YouTubers use.
Many of these links are affiliate links, which means I may get a commission if you purchase. However, none of the fees of these resources have been increased to compensate me. Your purchase via these links is very much appreciated and used to directly support the free weekly podcast and resources offered!
Technology Equipment for Beginners
More Advanced Tech Tools
Business and Branding Tools
Technology Equipment for Beginners
Can you start a YouTube channel with just your iPhone and a MacBook? Sure, and if your resources are limited, one of the best pieces of advice is to just get started.
However, in today's competitive influencer and YouTube landscape, investing in a few key pieces of equipment for your YouTube channel can make a world of difference and set you apart from the rest.
Below is a list of tools recommended for people just getting started on YouTube or who are looking to invest in a couple good starter tech tools.
Canon G7 X 9546B001 PowerShot Digital Camera
This is a great starter vlogging camera that gets recommended often. It is small so it can technically fit in your pocket. It has WiFi, the picture quality is excellent but it doesn't have the mirrored flip up screen that the Sony a5100 has. This camera also does not have an external microphone input, however the sound quality is very good.
Sony a5100 16-50mm Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch Flip Up LCD (Black)
This camera is great for beauty because of the mirrored flip up screen. Another great feature is that the camera comes with WiFi so it is easy to take photos and video and send it to your devices. The camera also has a great face perfecting feature that makes your skin look airbrushed. One con is that it lacks an external microphone input. The sound quality is decent, so it's not a huge issue. However, for the price, the overall camera quality and ease of use is great.
Canon EF 40mm f/2.8 STM Lens
This is an excellent lens if you are looking to get into lenses and upgrade your camera. This lens is super tiny, it autofocuses fast and has great color balance.
Audio-Technica ATR2100-USB Microphone
Great voiceover mic. This is the one I use for my podcasts! It's a great price and works great.
Lavalier Microphone
Very inexpensive lavalier microphone.
Tripod
Great inexpensive basic tripod.
Soft boxes
Soft boxes are a must! They are probably the first investment you should make in lighting if you are in beauty, fashion, fitness and lifestyle.
Backdrop Support Stand
Muslin Clamps for Backdrop
More Advanced Tech Tools
So, you are looking to upgrade your existing vlogging camera or lighting set-up. This list of tools is for the more seasoned YouTuber looking to upgrade their equipment OR a beginner with a decent budget looking to fast-track to top influencer status.
Sony RX100
This is a popular vlogging camera, films in 4k, can shoot in sLog and has an excellent electronic viewfinder. It's size makes it great for on the go. If you are looking to upgrade your vlogging camera, or start off with a great one, this would be it.
Canon EOS 80D Digital SLR Camera Body
This is probably the #1 recommended camera for someone looking to be serious about their YouTube Channel. Canon's 80D is a great option for all YouTubers who are looking to start on a solid foot with excellent quality. The newer 80D version has a new headphone jack, faster autofocus, time-lapse mode and lots more. It is the go-to camera for YouTubers.
Panasonic GH5
This is an amazing camera and a favorite amongst professional videographers and photographers. If you have the budget and are looking to compete with the pros, this would be the camera for you.
High End: Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L USM Lens for Canon Digital SLR Cameras - Fixed
If you get only one lens, this should be it. Great for the YouTuber looking to upgrade their camera.
Rode VMGO Video Mic GO Lightweight On-Camera Microphone
This is a highly recommended external mic for DSLR's.
Ring Light
Excellent ring light highly recommended by dozens of makeup influencers.
LaCie external hard drive
This is a great external hard drive and the one that I rely on. I've had it for years and it is easy to use and performs well.
Business and Branding Tools
On top of tech equipment, there are numerous online resources and websites that help with YouTube SEO, website creation and organization. This list is my tried and true and favorite.
TubeBuddy
This is the #1 tool I recommend for anyone who has a YouTube channel. You can use the free version and get a lot out of it, but I highly recommend the Pro version (less than $10 a month) to really benefit from the SEO tools. You would be crazy not to use this!
Use promo code
ErikasBuddy for 20% off
Bluehost
If you are a blogger looking to get started, or, you want to create a website in addition to your social accounts (which I recommend and encourage you to do), you will need a great hosting service. I rely on Bluehost. They are reliable and dependable and as a huge bonus, their customer service is amazing.
Influenster
Looking to score some free products? This is probably the best website to do it. This free service basically sends you boxes (called VoxBoxes) to review on your platforms. To earn a box, connect your social accounts to receive an impact score. The higher your score, the more boxes you get. However, you can earn a higher score just by reviewing products and engaging on their website. I have received a ton of great product from them!
DIY Video School
I featured Caleb on the podcast. He has created some incredible courses, both free and paid that will really teach you everything you need to know about the technical side of filming, lighting, editing and photography. I would highly recommend checking out his courses. He knows his stuff and has a clear, easy to follow, instructional style.
Use promo code
BEAUTYVLOG for 10% off
Evernote
I love Evernote and use it daily to help me keep track of my work. I use the desktop version as well as the iPhone app. I seriously couldn't live without it!
TailWind
This is my favorite, go-to tool when it comes to Pinterest. I would not be able to manage my Pinterest without TailWind. It's amazing and automates your pins.
99designs
I utilized this service when I created my first logo. It is a little pricey, but if you are wanting a stand-out logo and branding, then this is a great value for what you get.