Get the gear: What you need to boost your digital storytelling skills

VizWrkShopselfie

The best gear for visual storytelling is whatever you have with you at the time. You can capture ambient noise with a top-notch microphone or the voice recorder app on your phone. You can take photos with a DSLR camera or a basic point-and-shoot. Scouting moments happen in an instant, so be prepared.

Photographs: From your iPhone to a full-blown DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) camera, this piece of gear is a very personal choice based on your budget, preferences and skill level. If you want to invest in a camera, choose one with Wi-Fi capabilities to make photo sharing a cinch.

Sound: Find a high-quality digital sound recorder — such as the Zoom H1 Handy Recorder ($100) — that will fit in your pocket. Or plug an external mic, like the the Rode smartLav+ lavalier microphone ($90), directly into your smartphone.

Video: Consider the Canon VIXIA mini X ($400), which offers a full HD camcorder and camera with Wi-Fi for sharing to social media using an iOS device. You can’t go wrong with a GoPro action camera ($130-$500). These small, weather-resistant cameras come in several styles and are easy to mount on bike handlebars, canoe gunwales and climbing helmets. Some let you control from your phone or tablet using a free app.

Share your favorite digital storytelling gadgets in the comments below.


Be the first to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.


*