My Faves

Often times I get asked what technology I am using to run my consulting business, you’ll find a host of things below.

Affiliate Disclaimer: Bear in mind that some of the links in this post are affiliate links and if you go through them to make a purchase I will earn a commission. Keep in mind that I link these companies and their products because of their quality and not because of the commission I receive from your purchases. The decision is yours, and whether or not you decide to buy something is completely up to you.

Stores [for ordering things]

Amazon Prime

Cost: $119/year 

The price seems steep, but it’s totally worth it. Two day shipping and no tax – umm yes.

Email Service Providers [for email lists]

ConvertKit

Cost: $29/month

I have been using Convertkit and working with them for over a year – hands down the best email service provider for deliverability. 

 

Camera & Lighting Equipment [for vlogs]

Beginner’s Vlog Camera: Sony A5100

Price I Paid: $300 

My camera, the Sony A5000 has been discontinued, this is the next step up. I got mine as an open box camera from Best Buy. Find one on sale before spending $500 on this camera. There are better DSLR cameras out there, but this one fits nicely in a purse or carry-on bag. You can also get away with filming videos on your phone or computer, but a DSLR camera will provide a little extra crispness.

Tripod: ButterflyPhoto Professional 72-inch Tripod

Price I Paid: $26.95

This is great tripod for vlogging if you’re just getting started and have a lightweight camera. The description states that it is made for all Sony, Nikon, Samsung, Panasonic, Olympus, Kodak, and Fuji cameras. However, check the weight limit as well as the weight of your camera to ensure it will hold. It is very light and easy to travel with.

Lighting: Neewer LED Ring Light 14″ 

Price I Paid: $89.99

Most of the time, I’m using natural lighting (the easiest and cheapest!). This means, I’m filming in front of a window. When I need a little extra brightness for a webinar, vlog, video meeting, or a good selfie – I get in front of this ring light. It’s TOTALLY worth it!

Back Up Batteries: Powerextra 2 Pack Replacement 

Price I Paid: $16.99

There’s nothing worse than filming and seeing the battery go dead or your memory card become full. Pay the money and get you a back up battery for your camera. 

 

Audio Equipment [for podcasts and video voiceovers]

Microphone: Blue Yeti USB Microphone

Price I Paid: $89.99

Microphone: Blue Snowball iCE Condenser Microphone

Price I Paid: Can’t remember (No more than $40!)

 

I started on the Blue Snowball iCE Microphone because of the price (obviously), but I have to say the Blue Yeti Microphone is 10 times better! Both will get you through, but the Blue Snowball iCE Microphone is typically omnidirectional, meaning it only picks up noise clear from the front. The Yeti Microphone has a few different settings so you can pick up sounds in a circular pattern or on each side – great for interviewing in person. Additionally, the sound quality is just a million times better. 

SoundBooth: Rockville Recording Studio Microphone Isolation Shield + Heavy Duty Tripod Stand

Price I Paid: $89.95

This is completely optional – especially if you get the Blue Yeti Microphone. Sound waves bounce off walls so often times you’ll hear echos if you’re in a large room or have high ceilings. Depending on where you record, if you have treated walls, or if you’re recording in a closet with clothes that absorb the sound; you may want to invest in a portable sound shield. 

Pop Filter: Neewer 6 inch Studio Microphone Mic Round Shape Wind Pop Filter Mask Shield with Stand Clip

Price I Paid: $8.99

Video Hosting [for webinars, vlogs, video conferences]

Zoom

Cost: $16/month