Mistake 1: Listening to Social Media

Nowadays, many creators show off their camera's low-light capabilities—like the Sony FX3 (link) with its 12800 dual native ISO. Don’t let that get to your head. Most creators aim to convert you into a customer through affiliate links. Don’t fall for the sales tactics.

If you’re starting out in videography, look for bang-for-buck cameras. Top-tier models often include features you won’t need as a beginner and may end up frustrating you while draining your wallet.

There’s no secret camera that guarantees cinematic results. It’s about the grade, lighting, and composition. Talented videographers could shoot a blockbuster on a smartphone.

Work with what you have and what you can afford. Start experimenting with sunlight through a kitchen window or stairway lighting before worrying about 6K at 120FPS.

If you’re unsure on what you actually need, here's what i would look for:

Most high-quality content online is shot in 4K 30fps (excluding iPhones—their sensors don’t compare). If the camera supports that in a log profile, you’re good.

A log profile saves the video in a flat color format, giving you more flexibility in post-production. Be aware that high-resolution sensors (great for photography) don’t benefit video as much—you’ll either compromise or spend more.

Choose a setup that fits your shooting style:

• Run & Gun: Sony FX30 (link) or A6700 (link).
• Hybrid (photo + video): Sony A7C II (link) or Lumix S5 II (link).
• Futureproof: Lumix S1 II (link), Sony A7V (link), or Canon R5 II (link).

Mistake 2: Expecting One Camera or Lens to Do It All

You can’t get everything from a single camera or lens. If you want more focal range, you’ll likely sacrifice low-light performance. Therefore aim for lenses with a constant aperture (e.g., f/2.8 when zooming). Skip the telephoto lenses and stay simple, no need for your setup to do 6K 5x Slow-Mo, if youre only shooting talking head videos.

Here’s my optimal (minimal) setup:

Get a 24–70mm lens (link) and maybe one or two prime lenses. It’s the best balance of versatility and cost. Remember, you’ll need to carry all this gear.

Same goes for rigs—don’t overcomplicate. You probably don’t need a Ninja Monitor or cinema rig. A cheap Shinobi (link) and a top handle are enough.

Mistake 3: Neglecting Lighting Basics

Not learning lighting basics has cost me the most—both in time and money.

Great-looking video depends heavily on good lighting. Since golden hour isn’t always available, most videos use controlled lighting setups. A decent lighting setup will cost you around €500, but it lets you shoot anytime, anywhere. With RGB lights, you gain creative flexibility.

If I had to start from scratch, here’s what I’d buy:

• Primary Light: Amaran 150c (link) or 300c (link). Choose RGB if budget allows.
• Softbox: Get one like this (link) to diffuse light and avoid harsh shadows. Size 70–100cm is optimal.
• Accent Light: Amaran Ace 25 (link)—compact, portable, and what I use personally.
• Light Stand: A simple stand or a C-Stand (link) for flexible positioning.
• Mounting Accessories: SmallRig magic arm (link) for mounting to a desk, wall, or tripod.

Honorable Mention: Skipping practice and grading

Many people skip the most important part: Practice. Try lighting setups, film tests, edits. Being creative and having fun is what it’s all about. Same goes for color grading, which alows you to paint the image like you want, the log file is just a base for you to build out your creative ideas.

Don’t expect top results right away. Instead, enjoy the process of becoming your best self.

P:s: There is no "future self" if you don’t start today.