# What equipment do you really need as a new creator?

> Less than you think. A smartphone, good light from a window and something to prop your phone up with are enough to start. If you want to invest, start with a clip-on microphone and a simple ring light or LED lamp: sound and light make a bigger difference than a better camera. Buy extra equipment only when you notice you actually need it.

- Canonical: https://www.influentials.com/en-us/knowledge/for-creators/equipment-for-new-creators
- Locale: en-us
- Hub: creators
- Published: 2026-11-05
- Updated: 2026-11-05

---

Many new creators think they need a professional camera and a full studio before they can start. That's not true. Most successful UGC is made with a phone and a few simple tools. Here's what you really need, and what can wait.

## The essentials

- **A smartphone.** Modern phones film in high quality and are more than good enough for almost every campaign. Use the rear camera for the best image.
- **Good light.** Daylight from a window is free and works perfectly. Read [How to get good lighting in your videos](https://www.influentials.com/knowledge/for-creators/good-lighting-for-your-videos) for tips.
- **Something to put your phone on.** A stack of books, a mug or a simple phone stand keeps your phone steady, so your hands are free.
- **A quiet space.** For clear sound, a quiet room with soft furnishings is often enough. Read [How to record clear audio](https://www.influentials.com/knowledge/for-creators/how-to-record-clear-audio) for tips.

## The first upgrades worth buying

If you want to invest, buy these in this order:

1. **A clip-on microphone.** Sound is often the weakest point in creator content. A wireless clip-on microphone that connects to your phone makes the biggest difference for a modest investment.
2. **A ring light or small LED lamp.** Useful for filming in the evening, in winter or in a dark room. Choose one where you can adjust the brightness and color temperature.
3. **A small tripod with a phone holder.** This lets you film at the right height and from different angles, steadily and hands-free.
4. **A Bluetooth remote.** Start and stop recording without touching your phone, so your image doesn't shake.

## Handy, but not necessary

- **A plain background or surface.** A tablecloth, a wooden board or a large sheet of paper gives your product shots a calm, tidy look.
- **A reflector.** A white sheet of paper or a piece of foam board brightens shadows on your face or product.

## What can wait

- **A professional camera.** Your phone is more than good enough for social media, and brands often prefer the natural look of phone content.
- **A gimbal.** With good technique and a phone stand, you can film steady footage without one. Read [How to keep your footage steady without expensive gear](https://www.influentials.com/knowledge/for-creators/steady-footage-without-expensive-gear) for tips.
- **A studio setup.** Real environments, such as your home or kitchen, often make content more authentic.
- **Expensive editing software.** Free apps are more than enough. Read [Which free editing apps can you use for UGC?](https://www.influentials.com/knowledge/for-creators/free-editing-apps-for-ugc) for tips.

## Tips for buying equipment

- **Buy as you go.** Only buy something when you notice you're missing it, not because others use it.
- **Consider second-hand.** Many accessories are available second-hand in good condition.
- **Invest in sound and light first.** These make a bigger difference to the quality of your content than a better camera.
- **Learn to use what you have.** Good technique is worth more than expensive equipment.

Ready to start? [Sign up as a creator](https://www.influentials.com/become-a-creator) and get matched with brands looking for content like yours.