If you have important video calls (for example, you fundraise as the CEO of a company), you should have a good webcam setup. This post contains everything you need for one, at a cost of $700-$2,000, depending on which options you choose.
I. Camera
Most webcams are not very good, and you’ll want a real DLSR camera instead, optionally with a better lens:
Camera: Sony Alpha ZV-E10 ($800 with lens, $700 without)
Lens: Sigma 16mm f/1.4 Lens ($380)
II. Microphone
Although cheaper microphones work, it may be nice to have a high-end microphone which doesn’t get in your way:
Microphone: Rode NTG4+ Shotgun Microphone ($340)
III. Camera Accessories
Buy a power adapter for the camera so you never have to charge it: F1TP AC-PW20 AC Power Adapter ($25)
Buy a capture card for the camera for the best video quality and lowest latency: Elgato Cam Link 4K ($90)
IV. Mounts
You probably want to mount your camera behind and above your primary monitor. I use a large desk mount for this, but if you are often travelling or on a laptop, a smaller one works.
Base camera mount: Elgato Desk Clamp ($40)
Camera mount extension: Elgato Flex Arm ($40)
If you have a shotgun microphone, you should buy a mount for it too, placing it right behind your monitor and aiming the microphone towards you.
Desk-Mounted Boom Mic Arm ($72 with Amazon coupon)
Microphone Shock Mount ($13)
V. More accessories
You will need to connect your camera to the USB capture card, which then plugs into your computer:
4K Micro HDMI -> HDMI Cable ($10)
You will need to connect your microphone to your camera to include it in your HDMI stream, which also ensures it’s perfectly in sync with your video:
3.5mm Male to XLR Female Cable ($9)
If you want to use the microphone without the camera, you’ll want this cable
USB Male to XLR Female Cable ($13)
If you want to use your camera for outdoor filming, you’ll also want:
SD card ($12-$156)
SD Card Reader ($13) as well
If you don’t have a good lighting setup, you may want to purchase some lights as well:
Elgato Key Light – 2800 Lumens ($180)
VI. Configuration
You’ll have to change a few settings on the camera to have a good streaming experience.
It’s a popular camera, so if you don’t know how to do something, just search on Youtube. I found this video which helped me with a few settings such as: set the overheating threshold to high, add ‘USB streaming’ mode to the quick menu if you are not using a capture card, and turn the steady shot option off.
The most important item in this list by far is the camera – the microphone and lighting isn’t nearly as crucial for a good setup. Special thanks to Cory, CEO of Spellbrush, for helping me with all of this myself!