What is the best way to select cameras, lenses, and lighting for pre-production?

Choosing the right camera for talking head videos is essential for achieving professional results. Consider DSLR or mirrorless cameras for their image quality, interchangeable lenses, and clean HDMI output. Opt for at least 1080p resolution and ensure good low-light performance. Reliable auto-focus and face detection are crucial, as is the option for external microphone support. A flip screen, image stabilization, and user-friendly interfaces enhance the shooting experience. Your choice should also align with your budget and post-processing capabilities. Popular options are the Canon EOS M50 II, Sony a7siii, Panasonic Lumix GH5, and the Logitech C920 for webcams. Check the latest models and reviews to make decisions.

Pretty much any camera that has come out in the last 5 years will be able to get the job done. Don't worry too much about having the latest and greatest - learn composition and lighting first.

I wouldn’t worry too much about type of camera, as most cameras that have come out in the last 3-5 years are ample sufficient in terms of quality and autofocus. The most important thing would be to pay attention to composition, storytelling and lighting to really drive the feeling you’re trying to convey. The only camera consideration I would worry about is full frame or crop sensor, as there are different lens considerations for each option.

For crisp and cinematic looks, the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II is a versatile choice for varied shooting conditions. The Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 is great for bokeh effects in interviews or product shots. For wide shots, the Sigma 18-35mm f/1.8 DC HSM Art lens is great for its sharpness and speed. Each of these lenses brings something unique to the table, enhancing the visual storytelling of your video production.

Understanding how different focal lengths effect shots can determine which lenses you will use. Also, if you are shooting in a low light scenario you'll need a fast lens (larger aperture). Typically, you'll want to be able to cover 3 shots - wide, medium and tight.

Lens choice would depend on the type of project. An interview would most likely require an 80 or 90 mm for close ups and maybe a 35 or 50 for the wide. There are many consideration that come into play, and most are to do with what kind of emotion or feeling you’re trying to drive home. Another consideration would be location. Are you filming outdoors at night? You almost definitely need a fast lens like a 1.8 or 1.4.

Softbox lighting is excellent for filming videos. They contain a diffuser material that scatters and softens the light, reducing harsh shadows and creating a gentle, even illumination. Use a stable light stand and position the softbox at an angle and distance relative to your subject and the desired effect. The closer the softbox is to the issue, the softer and more dramatic the light will be. Adjust the intensity of the light by changing the power settings on your light source. You can also modify it by adding grids or gels to create specific effects. Softbox lighting is excellent for interviews and product shots, as it offers a controlled and soft quality of light that enhances details while minimising shadows and highlights.

Choose lighting equipment based on the desired look of your project. Consider factors such as light intensity, color temperature, and control options. Learn how to use natural light to your advantage.

Video light sources are divided into two types: natural and artificial. Natural light from the sun is perfect during cloudy or overcast conditions, giving a soft, even appearance. However, its intensity and colour can change throughout the day. So it's often necessary to use artificial lights to enhance your setup. I recommend professional bi-colour LED lights. They can adjust between warm and cool light and are dimmable, making them ideal for matching natural light in any setting. Remember, all light has a colour temperature, measured in Kelvins (K), showing whether the light appears cooler (daylight is around 5500K) or warmer (tungsten bulbs are 3200K-ish). So make sure all your lights match in colour temperature for the best result!

The best way to go about choosing lighting options would be to know what kind of emotion your project is trying to convey. After that, the best thing to do (in my opinion) would be to look at references that match your vision on a platform like Shot Deck and analyze the lighting. Why do these references match the feeling you’re trying to achieve? Where is the light coming from? How does it fall on the subject? What is the contrast ratio? Why is the image composed the way it is? A helpful tip would be to save these references and import them into an NLE like Resolve and analyze them using the scopes.