The Full $500 Kit
- Camera ($0): Your smartphone — modern flagships shoot better than prosumer cameras from 5 years ago
- Microphone ($80): Blue Snowball iCE USB mic
- Lighting ($120): Elgato Key Light Air or Neewer 18″ ring light
- Tripod/Mount ($40): Gorilla pod + phone mount
- Backdrop ($60): Muslin backdrop kit from Amazon
- Editing Software ($0): DaVinci Resolve (free, professional-grade)
- Remaining $200: Acoustic foam panels — the single highest-ROI upgrade for audio
The Upgrade Path
Once you’re generating revenue, upgrade in this order: better mic → better camera → better lights → dedicated lens.
