Fortunately, in 2024, there are so many options available when it comes to the best accessories & cameras for content creators.

In this post, I’ll be recommending the best camera lenses, tripods, gimbals & more so you can put together your ultimate content creator equipment checklist.

As a creator with over 1 million followers (@kelseyinlondon), people are often surprised when I say: the best camera you can use is the camera you already own. For a lot of content creators, the best camera is in your pocket… your smartphone.

But for those looking to take their photography and videos to the next level, you should consider upgrading to a DSLR or mirrorless camera. While you can take amazing photos with an iPhone 15 Pro Max, you can never compare to the quality of a professional camera.

Personally, I love using both my iPhone and camera, as well as an array of gadgets to help me capture the best content possible. Whether that’s filming sunrise from a mountain peak or photographing a global campaign for a major tech brand. 

Keep scrolling to discover my top content creator equipment recommendations.

Best Content Creator Equipment Checklist

My Top Pick: Best Camera for Content Creation

I’ve used Canon cameras & lenses for over 15 years. I’m incredibly brand loyal and have never been disappointed with their products.

I had previously used the Canon EOS 6D MK II for over 5 years which was great for a first full-frame DSLR purchase. This was the camera responsible for most of the photos you would have previously seen on my Instagram and blog.

However, after 5 years I was itching for an upgrade and took the plunge (and a small bank loan) and purchased the Canon EOS R5 and boy was she worth every single penny!

With a remarkable 45-megapixel full-frame sensor, this beauty delivers stunningly detailed and vibrant images.

I noticed a huge difference to my previous Canon, my images were instantly march sharper and full of life – no filters needed.

The R5 also boasts 8K video recording capabilities, making it an excellent choice for both photographers and videographers.

If you’re new to photography, I would recommend practicing the basics with one of these content creator ameras under £500. However if you’re experienced and looking for that upgrade, you will not regret buying the Canon R5

Best Cameras for Content Creators Under £500​

If you’re on a budget and looking for a more affordable upgrade from your smartphone without spending thousands of pounds, here are some amazing cameras under £500 to get you started. These cameras are great for vlogging too.

Best Cameras Lenses & Filters for Content Creators

Canon 50mm f/1.4 Lens​

I bloody LOVE this 50mm lens – not only is it affordable and great value for money, it produces truly beautiful photographs. If you’ve always wanted to create photos with depth and that blurry background, aka “bokeh”, then this lens is going to be your best friend. I use it mostly for food/drink, accessory (watches/jewellery/handbags) & detail shots. 

Note: with a 50mm lens, the focal length is “fixed” meaning you can’t zoom in or out, you simply have to take a step back or forward to get closer or further from a subject. The longer your focal length, the shallower the depth of field (more background blur).

Compare the two images below. In the image where the flowers are in focus, you’ll notice the background is blurred as well as light reflections appearing as circles/hexagons/octagons, this is referred to as “bokeh”. In the other image, the coffee cup is in focus and the foreground (flowers at the front) are out of focus/blurred. This adds depth and interest to an image.

Canon 16–35mm f/2.8 Lens​

This is my go-to lens for just about everything. The Canon EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM Lens has an ultra-wide angle lens which is perfect for fitting as much detail as possible within a frame.

I love using this lens for travel photography, interior/hotel shots or group shots.

I previously owned the f/4 version of this lens which is almost half the price of my current one.

However, I have found the f2.8 gives that extra bit of light exposure which is super helpful when shooting in the evening or inside rooms with low light.

Below are some examples of photos I’ve taken with this lens. Even in small spaces (like my tiny London flat), with this wide angle lens you’re able to capture as much of the room as possible.

It’s also great for travel shots, capturing the full landscape/view.

Polarising Lens Filter​

A polarising lens filter is essential for travel photography. With this lens, you won’t have to worry about the sky being overexposed or appearing white in photos. It also helps create deeper/richer colours, better contrast and eliminates sun flares/reflections. They come in multiple sizes to fit the lenses you own.

Best Phone Gimbal Stabiliser​

I always get asked how my Reels/TikToks look so smooth. This is my secret. Attach your iPhone/Android to THIS gimbal and you’ll be able to effortlessly film those smooth & silky movements.

This phone gimbal has an inbuilt tripod and selfie stick, making it perfect for travel. We love a multipurpose gadget! This is a must-have if you’re serious about content creation.

Click here to learn more about how I film & edit my Reels/TikToks.

Best Drone for Content Creators: DJI Mini 3 Pro

In 2022 I finally bit the bullet and ordered a drone in order to take my travel photography & video content creation to the next level and I wish I invested in one a lot sooner!

Drones seem intimidating, however this DJI Mini 3 Pro drone is so easy to use, after watching a quick tutorial on Youtube I was flying my drone in no time.

It’s lightweight, films horizontally and vertically (perfect for Instagram Reels/TikTok videos) and captures everything in 4k/60fps (the best setting for high-quality content).

If you’re looking at getting this drone, I highly recommend purchasing the DJI Mini 3 Pro Fly More Kit.

This kit comes with an additional 2 batteries (each battery typically lasts 34 minutes so you’ll want as many on hand when you’re on location) as well as a shoulder carry bag, charging hub and spare propellers (essential).

Best tripod for DSLR Camera

This is my ride-or-die tripod. I’ve had this tripod for 5 years and it’s still going strong. I can mount both my iPhone and Canon camera to this tripod.

Most iPhone tripods won’t be able to hold the weight of a full-frame camera, so it’s important to invest in a solid tripod so you don’t risk damaging your camera.

My favourite feature of this tripod? You can film horizontally from a “bird’s eye view” with an extendable arm that can rotate 360°. This is perfect for photographing flatlays and recipe videos etc from above (see photo example below)

Best Tripods For Phones under £20

Sometimes I really can’t be arsed lugging my heavy camera round, so I end up filming a lot of my content on my iPhone. In these instances, I prefer using a lightweight phone tripod.

A gorilla tripod is extremely handy as you can wrap the “legs” around poles/signs/door frames, perfect for travel as it folds down small.

Here are my recommendations for Smartphone tripods under £20.

Best Travel Photography Backpack

The WANDRD photography backpack is the G.O.A.T. This is one of the best travel photography backpacks on the market, The design is beautiful, functional AND comfortable.

There is a quick-access camera pocket (my favourite feature) as well as pockets for your lenses, SD cards, spare batteries, laptop, water bottle and tripod. It’s available in a few different colours and a timeless, minimal design.

I always bring this backpack on board flights for peace of mind that my camera equipment + laptop won’t ever go missing in transit. I have the 21L size which is perfect for carrying all my camera equipment along with a spare change of clothes/shoes.

Photo Editing Filters​

Having the right gear & right eye for photography is only 50% of the job. The true magic happens in post-production. You can take a photo from zero to hero using Adobe Lightroom to edit on your mobile or computer.

I’ve previously partnered with Adobe and made some editing tutorials here.

I’ve also created a range of Lightroom Presets that you can use to transform your images in just one simple click. Think of them as Instagram filters – but MUCH better! You can also use my presets to edit your videos. Use code ‘BLOG’ for a cheeky 10% off.