Studio + Casey Neistat: Filmmaking & Storytelling — Materials
Materials for Casey Neistat’s Class
Have questions about materials? Feel free to chat with us, or email us at support@studio.com.
Casey walks through the equipment you’ll need for class, from essentials like editing software to his favorite gear.
The Essentials

The stuff you absolutely need to shoot and edit your movies.

Smartphone

If you have a smartphone that can record video and transfer it for editing, you already have all the filming gear you’ll need.

Smartphone with video capability (1080p or higher recommended)
If you don’t have a smartphone with these capabilities, consider the cameras below.
Editing Software

The specific software you use is a matter of personal preference. Whichever one you choose, make sure it is compatible with your computer’s operating system.

Adobe Premiere Pro
Casey’s Favorite, Adobe provides a 7-day free trial. Mac and Windows compatible.
Final Cut Pro
Only available on Mac.
iMovie
A free option, great for beginners. Pre-installed on every Mac.
HitFilm Express
A free option, great for beginners. Mac and Windows compatible.
The Nice-To-Haves

Additional equipment to level up your game.

External Hard Drive

We strongly recommend using an external hard drive to save your creations from this class and beyond.

Samsung T7 Portable SSD
Casey’s Favorite
LaCie Rugged
Budget Option
Tripod

A portable tripod will steady your camera and help you compose interesting shots.

Joby GorillaPod 3K
Casey’s Favorite, flexible tripod.
MeFOTO RoadTrip Travel Tripod Kit
Casey’s Favorite, stationary tripod.
Joby GripTight ONE GP Magnetic Impulse
Budget Option, for smartphones
UBeesize Tripod S, Premium Flexible Phone Tripod
Budget Option, for smartphones
Point and Shoot Cameras

A point and shoot camera is great if you’re looking for a highly portable camera that shoots high quality video.

Sony ZV-1
Casey’s Favorite
Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70
Budget Option with 4K capability
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Budget Option with 1080p capability
Nikon COOLPIX B500 16.0-Megapixel
Budget Option with 1080p capability
Advanced Gear

More sophisticated gear for even higher quality production.

DSLR & Mirrorless Cameras

A DSLR or mirrorless camera will allow you to film in higher quality. Many camera stores offer refurbished or older versions of the options below for lower prices. If you choose to buy a used camera, make sure it records at least 1080p, is in good condition, and is sold by a verified seller.

Sony a7S III
Casey’s Favorite, mirrorless camera with 4K capability
Fujifilm X-T4
High End Option with 4K capability
Canon EOS Rebel T7
Budget Option with 1080p capability
Microphone

Directional microphones allow you to record better sound with less background noise. Make sure they are compatible with your smartphone or camera before buying.

RØDE VideoMic Pro+
Casey’s Favorite
RØDE VideoMic GO On-Camera Shotgun Microphone
Budget Option
Movo VXR10 Universal Video Microphone
Budget Option for smartphones
Other Cameras

These specialty cameras are not essential for the class, but can capture some unique footage for those interested in experimenting more with their cinematography.

GoPro HERO9 Black
Casey’s Favorite
DJI Mini 2
Casey’s Favorite
Lenses

A fixed lens has one focal length (e.g. 24mm), while a zoom lens can have a range (e.g. 12-24mm). Choose what works for your style! Any zoom or fixed lens that matches your camera’s brand will work. Check your camera model to confirm your lens will fit.

Sony FE 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master E-Mount
Casey’s favorite ultra-wide angle zoom lens. Only Sony compatible.
Wide Angle (< 35mm) Lenses
Casey likes to work with ultra-wide and wide angle zoom lenses, but fixed lenses work too.
Standard (35-70mm) Lenses
Many camera packages come with a standard zoom lens. You can also buy a standard fixed or zoom lens separately.