Tailor your online school’s look, feel, and functionality to match your unique brand and teaching style.
MY STUDIO
The day to day stuff i use to create, grow and maintain my online platformSs
LEARN YOUR WAY AROUND THEN START TO
MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Sharing my tech stack is all about control and flexibility. Just like I take care of my own home for daily needs and only call the builder for major renovations, I enjoy handling my online school's everyday updates and design. This allows me to personalize the space to perfectly suit my teaching style and my students' needs. I can quickly add new content, tweak layouts, or experiment with features – all without relying on external schedules or hefty fees. Of course, there are times I'll bring in the specialists for complex overhauls, but having this foundation of independence means my virtual "house" is always welcoming and reflects my unique approach.
Benefits of maintaining control of your platform
Customization
Affordability
Flexibility
Responsiveness
Authenticity
HARDWARE
The Computer
Your computer's power is crucial for smooth video editing and streaming. Older or underpowered devices will limit your creativity. Here's what to prioritize when buying a new computer:
Processor Power:
Mac: Prioritize the new M1 processor over older Intel chips. Aim for a MacBook Pro or Mac Mini for best performance.
PC: Focus on the number of cores and the processor's speed (frequency).
RAM is King: Invest in the most RAM you can afford. It's a major factor in a smooth editing experience.
Upgrading Existing Machines: If you can't buy new, check if you can add RAM to your current computer.
I use an Apple MacBook Pro with Apple M1 Chip (16 inch, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) Space Gray.
Super happy with it. Easy to move around, powerful and of course essential for using Ecamm which I talk about in the software section.
I use a DESKTOP-2PC73LM Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-9600K CPU @ 3.70GHz 3.70 GHz, 32 GB 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor and a Samsung LC49RG90SSPXXU 49" Curved LED Monitor - Dual
The Desktop was a present from my family and build by one of my sons as an encouragement for my willingness to go tech but if I'll have to buy something with an Windows operating system i'll go for a high performance laptop. Something easy to carry around.
I use OBS when recording it works great and is free ! I talk more about it in the software section.
The Camera
Don't let budget hold you back. Start with the best camera you currently have – even a phone can produce decent videos with good lighting and techniques. As your audience grows, reinvest some of your earnings into a camera upgrade. This way, your video quality keeps pace with your success!
But remember a good camera makes a difference! While it's tempting to start with your phone or webcam, investing in a dedicated camera will noticeably improve your video quality. This means sharper images, better colors, and smoother handling of low-light situations. A great camera attracts viewers and makes your content look more professional. Plus you don't get into panic when your phone starts vibrating or ringing at the wrong time !
Your smartphone is a powerful camera! If you've got a modern smartphone, its camera is likely great for starting your video journey. Here's how to get the most out of it:
- Flight Mode: Prevent interruptions by putting your phone in flight mode while recording.
- Boost Quality with Apps: Explore dedicated video recording apps for more control and features than your phone's default camera. (I'll discuss my favorites in the software section!)
- My Experience: I used an iPhone for my early videos and it worked well. I'd wouldn't use it anymore for longer recordings, but I use it sometimes for quick, casual clips that I edit in later (like the oven while baking for example)
I use an Iphone 12 pro max but the newest models can do an even better job.
Webcams can be an affordable way to begin recording, especially if you're focused on close-up videos with minimal movement. Their built-in microphones are decent for basic audio. However, don't expect the same image quality as a dedicated camera, and you might find them limiting if you need flexibility in framing your shots.
I tried Logitec C920 and also Avermedia but I would't say they are good for anything else then conferencing
For the best video results, a dedicated camera is the way to go. While there are many excellent options, I'm personally a big fan of Sony cameras. I use the Sony ZV1F and the Sony Alpha ZVE10L, and they consistently deliver fantastic image quality.
Sony ZV1F is for vlogging and has the benefit that you don't need to purchase additional lenses.
For the Sony aplha ZVE10L i use a Sony lense and Viltox
I describe each piece of equipment and explain all the settings and how it works during the MASTER YOUR TECH programme.
The Microphone
Microphones Demystified: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job
Not all microphones are created equal! Let's break down the three main types and when to use each:
Dynamic Microphones: The workhorses. They handle loud sounds well, making them perfect for live vocals, drums, and noisy environments.
Condenser Microphones: Capture detail and nuance. Ideal for studio vocals, acoustic instruments, and any sound where clarity is key.
Ribbon Microphones: Offer a warm, vintage tone. Excellent for taming harsh treble frequencies on sources like guitar amps or brass instruments.
Standing vs. Wireless: Standing mics are great for studios or fixed setups. Wireless mics give you freedom of movement, perfect for presentations or dynamic performances.
For recording the audio when demonstrating I use the BOYA wireless lavaliere microphone
The Lightening
Lighting 101: Illuminate Your Videos
Great lighting is essential for high-quality video. While a room flooded with natural light is ideal (but often tricky to find!), the right lighting kit can transform any space. Here's what you need to know:
- Natural Light's the Best: If you can find a consistently bright room, you might not need extra lights!
- Presentation/Interview Lights: Look for soft, broad light sources that evenly illuminate your face. Ring lights and LED panels are popular choices.
- Hands-On Demos: You'll need brighter, focused lights to clearly show details. Small LED spotlights or task lighting can work wonders.
ADD-ONS
Tools for Polished Presentations
Just like a baker invests in specialized tools, savvy course creators know that the right add-ons can take their video quality and production to the next level. While it's wise to start with the basics, reinvesting some of your earnings into these upgrades can make a huge difference. Think of them like your fancy cake decorating kit – some might sit unused, while others become essential for creating those showstopper results.
Here are a few popular add-ons:
- Teleprompters: Smooth deliveries using apps like Parrot.
- Capture Cards: Like Elgato Cam Link, to connect cameras to your computer.
- Stream Decks: Simplify control (now even with mobile apps!).
- Stands and Tripods: Ensure stable, flexible camera angles.
- Cables: The right connections make everything work!
I use them all the time and I share all you should know about them in my course MASTER YOUR TECH
SOFTWARE
Website /Platform Stuff
- Hosting
- Architecting
- Building
- Adding functionality
CMR
Video Soft
Audio soft
Safety Stuff
Marketing Soft
Other Stuff
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