Video Tech Starter Pack: Best Microphones, Lighting, and Tools for Mortgage & Real Estate Professionals

Video content is an essential tool for building trust, showcasing expertise, and growing your business – and though all you truly need to get started is your phone camera and some natural light, we can't blame you if you're looking for video tools to help boost your confidence and make filming easier.

Here is our starter pack of recommended tools that are easy to use and perfect for beginners looking to boost their confidence and video quality without breaking the bank.

Microphones

Best quality: DJI Wireless Microphone

Price: $250

Why we recommend it:
Clear audio can make or break your video. This wireless DJI Mic is easy to use and delivers exceptional sound quality while allowing you to move freely while filming. Whether you’re walking through a property or explaining financing options, this mic will ensure that your audience hears every word clearly.

Ease of use:
This mic is super easy to plug directly into your phone, and it's compact design makes it ideal for beginners. No complicated setup – simply charge, clip, and go.

Pros:

• Compatablity and Easy Set Up: We like that these microphones work with both lightning and USB-C phone ports, so you can use them no matter what type of phone you have. Plus, plug-and-play functionality is easy to use – just make sure the transmitter is plugged in to your phone all the way, or the audio won't record properly.
• Fully Wireless: The DJI mic transmits audio wirelessly to your phone, making it more mobile-friendly for quick, on-the-go setups.
• Dual Mics: It comes with two transmitters, allowing you to record audio from two different sources simultaneously, which is great for interview-style or collaborative videos.

Cons:

• High-profile microphone: The only negative for this microphone is that the mics themselves are a bit bigger and bulkier, so they aren't always the most discreet when you are clipping them to your clothes. That being said, it's a small price to pay for the quality of audio you are getting, and the ease of set up.

Top Features:

• Battery Life: Up to 15 hours of recording with the charging case, plus 5.5 hours from the transmitters and 5 hours from the receiver.
• Ease of Use: The pre-linked transmitters and receiver make setup seamless. It’s ready to go straight out of the box – just plug the transmitter into your phone like a charger, then clip the microphone to your collar and start recording.
• Compatibility: Works with PCs, smartphones, and cameras via USB-C, Lightning, or 3.5mm TRS ports.
• Magnetic Clip: Attach the mic discreetly to your outfit for flexible and professional-looking recordings.
• OLED Touchscreen: Access controls for volume, brightness, and battery levels right on the receiver.
• Storage and Range: 8GB of internal storage handles 14 hours of high-quality audio recording, while the 250m range ensures stability in any environment.

More affordable: RØDE Wireless ME Microphone

Price: $150

Why we recommend it:
The RØDE Wireless ME microphone system is a great option for content creators who want great sound in a small, easy-to-use package. Whether you're filming a video, conducting an interview, or streaming, this wireless microphone provides the freedom to move around while maintaining clear, high-quality audio.

Ease of use:
While the RØDE Wireless ME and DJI Mic are both excellent wireless microphone systems for content creators, the key difference that could affect your decision is that the RØDE transmitter requires a cord to connect to your phone (via USB-C or Lightning), making it feel slightly less "wireless" compared to the DJI system.

RØDE Wireless ME Advantages:

• Compact & Built-in Microphone: The RØDE system’s small size and built-in mic make it super easy to clip directly onto the talent, with a slightly smaller weight and profile to the microphone than the DJI mics.
• Clearer Audio with GainAssist: The GainAssist technology on the RØDE system helps maintain optimal sound quality even in dynamic situations.
• Better for Controlled Environments: If you're filming in a more controlled setting or using a camera, the RØDE system’s compatibility with both mobile devices and cameras provides extra flexibility.

Top Features:

• Ultra-Compact Design: The Wireless ME system is small and lightweight, making it incredibly portable and easy to use without sacrificing sound quality. It’s ideal for solo creators or on-the-go professionals.
• Built-in Microphones: The transmitter has a built-in mic that allows you to clip it directly onto your subject for convenient recording. You can also use it with a traditional lavalier microphone for added flexibility.
• Automatic Gain Control: RØDE mics automatically adjust the gain to ensure clear audio, even when there are sudden volume changes in your recording.
• Versatile Compatibility: The system works seamlessly with iOS and Android phones, as well as cameras and computers, making it a versatile choice for almost any content creation scenario.
• Up to 7 Hours Battery Life: It provides long-lasting battery performance (up to 7 hours), with the option for continuous use via USB-C power.

Best for beginners: Hollyland Lark M2 Wireless Microphone

Price: $119

Why we recommend it:
The Hollyland Lark M2 is incredibly small and lightweight (closer to the size of a large button or pin), making it one of the most discreet wireless microphone systems for filming. This microphone is perfect for creators who need a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing core features like range, battery life, and ease of use.

Compared to other wireless microphones like the DJI or RØDE options, the Lark M2 is particularly notable for its extended working time and strong transmission range, making it a great choice for outdoor and long-form recording sessions. Its noise cancellation is a key feature for those filming in less controlled environments, allowing for clearer, more professional audio.

Hollyland Lark M2 Advantages:

• Plug-and-Play Simplicity: Designed for ease of use and compatible with both lightning and USB-C ports, it doesn’t require complicated setup – just plug in and start recording.
• Extended Battery Life: With up to 40 hours of use via the charging case, the Lark M2 supports longer recording sessions compared to other brands that may require more frequent recharging.
• Long Transmission Range: The 1,000-foot line-of-sight range is particularly useful for creators needing more mobility, outperforming some competitors in this price range.
• Compact and Lightweight: Smaller and lighter than many alternatives, making it easy to clip onto clothing and use discreetly.

Top Features:

• Smart Noise Cancellation: Easily turn noise cancellation on or off with a single button press, ensuring clear audio even in noisy environments.   
• Mono & Stereo Modes: The camera version offers the flexibility of switching between mono and stereo recording modes, ideal for various recording scenarios.  
• Instant Pairing: No complicated setup required – the Lark M2 is pre-paired out of the box, so you can start recording immediately.

Best on a budget: MAYBESTA Wireless Lapel Microphone

Price: $30

Why we recommend it:
The MAYBESTA Wireless Microphone is a budget-friendly choice for content creators and professionals who need reliable audio on the go, but aren't sure if they're ready to commit to a more expensive set of microphones yet.

Its user-friendly design features automatic pairing and universal wireless compatibility, making it more accessible for those who want an affordable and easy-to-use option.

Compared to higher-priced options like the DJI, Lark M2, or RØDE microphones, the MAYBESTA offers a straightforward option at a fraction of the cost, ideal for those starting out or needing a quick backup mic.

However, it does have limitations in range and battery life that make it less suitable for more professional projects or setups.

MAYBESTA Wireless Microphone Advantages:

• Affordability: At under $20, the MAYBESTA is far more budget-friendly than premium options like the DJI or Rode microphones, which can range from $100 to $300.
• Simple Setup: The plug-and-play feature requires no adapters, Bluetooth, or additional apps – simply connect the receiver, and it's ready to go. 
• Omnidirectional Sound Reception: The MAYBESTA offers decent noise reduction, making it effective for general content creation in various environments, but we wouldn't expect it to be too robust when faced with drastic volume changes or noisy environments.

This microphone has a few notable disadvantages compared to higher-end options like the DJI, Lark M2, and RØDE microphones. Its 50-foot maximum range is significantly shorter than alternatives like the Lark M2, which offers an impressive 1,000-foot range for more flexible recording.

Additionally, the MAYBESTA’s 4.5-hour battery life falls short of more advanced models – like the Lark M2, which can last up to 40 hours – which makes it less ideal for longer recording sessions or professional use.

Another limitation to note is compatibility; the MAYBESTA is restricted to iPhones and iPads with a Lightning port, and does not support the latest USB-C devices, such as the iPhone 15 or newer iPads.

This makes it less versatile than the other wireless microphones on this list that accommodate a broader range of devices and ports.

Top Features:

• Automatic Pairing: No need for adapters or Bluetooth – just plug in the receiver, and it's ready.
• Omnidirectional Sound Reception: Captures audio from all directions and reduces background noise for clearer sound.
• Wireless Convenience: The 50-foot range allows for more flexibility compared to traditional wired options.
• Rechargeable: Quick 2-hour charge time offers up to 4.5 hours of recording.
• Lightweight and Portable: Compact design makes it easy to clip on for vlogging or podcasting.

UBeesize Magnetic Tripod

Price: $50

Why we recommend it:
For real estate agents and mortgage professionals, a sturdy and flexible tripod can elevate and simplify video content creation.

The UBeesize 62" tripod is lightweight, portable, and easily adjustable, making it perfect for on-the-go filming, whether you're shooting listing videos or creating engaging content for social media.

Ease of use:
The lightweight and adjustable design make it a breeze to set up, even if you’re not tech-savvy. Simply snap your phone to the magnetic holder, position the tripod, and start recording.

Top Features:

• MagSafe Compatibility: For iPhones 12 series and newer, the built-in magnetic adhesion makes setup a breeze. (Or if you have a MagSafe phone case for older models, that should work too.) Simply snap your phone into place and go!
• Extendable & Compact: It extends to 6 ft for optimal height when filming, and collapses to just 14 inches so you can easily toss it into your bag and take it with you on the go.
• Wireless Remote: No need to call for a friend or rely on the self-timer – the built-in Bluetooth remote works up to 33 feet, letting you snap photos or start videos hands-free.
• 360° Rotation: Capture your best angles with 180° neck rotation and 360° head rotation to film in virtually any direction.
• Perfect for All Phones: Whether you’re using an iPhone 15, iPhone 13, or an Android phone, this tripod is designed to work with MagSafe devices or non-magnetic phones using a silicone clip for a secure fit.

Lighting Kits

Best quality: Softbox Lighting Kit

Price: $50

What you get:

• One 19.7"X27.5" Studio Softbox
• One 8 ft tall light stand
• 45-watt bulb containing 140 LED beads
• Remote control for adjusting light and color temperature
• Travel case
  

Why we recommend it:
Good lighting can elevate the quality of your videos instantly. This affordable lighting kit creates soft, even lighting that flatters your features and eliminates harsh shadows, making your content look professional.

Ease of use:
It’s beginner-friendly with quick assembly and adjustable angles to get the perfect shot. The remote makes it easy to switch between warm and cool lighting, or to dim the light as needed, making it ideal for home offices or open houses with low natural light.

Softbox Lighting Kit Advantages:

The Softbox Lighting Kit is a great option for creators who need powerful and diffused lighting for studio or portrait photography. Compared to smaller LED kits, the softbox provides a higher power output, making it perfect for larger spaces or controlled studio environments. It also creates soft, even lighting that minimizes harsh shadows, making it ideal for high-quality video shoots and product photography.

For those looking to elevate their production quality, the Softbox kit is an excellent choice for studio-ready equipment for those willing to invest in better lighting for their setups.

However, while softboxes offer superior light diffusion and control, their size and setup time might be less convenient for creators who need a quick, mobile setup – especially in smaller spaces like offices or home studios.

While the Softbox offers superior light diffusion, the size and setup requirements may not be practical for those with limited storage space or those who need a more flexible, on-the-go lighting solution.

Top Features:

• Updated LED Bulbs: The MOUNTDOG Softbox uses 140 LED bulbs that are more energy-efficient than traditional bulbs, helping you get consistent lighting without breaking the bank.
• Adjustable Color Temperature: With the ability to switch between white, warm, and cold light (2800K–5700K), this kit offers versatile lighting options perfect for different environments and moods.
• Easy Adjustability: The softbox and stand are fully adjustable (up to 80 inches tall) so you can customize your lighting to get the perfect shot every time.
• Remote Control: Change the lighting settings from anywhere within 7-8 meters, allowing you to adjust on the fly without having to move the equipment.
• Simple Setup: No complicated installation needed! This kit can be assembled in under 5 minutes, so you can start shooting right away.

Most versatile: NiceVeedi LED Video Light Kit

Price: $55

What you get:

• 2 LED studio light panels with cables
• 2 adjustable tripod stands
• 2 USB-C adapters
• Storage bag
• User manual

Why we recommend it:
The NiceVeedi 2-Pack LED Video Light Kit is an affordable and reliable option for content creators looking to enhance their video quality. Whether you're streaming, recording YouTube videos, or shooting vlogs, these compactly-designed lights provide the versatility you need to create professional-quality content at home or on the go.

Ease of use:
It’s beginner-friendly with quick assembly and adjustable angles to get the perfect shot. The remote makes it easy to switch between warm and cool lighting, or to dim the light as needed, making it ideal for home offices or open houses with low natural light.

NiceVeedi Kit Advantages:

The NiceVeedi LED Kit stands out for its affordable price and compact design that makes it ideal for creators working from home or on the go. When compared to other video light kits in the same price range, this one offers a good balance of adjustability (color temp and brightness), portability, and power convenience with USB charging.

For creators who don’t need a massive lighting setup but want something effective and easy to use, the NiceVeedi kit is a great choice. It may not offer the power and size of more expensive kits, but for beginners and casual content creators, it's more than enough to get professional-looking results.

Top Features:

• Multiple Color Temperatures & Adjustable Brightness: With three color temperature settings and brightness adjustment, you can easily create the perfect lighting atmosphere for any shooting condition.

• Accurate Color Rendering: NiceVeedi lights offer accurate color reproduction, which makes them perfect for product photography, filming vlogs, or any situation where true-to-life colors are important.

• USB-Powered & Convenient Charging: You can power them via a phone, laptop, or wall charger without needing extra batteries or a separate charger. This is particularly useful for creators who want to minimize setup time and maximize convenience.

• Adjustable Tripod for Flexibility: Each light comes with a height-adjustable tripod, ensuring you can position your lights at the perfect height and angle for your shot.

• Compact & Portable Design: These lights are designed to be both lightweight and easy to store, and the included storage bag makes it easy to take your lighting kit with you for mobile shoots or on-location filming.

So, there you have it – our top picks for essential video tools!

From capturing crystal-clear audio with our recommended microphones to stabilizing your shots with a reliable tripod, these tools can significantly elevate the quality of your videos.

But remember, the right equipment simply empowers you to focus on what matters most: creating compelling content.

Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned pro, investing in quality gear is all about enhancing your video quality so you feel more confident on camera. We hope these options help you find the perfect tools for boosting your confidence and bringing your creative vision to life.

Happy filming!