Guides

5 Essential Tools to Get Started as a Makeup Tutorial Creator

By
Teleprompter Team
November 30, 2022
·
8
minutes
5 Essential Tools to Get Started as a Makeup Tutorial Creator

Are you a budding content creator looking to get into the makeup tutorial space, but don’t know how to start? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’re going to explore everything you need to get your tutorial content off the ground. 

Essential Tools to Start Your Makeup Video Tutorials

camera, DSLR

Camera 

Before you can make a video tutorial, you have to be able to shoot the video to begin with. That means you’re going to need a camera. There are a lot of options out there, camera for makeup tutorials but for those just getting into content creation, there are two primary options: DSLRs and your phone. 

DSLR

Digital single-lens reflex cameras, or DSLRs, are incredibly popular among all sorts of content creators. These cameras are highly accessible and easy to learn. What’s more, they bring a professional feel to the production and the final product. 

Shooting video with a DSLR will allow you to be in total control of the ISO and depth of a shoot. However, intermediate DSLRs, which we would recommend for starting out, come at a hefty price of $500+ for a quality camera. 

Smart Phone

For those looking to create makeup tutorials without breaking the bank, consider starting out using your own phone. Smartphones often include incredible-quality cameras. As such, they’re a major asset to content creation on a budget and on the go. 

Lighting

It’s hard to focus on your technique when the lighting if off. That being said, your lighting setup doesn’t need to be expensive. It just needs to work. Your goal is to use light to not only provide a clear view of how you’re applying the makeup but to draw and keep your audience’s focus. There are 2 main methods of showing the products in the best light. 

Three-Point Lighting Setup

Professional content creators often use three-point lighting with a basic soft-light kit. This approach involves, as the name suggests, three light sources. 

  • Key Light - This will be your primary and bright light. A key light is what will dictate the overall brightness, or exposure, of your video. You will place this light at a 45-degree angle to your camera.

  • Fill Light - Your key light alone will create harsh shadows which will give you depth, but will be counter-productive in a makeup tutorial. This is where the fill light comes into play. By placing this weaker light on the opposite 45-degree angle from your camera than your key light, it will fill the shadows from your key light.

  • Backlight - This light can be optional. It depends on your style. Regardless, this weakest-of-the-three light is placed behind you, the subject, to create a rim of light that pushes the subject away from the background.

Ring Light 

Alternatively, if this lighting setup is beyond your abilities or your price range, a ring light is a cheaper and effective alternative. By design, a ring light provides a uniform light from the direction of the camera that is perfect for emphasizing the subject. Plus, they typically come in the daylight color temperature range, empowering you to use natural lighting no matter where you are. This makes a ring light an ideal option when seeking the best lighting for filming makeup tutorials on a budget.

Microphone

condenser microphone

Camera? Check. Lighting? Check. Now it’s time to make sure you can be heard whether you’re using a pro mic or your phone one. 

Dynamic Microphones

These are the microphones most people are familiar with from sportscasters and public service announcements. Dynamic microphones are durable, and versatile, but are less sensitive than condenser microphones. Less sensitivity means harder recording, and more time messing with the audio levels in post. However, they are more budget-friendly.

Condensor Microphones

USB condenser microphones are a popular choice with content creators of all kinds. This is because condenser microphones offer the best high-frequency audio recording than other types of microphones. In terms of price, expect to pay anywhere between $100 to $1000 for a quality microphone.

Record from Your Phone

For those on a budget, your phone is a strong alternative for recording audio. Smartphones come with a built-in microphone that is perfect for low-budget recording.

Tripod or Other Support

Once you have your camera, you’re going to need a good tripod to support it. These come in many shapes and forms, but the principle remains the same. They provide a steady video for recording content free of shaking, swaying, and the occasional camera tumble.

The type of tripod you purchase in the end will be dependent on the type of equipment you choose. A DSLR will need a sturdy tripod proportional to its weight. There are also special mounts and tripods specifically designed to hold a smartphone and ring light together to make a budget-friendly content recording setup. 

Script and Teleprompter

What many beginner makeup tutorial creators get wrong is they try to completely wing their videos. Content creation requires careful planning and forethought. As such, a script can be essential for a makeup tutorial creator.

And to read that script, a teleprompter is the best way to go. With a teleprompter, you can stay focused and confident in your delivery as you explain the ins and outs of makeup. That means no more uhs or ums slowing down your dialogue, or worrying about what you need to say at any point in your video. It’s only a matter of planning and equipment.   

You could spend hundreds on a costly teleprompter which you would then have to learn how to use with your current setup. Alternatively, you can once again use your phone to find a cheap and effective solution. The Teleprompter app gets you all the power of a professional teleprompter with the convenience and ease of use of your iPhone with an intuitive user interface and powerful features.

Teleprompter is the best way to make your creativity shine without coming across as stiff or unfocused in your next makeup tutorial. 

Tips for Perfecting Your Makeup Filming Setup

Makeup tutorial video

How to film a makeup tutorial? So, you've got your camera, lighting, microphone, and tripod ready to roll. Now, let's go into the specifics of creating an impeccable makeup filming setup to ensure your tutorial videos stand out.

Choosing the Right Background for Your Makeup Tutorial Videos

The backdrop of your videos plays a crucial role in maintaining viewer focus on your makeup techniques. Opt for a clean, clutter-free background that complements your aesthetic. Consider neutral colors or a dedicated filming space that enhances the overall visual appeal of your makeup tutorials.

Creating Engaging Intros for Your Makeup Tutorial Videos

Hook your audience right from the start! Craft an engaging introduction for your makeup tutorial videos that reflects your style and personality. Whether it's a catchy phrase, a brief teaser, or a glimpse of the final look, captivate your viewers' attention within the first few seconds.

Utilizing Different Camera Angles in Makeup Video Tutorials

Experimenting with camera angles adds dynamism to your videos and provides a comprehensive view of your makeup application. Switch between close-ups and wider shots to highlight intricate details while showcasing the overall look. This variation keeps your audience engaged throughout the tutorial.

Mastering Lighting Techniques for Makeup Tutorial Videos

While we touched on lighting in the previous section, let's delve deeper into advanced lighting techniques. Experiment with different lighting setups to enhance the visibility of specific makeup steps. Highlight critical areas like eyeshadow blending or lipstick application, ensuring your viewers can follow every detail effortlessly.

Editing Tips to Enhance Your Makeup Tutorial Videos

Post-production is just as crucial as the filming process. Learn basic video editing skills to refine your makeup tutorial videos further. Trim unnecessary segments, enhance color correction, and add subtle transitions to create a polished final product. This step elevates the overall quality of your content.

Promoting Your Makeup Tutorial Videos Effectively

Being a tutorial creator involves not only creating excellent content but also effectively reaching your target audience. Leverage social media platforms, create engaging thumbnails, and use relevant hashtags to increase the visibility of your makeup tutorial videos. Building a strong online presence will attract more viewers and potential subscribers to your channel.

In Conclusion: Unleash Your Makeup Tutorial Creativity!

As you start on your journey into the captivating world of makeup tutorial creation, armed with the essential tools and insightful tips we've explored, remember that your uniqueness is your greatest asset. Whether you're capturing the perfect lighting with a budget-friendly ring light or crafting engaging intros to captivate your audience, each step contributes to your evolving expertise.

Take the time to experiment, refine your techniques, and find your distinctive style. Embrace the power of planning with scripts and teleprompters, ensuring a smooth and confident delivery. Your passion for makeup and dedication to sharing your skills will undoubtedly shine through.

Press record, illuminate your creativity, and let your makeup tutorials leave a lasting impression. Here's to your exciting journey in the vibrant world of makeup content creation! 

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