Equipment

Recommended Basic Audiovisual Equipment List for Field Workers

Laptop

• Quality: Avoid bargain deals; invest in a durable laptop with excellent battery life.

• Performance: Most modern laptops are sufficient for audio and video editing; specialized professional models are generally unnecessary for most field workers without specialized video editing needs.

• Recommended Models:

  • Mac: MacBook Air is a popular choice due to:

    • All-day battery life.

    • Fanless design (minimizing dust/dirt issues).

    • Comparable pricing to high-quality Windows laptops.

  • Windows: Choose a major brand and a higher-end model.

Recording Equipment

In today's world, mobile phones have become highly capable and can meet most recording needs with some knowledge and good accessories. For more about this, look for resources on mobile journalism (mojo), such as from the BBC or Marc Blank-Settle.

Video:

• Use a good-quality smartphone camera (recent model) and familiarize yourself with features like AF/AE lock for focus and exposure.

• Accessories:

  • Small tripod and phone mount for steady shots.

  • External microphone (USB)

    • Recommended: Shure MV88+ Video Kit or similar (high-quality audio for videos, interviews, and general recording).

Audio:

• Basic Field Recording: Zoom H2n (affordable and beginner-friendly).

• Advanced Recording:

  • Zoom H6 or similar. Start with the basic model and upgrade based on field needs.

  • Optionally, purchase additional microphones and use the field recorder as an audio interface.

Backups

Follow the 3-2-1 Rule:

1. Three copies of data: One on your computer, one on an external drive, and one in the cloud.

2. Two storage locations: Computer and external drive.

3. One off-site copy: Cloud storage or a backup drive stored in your home country.