What equipment do I need for video co-creation?

What is video co-creation in a corporate environment?

Video co-creation represents a collaborative approach where employees capture raw footage while professional editors finalize production. This partnership leverages the authentic knowledge and presence of team members with the technical expertise of video professionals like our team at Eddie. The model has revolutionized corporate video production by making it more accessible and efficient.
The benefits are substantial. Companies experience greater authenticity as real employees tell their stories in their own voices. Employee engagement increases as team members feel ownership of content creation. Additionally, resource efficiency improves dramatically—organizations can produce more content without hiring full video production teams or expensive equipment for every department.
This collaborative model works because it plays to everyone’s strengths: employees contribute their subject matter expertise and authentic perspectives, while professional editors ensure polished, consistent, and technically sound final products.

What basic camera equipment do employees need for video co-creation?

When establishing your video co-creation system, camera selection is a fundamental consideration. Fortunately, you don’t need cinema-grade equipment to achieve professional results. Modern smartphones often provide excellent video quality, making them ideal entry points for many organizations. Most current smartphones can shoot in 4K resolution with impressive image stabilization features.
For dedicated options, consider quality webcams like the Logitech C920 series for stationary recording, or entry-level DSLR or mirrorless cameras if budget allows. The key requirements include:

  • 1080p resolution, 30-60fps is sufficient (unpopular opinion: do not bother with 4K, very few people will watch corporate video’s on a 4k screen)
  • Some form of stabilization (optical or electronic)
  • Sufficient storage capacity for recording sessions
  • Compatibility with your company’s video standards

Remember that consistency across departments is more important than having the absolute highest specifications. A moderately-priced camera used correctly will outperform expensive equipment used improperly.

How important is audio quality in corporate video co-creation?

Audio quality is arguably more critical than video quality for maintaining viewer engagement. Viewers will tolerate visual imperfections, but poor audio creates immediate disengagement. Investment in proper audio equipment should be a top priority for any corporate video co-creation program.
Essential audio equipment includes:

  • External microphones: Lavalier (clip-on) mics like Røde’s Wireless GO work excellently for interviews and presentations, providing clear, consistent audio while remaining unobtrusive
  • USB microphones: Options like the Blue Yeti or Rode NT-USB provide excellent audio for desk recordings
  • Basic windscreens for any outdoor recording

Additionally, consider the acoustic environment. Even simple adjustments like recording in carpeted rooms, away from windows, or using sound-absorbing panels can dramatically improve audio quality. When establishing your co-creation workflow with Eddie, proper audio capture will significantly reduce editing time and improve final results.

What lighting equipment should we invest in for employee video recording?

Lighting dramatically affects video quality regardless of camera type. While professional studios use elaborate setups, corporate teams can achieve excellent results with strategic, budget-conscious investments.
For desk-based recording, consider these options:

  • Ring lights: Affordable and provide flattering, even illumination for single-person videos
  • LED panel kits: More versatile for different environments and multiple participants
  • Softboxes: Create professional-looking diffused light that minimizes harsh shadows

The fundamental three-point lighting concept (key light, fill light, and back light) can be approximated even with repurposed desk lamps and strategically positioned natural light. When recording in varied office environments, portable LED panels with adjustable color temperature prove most versatile.
Remember that consistent lighting between recording sessions maintains a professional look across your video series. Even basic lighting properly positioned will dramatically improve footage quality before it reaches Eddie’s editing team.

Do employees need any special software for video co-creation?

While Eddie handles the complex post-production work, employees benefit from basic recording software that streamlines the capture process. The good news is that sophisticated software isn’t necessary for the recording phase of co-creation.
Consider these software solutions:

  • Built-in camera apps (for smartphone recording)
  • Simple screen recording tools like Loom or OBS for desktop content
  • File transfer platforms like Cobie that integrate with Eddie’s workflow

The key compatibility requirement is the ability to export high-quality video files in formats that work seamlessly with professional editing software. Our team at Eddie provides specific recommendations based on your existing technology infrastructure to ensure smooth collaboration. The ideal software should be intuitive enough that employees can focus on content creation rather than technical operation.

What video co-creation equipment offers the best value for corporate teams?

Value in co-creation equipment comes from balancing quality, usability, and price. The most cost-effective approach typically involves investing in:

  • Quality microphones – The single most important investment for immediate quality improvement
  • Versatile lighting solutions that work across multiple environments
  • Stable mounting options (tripods or desk mounts) to ensure professional-looking footage

For organizations just beginning with video co-creation, consider whether departmental equipment hubs make more sense than individual setups. Shared, higher-quality equipment often delivers better results than numerous lower-quality individual kits.
Many companies find that Eddie’s Gadget Pack provides the perfect balance – transforming existing smartphones into professional recording kits without unnecessary complexity or expense. This approach leverages technology employees already understand while enhancing quality through targeted accessories.

Video co-creation equipment: Essential toolkit for success

The foundation of successful video co-creation combines a few key components regardless of organizational size or budget:

  • A reliable camera (smartphone, webcam, or dedicated camera)
  • Quality external microphone
  • Basic lighting solution
  • Stable mounting system
  • Simple recording software

Organizations should start with these essentials, establishing consistent standards and workflows before expanding capabilities. As your co-creation program matures with Eddie, you can strategically add specialized equipment based on actual usage patterns and specific needs.
Remember that equipment is only part of the equation – creating clear guidelines for recording, establishing efficient file transfer processes, and developing strong communication with your editing team at Eddie are equally important. The most successful co-creation partnerships balance technical capabilities with practical workflows that make collaboration enjoyable and efficient for everyone involved. If you’re interested in learning more, contact our team today.