The Creator Starter Setup: What to Buy First and What to Skip
New creators tend to buy too much gear and set up too little system. The order matters more than the brand names. Here is the setup to build first, in the order you'll need it.
1. Record with what you have, plus one upgrade
Your phone camera is good enough to start. Audio is what makes content feel amateur, so put your first money into a microphone: a clip-on lavalier for video, or a USB mic for podcasts. Sit facing a window for lighting before you buy any lights.
If you interview guests remotely, use a tool built for it, like Riverside, which records each person locally so a weak connection doesn't ruin the recording.
2. One editing tool you'll actually open
Pick one editor and learn it well. Descript is the fastest for talking-head video and podcasts, because you edit by editing the transcript. Cutting filler words and pulling short clips takes minutes instead of hours.
3. Licensed music from day one
Using popular songs gets videos muted or claimed. A library like Epidemic Sound covers music and sound effects across your channels, so you never have to go back and fix old uploads.
4. Start the email list now, not later
This is the step most creators skip and regret. Followers belong to the platform. An email list belongs to you, and it's how you reach people when an algorithm changes. Put a signup link in every bio on your first day. See our beehiiv vs. Kit comparison to choose a platform.
5. Sell something once you have trust
When your audience starts asking you questions, you have something to sell. A course or coaching offer on Teachable, or merch through a Shopify store with print-on-demand, lets you earn without relying on brand deals.