STACK #256 February 2026

TECH FEATURE

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Do you want to become a content creator but aren’t sure where to start? Whether you’re into podcasting, live streaming, short-form video or music production, this guide breaks it down – from the gear you actually need to the setups that work in real life, plus simple tips to help your content stand out.

The essential tech For many creators, a smartphone is all that’s needed to start. Phone cameras are more than capable of producing high-quality video for social platforms. Where upgrades really help is audio. A small wireless clip-on microphone can dramatically improve voice clarity, especially when filming outdoors or in busy spaces. Clear sound instantly makes videos easier to watch and feel more polished. Lighting is another simple improvement. A basic LED or ring light can lift your image, particularly when filming indoors or at night. Add a small tripod, grip, or gimbal to keep your phone steady and you’ll have a setup that works at home or on the go. Once you’ve covered the basics, extra gear can expand what you create. Action cameras are great for hands-free or immersive footage, while drones open up aerial perspectives. These aren’t essential, but they offer creative flexibility as your content grows.

SHORT-FORM VIDEO

Short videos move fast – and so do the creators who succeed with them. This section explains how to create vlog-style short-form video for platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts – from phone-first setups to smart upgrades, plus practical tips to help your content look and sound its best. Words Bec Summer

Insta360 X5 8K 360 Action Camera

Influencer VLOG

What are you actually creating?

Starter Kit

Short-form videos are mobile-first, vertical clips designed for scrolling. They’re usually watched on phones and often without sound, so strong visuals, captions, and a clear message matter from the very first second. With so much content competing for attention, you only have a few seconds to hook viewers before they swipe on. Make those seconds count – the opening must be immediate, and

the idea easy to understand at a glance. Short videos are often created specifically for social platforms, rather than adapted from longer videos, and lengths of around 15–30 seconds generally perform well on TikTok and Reels. Viewers respond best to creators who feel natural on camera. Being clear, relatable, and confident usually matters more than having an expensive setup.

DJI Mic Mini (2 TX + 1 RX + Charging Case)

DJI Neo 2 4K Drone Fly More Combo

DJI Osmo Mobile 8 Gimbal

16 FEBRUARY 2026

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