I often get questions like, ” What app do you use for IG stories?” ” What Camera you use?”. This page answers all your questions.
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Blogging Platform:
I currently use WordPress. I started my blog on Google Blogger but switched to WordPress to gain more control of my site. Learn more about the different blogger platforms such as Blogger, WordPress, Squarespace here.
Hosting:
I’ve hosted my site with Host Gator for over 4 years and I haven’t had any issues. They have amazing customer service. Last year, my site was hacked and I almost lost it. I called them as soon as I could and they helped me identify the issue. I pay $16/ month to host bellarosablog, but there are cheaper packages.
Domain:
I purchased my domain from Godaddy when I first started my blog for about $.99. I would recommend buying your domain with the same company you host with. It’s less work to transfer the domain.
Blog Template / Theme:
I currently use Pigdig “Aruba Nights” theme. Before buying this theme, I would change my theme almost every month. I got this theme 3 years ago for $59 and I will never go back. If you are just starting, I recommend starting with a more affordable theme. You can find really cheap themes on Etsy like this one for just $15.
Cameras & Lightning :
** For DSLR camera, I highly recommend buying the body of the camera only and getting a starter lens like the 50mm. Most kit lenses that come with the camera are not that great.
Canon R6 – This is the camera I use currently for all my content and photography clients. It’s a professional Full-frame DSLR.
Canon Rebel t3i- This camera has been discontinued, but you can get the T7i Here. The T7i has autofocus, which is important for youtube videos. I use the canon 50mm f1.8 lens, it’s the most affordable, low aperture lens you can get. Currently, I’ve been using the Sigma 30mm f 1.4 lens ( Here’s the Sony version). I use them for all my portraits and most of my youtube videos.
Sony a5100 – I used this to vlog and create quick content. This allows me to send images to my phone automatically via Wifi.
Canon G7x – I recently purchased this camera for vlogging. My Sony currently has some issues and I decided to give this camera chance.
My phone ( iPhone XR )
Neewer Ring Light: I use this ring light for all my youtube videos. It has adjustable lighting depending on how bright you’ll like the light.
Neewer 2- piece dimmable light wight barn doors: I recently purchased this light and have been using them for majority of my content.
Video Editing:
For IGTV or feed videos or any mobile editing, I use Inshot, Videoleap or LumaFusion.
For IG Stories, I use Unfold & Spark Post, canva and recently I’ve been using the Mojo app & the Over app.
I created a highlight of IGTV tutorials on how I create my stories. Check that out on my INSTAGRAM.
For Youtube videos, I use Final Cut Pro, which is only available on apple products.
Pictures:
I use Lightroom to edit. I use the preset “Cali Bloggers” from Best Lightroom Presets available on Creative Market for just $16. If you are a student Lightroom is only $9.99/month with Photoshop and a few other software included.
Other
I use this SD card reader to download pictures straight from my camera to my phone without using a computer. This is perfect for getting content from camera to social media quickly. I also use a lightning to USB 3 camera adapter for downloading videos from my Sony camera to edit on my phone.
If you have a Sony or Canon camera, each company have an app that allows you to shoot remotely, meaning you don’t need an instagram husband to take your pictures.
If you own an Apple Watch, you can use the camera app on there as a remote to take your own pictures on your iPhone.
Let me know if these tips are useful in the comments.
