Best Gear for Artists on a Budget: Photo, Video, and Audio Essentials for Musicians

1. Best Budget Cameras for Musicians

A good camera instantly improves your content. These options deliver strong image quality without a huge investment.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Great for artists who want simple controls and solid low-light performance.

• Shoots clean photos and high-quality video

• Flip screen for self-recording

• Fast autofocus

• Perfect for social content and behind-the-scenes footage

Sony ZV-E10

One of the most popular cameras for musicians and creators.

• Designed specifically for video and content creators

• Interchangeable lenses

• Excellent autofocus for performance clips

• Light and compact for touring

Fujifilm X-T30 II

A little more stylized and great for promo photos.

• Beautiful color profiles

• Fast shooting for live shows

• Strong performance in photo and video modes

2. Best Budget Lenses for Music Content

You can upgrade a basic camera instantly by pairing it with the right lens.

Sony 35mm f/1.8 or Sigma 30mm f/1.4

Perfect for portraits, behind-the-scenes shots, and low-light sessions.

Canon 50mm f/1.8 (“Nifty Fifty”)

One of the best starter lenses ever made.

• Sharp

• Great in low light

• Creates depth and cinematic blur

• Costs less than a pedal

Wide Angle Options (16mm or 24mm)

Great for tight spaces, studio shots, and group photos.

3. Best Budget Audio Gear for Musicians

Whether you are recording demos, livestreaming, or posting acoustic videos, your audio quality matters just as much as your visuals.

Shure SM58

The most reliable vocal mic in the world. Still under 120 dollars.

Audio-Technica AT2020

A popular condenser mic for home vocal tracking.

• Clear sound

• Great for acoustic sessions

• Excellent for recording harmonies and BGVs

Focusrite Scarlett Solo Interface

The easiest and most dependable audio interface for beginners.

• Plug and play

• Clean preamps

• Ideal for solo artists and small setups

Rode VideoMic Go II

A major upgrade for camera audio.

• Perfect for rehearsal room videos

• Improves vlog-style content

• Works for on-the-road filming

4. Best Budget Lights for Photos and Videos

Lighting is one of the biggest factors in clean, professional content. These options are affordable and effective.

Neewer LED 660 Panels

Great for structured studio or home video setups.

Godox SL60W

Perfect for performance videos, music sessions, and interviews.

• Powerful and soft

• Great for skin tones

• Reliable for everyday use

Small RGB LED Lights

Great for music videos, behind-the-scenes content, and artistic lighting.

5. Best Budget Accessories Every Artist Should Have

These small upgrades make a big difference.

Tripod

Essential for self-recorded content, livestreams, and promo videos.

Phone Clamp Mount

For quick mobile content on rehearsal days or backstage.

SD Cards and Portable SSD

Artists create a lot of content. Fast storage keeps everything safe.

Portable Backdrops

Great for branding shoots, EPK photos, and short-form content.

6. Best Budget Options for Smartphone Content

You do not need a camera to create strong visuals. Today’s smartphones are extremely powerful.

Anamorphic Phone Lens (Moment)

Creates a cinematic video look.

Phone LED Light Panel

Improves low-light selfies and performance clips.

Handheld Gimbal Stabilizer

Great for smooth movement shots and music video content.

How Artists Can Get the Most Out of Budget Gear

Budget gear still produces professional results when used correctly. Here are a few tips:

• Shoot in natural light when possible

• Learn basic framing and composition

• Keep backgrounds clean and intentional

• Use a tripod for stable shots

• Invest in audio first if you are a musician

• Upgrade slowly as your career grows

Even small improvements create a major difference in your brand.

Need Professional Photos to Elevate Your Image?

While budget gear helps you create everyday content, nothing compares to professional photos when promoting your music. At KGP Music City, we photograph artists across Nashville and on the road.

We offer:
🎤 Live performance photography
📸 Artist branding sessions
🎞 EPK and promo photography
🛣 On-tour photo and content packages

Contact us to book:
👉 Instagram: @kgpmusiccity