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Why Your Camera Choice Matters in Podcasting

Video podcasts are on the rise, and for good reason. A high-quality video setup enhances audience engagement, boosts your brand’s professionalism, and opens doors to monetization. Choosing the right camera and lens will help create a polished, professional look that captures attention. In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about cameras, lenses, and setups for podcasting success.

Podcasting Camera Types

Click here for my favorite all-around podcast camera

When selecting a camera for your podcast, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of each type. Your ideal choice depends on your podcasting style, content goals, and budget.

Webcams: Webcams are a go-to choice for beginners and anyone looking for a straightforward, reliable way to capture video. Many modern options offer impressive image quality, and some models include advanced features like motorized framing and face tracking. These tools can follow your movement or stay locked in place, depending on your setup and preference—perfect for podcasters who like to move around or want a dynamic, hands-free camera experience.

We have a few to look at in the table below. Be sure to check out the Elgato + the Osbot, which has awesome video quality for a “webcam” + has motor control + face tracking you can turn on and off so it will either follow you, or you can adjust it during a recording.

If you go the route of using a webcam to record your podcast, I highly recommend you look into a capture card for your computer. Capture card devices offload the work from the computer, and drastically increase the quality of the recording allowing you to capture crystal clear video. I highly recommend checking the Elgato brand out, they make some of the best hardware in the game. The HD60X is a great start.

• Pros: Affordable, easy to use, plug-and-play, minimal setup.
• Cons: Limited image quality, minimal control over settings, fixed lenses.
• Ideal for: Beginners, casual podcasters, streamers.

DSLR Cameras DSLRs provide flexibility and professional image quality, suitable for podcasters aiming for a polished look.

DSLRs crush webcams for podcasting because they offer larger sensors, superior low-light performance, and interchangeable lenses, giving you that crisp, cinematic look webcams simply can’t match. With pro-level autofocus, depth-of-field control, and external mic support, DSLRs provide the flexibility and quality needed to make your podcast stand out—whether you’re streaming live or recording in a studio setup.

The Canon 5D Mark IV is one of the best cameras on the market with 4K video — however DSLRs are known to have recording limits of about 30 minutes. 

• Pros: Superior image quality, interchangeable lenses, depth-of-field control, versatility.
• Cons: Larger size, more expensive, additional equipment (like capture cards) needed for streaming, limited onboard recording.
• Ideal for: Professional-quality podcasts, interviews, detailed video.

Mirrorless Cameras Mirrorless cameras combine DSLR image quality with a smaller form factor, providing versatility and ease of use.

Mirrorless cameras can also deliver cinematic 4K video, razor-sharp autofocus, and pro-level low-light performance without the bulk of DSLRs. With silent operation, advanced eye-tracking, and direct USB streaming, they offer the perfect blend of portability and power, making them the go-to choice for podcasters who want a professional, high-quality look without the hassle.

The Canon EOS R5 Mark ii delivers cinematic 4K and 8K video, razor-sharp autofocus, and pro-level image quality that make podcast recordings look like a high-budget production.

• Pros: Excellent image quality, compact size, interchangeable lenses, good autofocus.
• Cons: Higher initial cost, battery life may vary, can require additional accessories for extended recording.
• Ideal for: Intermediate to advanced podcasters, content creators seeking high-quality visuals.

Action Cameras Action cameras are designed for durability and capturing dynamic or unconventional shots.

I would look into the latest GoPro offerings, the DJI Osmo, and the Insta360 — however please know that the quality of the video in a studio setting is generally not as good as a decent webcam.

• Pros: Compact, durable, versatile, great for dynamic and wide-angle shots.
• Cons: Limited zoom capability, generally not ideal for standard podcast formats.
• Ideal for: Outdoor podcasts, adventure-based or action-driven content.

Smartphone Cameras Smartphones today offer high-quality cameras suitable for beginners or budget-conscious podcasters.

Personal Story: I use an iPhone 15 Pro for almost everything I shoot because it is incredibly versatile, inexpensive when compared to DSLR options, and overall packs a huge punch with ability to record locally to a computer using OBS. While this setup isn’t for everyone, it is definitely a good option for most.

I highly suggest you watch the video below which talks about why they may be more than what you need to record or stream your podcast. Limitations are generally a flatter look, lighting requirements, and the battery draining faster than it can charge. While that is true when compared to much more expensive options; the iPhone has good depth of field, and overall has great color and clarity.

• Pros: Readily available, high-quality video recording, versatile and mobile.
• Cons: Limited control, fixed lenses, may require additional equipment for stability and quality.
• Ideal for: Budget-conscious podcasters and beginners testing video podcasts.

Find the Best Camera for Your Podcast

Click here for my favorite all-around podcast camera

Camera Type	Model	Resolution	Best For	Notes
Webcam	Logitech C920x HD Pro	1080p	Beginners, live-streaming	Affordable, plug-and-play simplicity.
	Elgato Facecam	1080p at 60fps	Streamers, high-quality streams	Low latency, great for streaming.
	Razer Kiyo Pro	1080p at 60fps	Low-light environments	Built-in light adjustment.
	Logitech StreamCam	1080p at 60fps	Content creators, portrait video	Portrait mode support for vertical content.
DSLR	Canon EOS M50 Mark II	4K (cropped)	Professional-quality podcasts	Great autofocus and flip-out screen.
	Nikon D5600	1080p at 60fps	Sharper videos, flexibility	Excellent lens compatibility.
	Canon EOS Rebel T7	1080p at 30fps	Affordable DSLR setup	Beginner-friendly and reliable.
	Sony Alpha a6100	4K	Compact, high-quality videos	Amazing autofocus performance.
Mirrorless	Sony ZV-E10	4K	Content creators, vlogging	Optimized for creators, interchangeable lenses.
	Panasonic Lumix GH5	4K at 60fps	Advanced users, cinematic production	Exceptional video quality.
	Sony Alpha a6400	4K	Portable and versatile	Reliable, sharp results.
	Fujifilm X-T4	4K at 60fps	Color-rich, smooth footage	In-body stabilization is a bonus.
Action Camera	GoPro Hero 13 Black	5.3K at 60fps	Dynamic, wide-angle shots	Durable and versatile.
	DJI Osmo Action 3	4K at 60fps	Compact and affordable	Great stabilization.
Camcorder	Sony FDR-AX53	4K	Long recording sessions	Ideal for extended podcasts.
	Canon Vixia HF G50	4K	Long sessions with simple setup	Easy to use for beginners.
Smartphone	iPhone Pro Max	4K at 60fps	Budget-friendly setups	Flagship phone with cinematic mode.
	Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra	8K at 30fps	High-end detail and versatility	Outstanding video quality.

Best Lenses That Make Your Podcast Shine

When setting up your podcasting studio for video recordings, the lens you select can dramatically affect your visual quality, aesthetics, and viewer engagement. Here’s a clear breakdown of the types of lenses to consider, their advantages and disadvantages, and practical recommendations tailored specifically for podcasting studios.

Types of Lenses to Consider:

1. Prime Lenses

Prime lenses have a fixed focal length (e.g., 35mm, 50mm, 85mm) and typically offer superior image quality and wider apertures (f/1.8, f/1.4, or f/1.2).

Pros:

• Excellent image sharpness and clarity.
• Great in low-light conditions due to wide apertures.
• Beautiful background blur (bokeh) helps focus viewers on the subject.

Cons:

• Limited flexibility; requires physical repositioning of the camera to change framing.

Recommended Primes for Podcast Studios:

• Sony FE 50mm f/1.8: Versatile, affordable, and great for portrait-style framing.
• Canon RF 85mm f/2 Macro: Ideal for tighter headshots with stunning clarity.

2. Zoom Lenses

Zoom lenses allow varying focal lengths within one lens (e.g., 24-70mm, 70-200mm), providing versatility in framing without moving the camera.

Pros:

• Highly versatile; quickly switch framing between wide, medium, and close-up shots.
• Ideal for multi-camera setups or dynamic podcast formats.

Cons:

• Slightly less sharp than prime lenses.
• Usually heavier and more expensive.

Recommended Zooms for Podcast Studios:

• Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN: Excellent image quality, highly versatile for various studio setups.
• Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8: Cost-effective, sharp optics, and great value for money.

3. Wide-Angle Lenses

Wide-angle lenses (e.g., 16mm, 24mm) capture broader scenes and are excellent for showing off a podcast studio space or accommodating multiple hosts.

Pros:

• Great for group podcasts or studio tours.
• Provides engaging perspectives and dynamic visuals.

Cons:

• Potential distortion if subjects are too close to the camera.
• Less effective for close-up, intimate visuals.

Recommended Wide-Angles for Podcast Studios:

• Sony FE 20mm f/1.8 G: Outstanding optical quality with minimal distortion.
• Canon RF 16mm f/2.8: Compact and affordable; great for small spaces.

Choosing the Right Lens for Your Needs:

• Portrait-Focused Podcasts: Prime lenses like the 50mm or 85mm give superior sharpness and beautiful backgrounds, ideal for single-host or interview formats.
• Dynamic, Multi-Angle Podcasts: Zoom lenses such as 24-70mm offer framing flexibility, essential for quickly adjusting compositions.
• Group or Panel Podcasts: Wide-angle lenses effectively capture everyone clearly and give viewers a sense of your studio environment.

Tips for Podcast Studio Lens Setup:

• Consider the space available: smaller rooms might benefit from wider lenses (20-35mm).
• Prioritize aperture: lenses with f/2.8 or wider ensure excellent low-light performance and professional background blur.
• Balance cost and quality: Invest in a high-quality prime or zoom lens for your primary camera, supplementing with affordable lenses for secondary angles.

Lens Type	Focal Length (Aperture)	Best For	Notes
Prime	35mm (f/1.8 or f/1.4)	Medium-wide shots, small spaces	Natural perspective, versatile.
	50mm (f/1.8 or f/1.4)	Head-and-shoulder shots	Classic framing, beautiful depth of field.
	85mm (f/1.8)	Close-ups with blurred backgrounds	Ideal for interviews and isolation shots.
Wide-Angle	24mm (f/2.8)	Group shots, tight spaces	Wider framing without distortion.
	18mm (f/2.8)	Multi-host setups in small rooms	Ultra-wide view, perfect for tight spaces.
Zoom	24-70mm (f/2.8)	Versatile for varied setups	Covers wide, mid, and close framing.
	18-55mm (f/3.5-5.6)	Budget-friendly multi-use lens	Affordable and flexible.
	70-200mm (f/2.8)	High-quality close-ups in larger spaces	Stunning compression and sharpness.
Macro/Specialty	100mm Macro (f/2.8)	Close-ups of products or details	Extremely sharp for close-up shots.
	11-16mm (f/2.8)	Ultra-wide, creative shots	Captures the entire setup.

Click for Lens Options at a Glance

How to Set Up Multiple Cameras for Your Podcast

Adding multiple camera angles can elevate your podcast by making it more dynamic and engaging. Here’s how to create a multi-camera setup:

Why Go Multi-Camera?

Switching between angles keeps your audience engaged and provides flexibility in post-production. You can highlight individual hosts, showcase reactions, or capture wide shots of the entire setup.

Essential Tools for Multi-Camera Setups

Equipment	Purpose
Cameras	Matching models ensure consistent quality.
Capture Cards	Connect cameras to your computer (e.g., Elgato Cam Link).
Video Switchers	For live switching between feeds (e.g., ATEM Mini).
Lighting	Ensures consistent exposure for all angles.
Tripods/Mounts	Keeps cameras stable at the right angles.
Audio Recorder	High-quality audio recording (e.g., Zoom H6).

Wrapping It All Up

The right camera and lens can transform your podcast into a visual experience that captivates your audience. But without great podcast lighting, you’ll be shooting in the dark! Be sure to have a good studio set up with great audio gear too. Whether you’re working with a single camera or a multi-camera setup, the key is to choose tools that match your goals and budget. With the tips and recommendations in this guide, you’re well on your way to creating a standout video podcast.

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Choosing the right remote recording platform is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a podcaster. Two of the top contenders in this space are Squadcast and Zencastr. Both platforms have earned a reputation for high-quality audio, reliability, and user-friendly interfaces. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the features, pricing, and unique strengths of both Squadcast and Zencastr to help you make an informed decision.

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An Overview of Squadcast and Zencastr

Squadcast: The High-Fidelity Recording Studio

Squadcast is known for its commitment to pristine audio and reliability. With progressive upload technology and local recording, your sessions remain secure and uncompromised—even with unstable internet connections. It’s a go-to choice for professional podcasters and media companies that demand top-tier audio.

Zencastr: The All-in-One Podcasting Platform

Zencastr has evolved into a comprehensive solution for podcasters. Beyond recording, it now offers editing, unlimited hosting, and distribution features. With AI-powered tools and an intuitive interface, Zencastr appeals to creators looking for an all-in-one workflow.

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Detailed Feature Comparison

Core Features

Both platforms focus on local recording, capturing audio and video directly on each participant’s computer. This eliminates internet-related glitches and ensures studio-quality results. Progressive uploads save data to the cloud in real-time, protecting against crashes or disconnections.

• Squadcast shines with its Descript integration, enabling text-based editing that simplifies post-production.

• Zencastr goes further by combining recording, editing, hosting, and distribution in one place—a major draw for creators who want simplicity.

Unique Features

• Squadcast: A green room for guest prep, device checks, and pre-session coordination.

• Zencastr: AI editing tools that remove filler words, long pauses, and background noise automatically.

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Pricing and Plans

Squadcast

Plans start at $20/month, covering local recording, progressive uploads, and cloud backups. Higher tiers provide more hours, advanced features, and dedicated support.

Zencastr

Plans also start at $20/month, but include unlimited hosting, AI-powered editing, and built-in distribution tools alongside high-quality recording.

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Ease of Use

Both are browser-based and accessible without software downloads.

• Squadcast: Extremely intuitive, with a minimal learning curve.

• Zencastr: Slightly more complex due to its broader feature set, but supported by thorough documentation and strong customer support.

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Video and Audio Quality

• Squadcast: Records uncompressed WAV audio and up to 4K video, meeting professional standards.

• Zencastr: Matches these specs, while adding Magic Audio, an AI feature that enhances clarity and removes background noise.

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Guest Management

• Squadcast: Supports up to 10 participants, with link-based invites and no account required for guests. The green room helps sessions start smoothly.

• Zencastr: Allows up to 12 participants, plus a producer mode for behind-the-scenes management without appearing on camera.

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Integrations

• Squadcast: Works with Descript, Adobe Audition, Hindenburg, Zapier, and Dropbox.

• Zencastr: Integrates with Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Descript, and Zapier.

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Customer Support

• Squadcast: 24/7 live chat, knowledge base, and a community forum.

• Zencastr: 24/7 live chat, help center, and community forum.

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Who is it for?

• Squadcast is best for:

  • Professional podcasters prioritizing flawless audio quality.

  • Media companies needing scalability and reliability.

  • Creators who want a straightforward recording-first solution.

• Zencastr is best for:

  • Creators seeking an all-in-one platform for recording, editing, hosting, and distribution.

  • Podcasters who want to streamline workflows and minimize post-production time.

  • Anyone aiming to produce professional video podcasts with minimal effort.

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Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Both Squadcast and Zencastr excel at what they do, but they cater to slightly different needs.

• Choose Squadcast if you prioritize the absolute best audio fidelity and a streamlined recording experience.

• Choose Zencastr if you prefer an integrated platform that handles everything from recording to publishing.

Both platforms offer free trials, so the best way to decide is to try them out and see which aligns with your creative process.

For podcasters, journalists, and content creators, the ability to record high-quality remote interviews is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. The rise of remote work has led to a surge in demand for platforms that can deliver studio-quality audio and video from anywhere in the world. Two of the leading contenders in this space are Squadcast and Riverside. Both platforms have earned a reputation for their reliability, high-fidelity recordings, and user-friendly interfaces. But which one is the right choice for you? In this comprehensive comparison, we’ll explore the features, pricing, and unique strengths of both Squadcast and Riverside to help you make an informed decision.

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An Overview of Squadcast and Riverside

Before we dive into a detailed comparison, let’s take a high-level look at each platform.

Squadcast: The Reliable and High-Fidelity Recording Studio

Squadcast has established itself as a trusted name in the world of remote recording. It’s known for its exceptional audio quality, thanks to its progressive upload technology and local recording capabilities. This ensures that your recordings are safe and sound, even if your internet connection is unstable. Squadcast is a favorite among professional podcasters and media companies that demand the highest level of reliability and audio fidelity.

Riverside: The All-in-One Recording and Editing Platform

Riverside has quickly become a popular choice for creators who want a comprehensive solution for their remote recording and editing needs. Like Squadcast, it offers local recording to ensure high-quality audio and video. But Riverside goes a step further by providing a suite of AI-powered editing tools, including a text-based video editor, that make post-production a breeze. This makes it an ideal choice for creators who want to streamline their workflow and create polished content with minimal effort.

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Detailed Feature Comparison

Core Features

Both Squadcast and Riverside are built on a foundation of high-quality local recording. This means that they record each participant’s audio and video directly on their computer, which eliminates the risk of internet-related quality issues. Both platforms also offer progressive uploads, which means that your recordings are saved to the cloud in real-time.

Squadcast’s integration with Descript is a major selling point. Descript includes a powerful audio and video editing tool that enables editing recordings by simply editing the transcript text. This can save you a significant amount of time and effort in post-production.

Riverside’s built-in editing tools are also a major advantage. The text-based video editor is incredibly intuitive, and the AI-powered tools can help you create a polished final product with minimal effort.

Unique Features

• Squadcast: The “green room” feature lets you prepare for your session, chat with guests, check audio/video, and ensure everyone is ready before recording.

• Riverside: The “Magic Editor” automates editing by switching between speakers, removing background noise, and creating a polished final product.

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Pricing and Plans

Squadcast Pricing

Plans start at $20 per month, including local recording, progressive uploads, and cloud backups. Higher-tier plans add more recording hours, advanced features, and priority support.

Riverside Pricing

Plans start at $15 per month, including local recording, AI-powered editing tools, and automatic transcription. Higher-tier plans provide more hours, premium features, and dedicated support.

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Ease of Use

Both platforms are browser-based with user-friendly interfaces.

• Squadcast: Extremely intuitive and quick to set up, ideal for beginners.

• Riverside: Slightly steeper learning curve due to advanced features, but excellent documentation and support ease the process.

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Video and Audio Quality

• Squadcast: Records uncompressed WAV audio and up to 4K video, ensuring professional results.

• Riverside: Matches with 48kHz WAV audio and up to 4K video, plus “Magic Audio” to remove noise and enhance clarity.

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Guest Management

• Squadcast: Up to 10 participants with browser-based access and a helpful green room for pre-show prep.

• Riverside: Up to 8 participants, with the addition of a producer mode for managing sessions without being on camera.

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Integrations

• Squadcast: Works with Descript, Adobe Audition, Hindenburg, Zapier, and Dropbox.

• Riverside: Works with Adobe Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro, Descript, and Zapier.

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Customer Support

• Squadcast: 24/7 live chat, knowledge base, and community forum.

• Riverside: 24/7 live chat, detailed help center, and community forum.

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Who is it for?

• Squadcast is best for:

  • Professional podcasters prioritizing top-tier audio quality.

  • Media companies needing reliability and scale.

  • Creators who prefer a straightforward recording platform.

• Riverside is best for:

  • Creators seeking an all-in-one recording and editing platform.

  • Podcasters aiming to streamline workflow and reduce editing time.

  • Video podcasters who want polished, professional results.

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Conclusion: The Final Verdict

Both Squadcast and Riverside deliver outstanding performance for remote recording.

• Choose Squadcast if pristine audio and reliability are your top priorities.

• Choose Riverside if you want a comprehensive recording + editing solution with AI-powered enhancements.

The best way to know which fits your workflow is to try them both. Each offers a free trial so you can see firsthand which aligns better with your creative process.