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Essential Tools for Freelancers on a Budget

Updated: Sep 19

Trusted Products for Video, Design, Photo, and More




Running a creative business means wearing many hats—whether you’re editing videos, designing graphics, managing social media, or recording a podcast. As a freelancer, especially when working on a budget, it’s crucial to invest in reliable tools that give you professional results without breaking the bank. Below are some of the products I trust and use daily across all aspects of my work—from videography to graphic design and web development.


Video Production Essentials


  1. Premiere Pro


    Price: $20.99/month (Creative Cloud subscription)


    Premiere Pro is my go-to for video editing. It offers everything from basic editing tools to advanced features like color grading, effects, and audio sync. It’s perfect for freelancers who need reliable software that scales as their projects grow.


  2. Fujifilm XT4


    Price: $1,699 (body only)


    This mirrorless camera is an investment, but it’s worth every penny for high-quality video shoots. It’s great for both video and photography with in-body stabilization, making it versatile for content creation


  3. Teleprompter App


    Price: Free (with optional in-app purchases)


    The teleprompter app is a simple yet effective tool for reading scripts during video and podcast recordings. It helps maintain smooth delivery and keeps you on point without the need for memorization.


  4. Teleprompter


    Price: $69.98


    A traditional teleprompter is perfect for longer-form video content, such as interviews or tutorials. Paired with a teleprompter app, it allows for seamless on-camera delivery.


  5. Portable Light by SmallRig


    Price: $129


    Lighting can make or break your video quality, and this portable light from SmallRig ensures you always have the perfect illumination. Compact and powerful, it's ideal for both studio and location shoots.


  6. RØDE Wireless Go II


    Price: $299


    This wireless microphone system is a game-changer for freelance videographers and podcasters. The audio quality is exceptional, and its portability makes it a great option for mobile shoots.


  7. YOUSHARES Ice Packs


    Price: $12.99


    If you’ve ever had your camera overheat during an extended shoot, you know how frustrating it can be. These ice packs keep your camera cool, extending your filming time without worry.


  8. SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO SD Card


    Price: $49.99


    With fast write speeds and ample storage, this SD card is a must for shooting high-quality video without interruptions. It’s reliable and durable, perfect for both photo and video storage.


  9. JOILCAN Tripod


    Price: $59.99


    Stability is key in video production, and this budget-friendly tripod is sturdy enough for both indoor and outdoor shoots. It’s lightweight and easy to transport, which is great for freelancers on the go.


  10. MotionArray


    Price: $29.99/month (or $249/year)


    MotionArray is a valuable platform for freelancers who need stock footage, templates, and licensable music. It’s cost-effective for accessing high-quality creative assets without spending a fortune.


  11. Frame.io


    Price: Free (with limited features) | Paid plans start at $15/month


    Collaboration with clients is streamlined with Frame.io, allowing for easy video review and feedback in real-time. It’s a must for freelancers who work with remote clients.


Photography Essentials


  1. Lightroom


    Price: $9.99/month (Photography plan)


    Lightroom is a staple for professional photo editing. It offers an intuitive interface, excellent organization features, and powerful editing tools, making it an affordable choice for freelancers looking to enhance their images.


  2. Canon Camera Body


    Price: Varies


    Canon’s camera bodies are a popular choice among freelancers for their reliability and exceptional image quality. They’re great for both photography and video, giving you flexibility across projects. I personally, use the 5ds!


  3. Phone Camera Lens Kit


    Price: $29.99


    When I’m not using my DSLR or mirrorless camera, this lens kit is perfect for shooting high-quality images with just my phone. It’s budget-friendly and versatile, ideal for social media content creation.


  4. Altura Photo 62-Inch Camera Monopod


    Price: $24.99


    A monopod is a great alternative to a tripod when you need mobility. It’s perfect for events, outdoor shoots, or any situation where you need a stable but flexible shooting setup.


  5. Lens Filter


    Price: Varies


    Lens filters are essential for controlling light and enhancing image quality. I use them across all my cameras to protect my lenses and achieve the desired effects.


Graphic Design Tools


  1. Canva


    Price: Free | Pro version at $12.99/month


    Canva is an affordable graphic design tool that’s perfect for creating social media graphics, marketing materials, and even logos. Its drag-and-drop interface makes it ideal for freelancers who need professional designs on a budget.


Web Design Platforms


  1. Wix


    Price: $14/month (basic plan)


    I use Wix to host my website because it’s affordable and easy to use. Its templates and drag-and-drop design make it accessible for non-coders, making it a perfect platform for freelance web designers starting out.


  2. WordPress


    Price: Free (with hosting) | Divi Builder starts at $89/year


    For freelancers needing more customization, WordPress paired with Divi Builder offers a powerful solution for designing advanced websites. It's still budget-friendly and allows for full creative control.


Social Media Management


  1. Later


    Price: Free | Paid plans start at $15/month


    Later is an affordable scheduling tool that makes managing multiple social media accounts easy. Its visual content calendar allows you to plan and post content across platforms seamlessly.


  2. Loomly


    Price: Starts at $26/month


    Another great tool for scheduling and managing social media content, Loomly is perfect for freelancers handling client accounts. It simplifies planning and posting, saving you time and effort.


  3. Smartphone Camera Shutter Handle Grip


    Price: $24.99


    For shooting content on the go, this smartphone camera grip improves stability and control. It’s a handy tool for freelancers creating reels or TikToks on their phone.


Audio Editing & Podcasting Essentials


  1. Rode PodMic


    Price: $99


    A high-quality yet budget-friendly microphone, the Rode PodMic delivers professional-grade audio for podcasts and voiceovers. It’s a great investment for freelancers looking to start or improve their podcasting setup.


  2. StreamYard


    Price: Free | Paid plans start at $20/month


    StreamYard is perfect for remote podcast interviews. Its free plan covers most of your basic needs, making it accessible for freelancers working on a budget.


  3. Adobe Audition


    Price: $20.99/month


    Adobe Audition is my go-to audio editing software for podcasts. It offers a comprehensive suite of tools for mixing, mastering, and editing audio, making it well worth the investment for high-quality production.


  4. Castmagic


    Price: $39/month


    Castmagic leverages AI to create podcast content more efficiently. It helps transform audio into show notes, blog posts, or promotional pieces, saving freelancers time while enhancing productivity.


Business Tools


  1. LegalZoom


    Price: Varies by service


    I registered my business through LegalZoom and continue to use their services for managing taxes and legal documents. It’s affordable and simplifies the often complex legal side of running a freelance business.


  2. Harvest


    Price: Free (1 user, 2 projects) | $12/month for more


    Timekeeping and project tracking are essential for freelancers, and Harvest makes it easy to track billable hours, send invoices, and manage projects. It’s affordable and scales with your business.


  3. Spreadshirt


    Price: Free to use


    Spreadshirt allows you to design and sell custom merchandise without upfront costs. They handle production and shipping, making it a great option for freelancers looking to diversify their income streams.


Ready to Upgrade Your Creative Toolkit?


Many of these tools are available on Amazon, in addition to more items that aren’t listed here! I’ve linked them directly through my storefront for your convenience. As a freelancer, staying on budget is essential, and these trusted tools help you achieve professional results without breaking the bank. Shop now to find the perfect gear for your next creative project!


Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission on all links listed in this article and on my storefront.*

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