Hey guys,

I recently started a video podcast and thus far have just been recording in 1080p and zooming in to create cuts during the show. Recently I learned that it would be better to film in 4k, then import into a 1080p project and create close ups that way, which is what I will do for the time being. However I'd like to eventually upgrade to a multicam setup with 3 cameras for capturing the host, guest/co-host, and host + guest/co-host in one shot. But I'm not sure the best way to go about it. So I've got hardware and software questions. I'll run you all through my current set up and then tell you what I currently have in mind moving forward.

My Current Hardware:

(Video)

Canon Eos R + RF 35mm F1.8 macro IS STM lens + Dummy battery + Elgato capture card

iPhone 12 (though as I mentioned before, I don't currently use this at all)

(Audio)

Scarlett 4i4 Focusrite

2 Shure MV7x mics

Ableton to record the incoming audio

Software I currently use to record the podcast:

OBS

I know I can use my phone as a camera, but my concern is that it would run out of battery power very quickly (granted I haven't tested how long the battery will last, but I do notice that the battery life is progressively shortening overtime). So I've thought about purchasing two cheap 1080p webcams and then opening up 3 instances of OBS to record the separate camera angles. However I'm worried that this would be incredibly taxing on my computer and that OBS might crash or something and interrupt the flow of the podcast.

Note: I would prefer a 4k webcam, but the ones I have seen only record in 60fps and I would prefer to record in 24fps or at least 30fps.

Unfortunately I know this has the drawback of requiring that I then edit the multicam footage manually in post. I also can't help but feel that there is a better way to do things. While I'm at it, my lighting leaves much to be desired. And by that I mean my lighting set up is nonexistent, as I currently only have one light bulb directly overhead and a window on the side as lighting right now. I would love to hear from you all on best lighting practices for video podcasts.

TL;DR My main questions:

1. What's the most budget friendly way for me to upgrade to a multicam setup for my podcast? Are webcams the best way to do it on a budget, or is there a better way?

2. What's the best workflow for recording the multicam footage? Is my idea to run 3 separate instances of OBS for each camera angle the best way to go about this? Or are there better alternatives?

3. Best lighting equipment to use for multicam footage like this? I don't need anything high end, just something that will do the job for now.

Hello,

I am about to graduate college in the spring and I am looking to kickstart my passion of podcasting and content creation. I am willing to invest roughly 500-1000$ on one or more cameras.

In a perfect world, I would like to have one camera that would be good for podcasts and filming aesthetic environments like the heart of a major city and different aspects of nature.

Keep in mind... I am VERY new to all of this and don't really understand the terminology of shutter speed, lighting, and lenses. So any information would be very helpful.

Is it possible to do both of these with one camera?

Thanks.