Here is a list of tools I use daily. These are mostly perfect for me and I have indicated which I'd swap out next. I have included hardware, software, business tools and memberships as these all come into play.

What I Use

This is not a Must Have list. This is simply what I use. My daily tasks range from editing a video to publishing an entire website. Your tools will, and should, be different.

• Computers: Mac dual core G4 w/20" monitor, Sony Vaio Laptop (PCG-K27)
• Editing: Final Cut Pro (PC alternative is AVID), Vegas
• Video Graphics: Motion, Live Type, AfterEffects
• Cameras: PD150 - workhorse Sony 3 chip SD cam; HDV FX1 (better choices available)
• Field Mic: Sennheiser wireless system (with lav and 'butt' plug)
• Studio Mic: I recommend the Samson CO1U (not recommended for Macs)
• Lighting: Arri 4 Fresnel kit with softbox (2x300w, 2x600w) - Moving to fluorescent lights.
• Video Software: Ultra, DV Rack,
• Web Software: Dreamweaver, notepad
• Compression: Currently Flash Video Compressor and Riva, looking at Sorenson for it's 2 pass VBR ability.
• Graphic Software: Photoshop, Illustrator
• Publishing: Was Quark and is now InDesign but not used it much.
• Tutorials: Camtasia Libraries: Digital Juice backgrounds and overlays. SmartSound audio, istockvideo, sounddogs.com for sfx.
• Memberships: bmyers.com, msowner.com, 5000bc.com, askmrvideo.com ;-)
• Other: Firefox, S3 Organizer, Snagit, SnapzPro, Tubes, ebook Creator, Skype, Joomla (web development), Palm 650 (cell)
• Business Tools: QuickBooks Online, GotVmail (800 number), SimulScribe (vmail transcriptions), Gmail (everything), brickworkindia.com (development team)

"OMG - That's a lot"

I acquired these tools over 20 years - not all at once. Most were paid via a job they were required for. You can get excellent results with a single chip camcorder, lavalier mic and Sony Vegas ONLY. All the rest are bells and whistles that make running a web/video business a little easier.

Here is what I recommend if just starting out.

These tools will allow you to produce a first rate Instructional DVD:

• Sony Camera with mic in jack (SD - Standard Def -  is fine) $400-$1000
• Wired Lavalier Mic (I like Sony but Radio Shack has some great ones) $50-$250
• Tripod with Fluid Head - Manfrotto, Slik, or Bogen $250-$1000 (don't skimp)
• Sony Vegas Movie Studio Platinum Edition $119 (Mac Users get FCP Express)
• Lights - build your own daylight flourescent system $100-$250
• Photoshop Elements $100
• Riva Encoder/Player Free
• Dreamweaver $400 (optional). Do not get FrontPage whatever you do!

The above is an amazing system for under $3000. If upgrading from the above I'd get a three chip camera and a wireless lav mic. If wanting to do greenscreen work (advanced topic) I'd look at Ultra. Next I'd get a professional light kit with softboxes.

"Why not give us the specifics like model numbers?"

Here's why, if I give you a shopping list I do you no service. Videographers need to touch and feel and ask alot of questions about their gear. Video gear, like a wallet, is personal. That might sound silly but it is very true. Additionally, a videographer needs to see how each interacts with the other. Does this tripod like the camera? Does this lav mic hook into my camera easily? Etc.

"What about a computer?"

Now that's a really personal question! Most of you already have a computer (since you are reading this online!). Sony Vegas will work with most modern PC's no problem. FCP Express will work with any Mac. So if needing a new computer again, go out and see which one works best for you.

Anything Else?

There are always tons of tools and gizmos. I try to keep up-to-date on all the new things coming out and include the best "finds" in the newsletter. If you have a favorite tool, post it in the forums and let us all know about it.