As one of the most popular APS-C interchangeable lens compact cameras available out there, the Sony A6500 is still the primary choice for many indie filmmakers and enthusiasts alike who want to get to grips with filmmaking and start shooting on the cheap. The camera provides highly demanded features such as stunning 4K video recording, excellent slow-motion capabilities, decent low light performance, built-in image stabilization in a small, lightweight, and most importantly, affordable package.
If this is your first ever camera or if you’re just in the beginning of your creative journey, odds are you may not even have the proper accessories to start shooting. To sort things out, Sidney Diongzon suggests some essential pieces of extra gear that should help you to get going with your Sony A6500.
One of the essential accessories you’ll need to start using the camera (or any camera for that matter) is a memory card, specifically an SD card. In that regard, Sidney recommends the SanDisk 64GB Extreme Pro UHS-II SDXC.
While the name is a mouthful, it’s performance and storage capabilities is the best in its class. With a read speed of up to 300 MB/s, you’re guaranteed reliable performance without little to no risk of data corruption. SanDisk Extreme Pro SD cards generally come with different capacities, but it’s recommended that with this camera you get a card that is at least 64GB Class 10.
Even though you don’t need to spend the money to get the full 300MB/s read speed, make sure that your camera’s shooting bitrate doesn’t surpass the one of your memory cards. Although if you’re looking to capture the highest quality possible, it may be worth investing in a 300MB/s card.
For microphones, a viable option for this camera is the Rode VideoMic Pro+. Australian microphone manufacturer Rode is world-renowned for its line of high-quality products used by many from novice to seasoned professional. As the evolution of the original VideoMic Pro, the VideoMic Pro+ is set to offer crystal clear audio in a compact form factor, perfect for cameras such as the Sony a6500.
When it comes to tripods, you want to opt for something that is reliable and won’t put your shiny new Sony mirrorless camera at risk, even after a year of use. For a solidly-built and flexible solution, Sidney recommends the MeFOTO Roadtrip Travel Tripod. Not only is this tripod well-constructed, but it’s also compact with a collapsed length of 15″ while providing a maximum height of five feet. What’s more, by unscrewing a few parts of the tripod, you can convert it into a monopod. You’re basically getting a 2-for-1 deal when you buy this product.
For carrying around your Sony A6500, you’ve got two options on Sidney’s list. If you want a more traditional backpack-style bag for your camera, go for the ThinkTank Airport Essentials Backpack. With its adjustable dividers, ample space (that even fits a laptop), and sleek black design, this bag will help you to get your camera gear where you need to go without having to worry of any camera equipment breaking in-transit.
If you’re looking for a shoulder-style carrying bag for the camera, then Sidney recommends the Tenba DNA 15 Slim Messenger Bag. The product also has adjustable dividers, sufficient storage space, and just for kicks includes silent velcro, perfect for those who want to avoid unwanted attention from opening a bag.
Another almost mandatory accessory that could save you in production is a power bank. The A6500, just like other cameras of its size, has tiny batteries that tend to die in a short manner of time. Thankfully, the camera has a USB power in port that allows you to charge the device on the fly.
In this case, the Jackery Fit Dual USB Power Bank may be what you’re looking for. Not only is it reliable and charges fast, but also sports two USB ports (to charge more than one device) alongside a convenient built-in flashlight.
What are your favorite Sony A6500 accessories for starters? Drop a few lines on the topic in the comments below.
[source: Sidney Diongzon]
Order Links:
- Sony Alpha a6500 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) (B&H, Amazon US)
- SanDisk Extreme PRO 64GB (B&H, Amazon US)
- Rode VideoMic Pro + (B&H, Amazon US)
- MeFOTO Roadtrip Travel Tripod (B&H, Amazon US)
- ThinkTank Airport Essentials Backpack (B&H, Amazon US)
- Tenba DNA 15 Slim Messenger Bag (B&H, Amazon US)
- Jackery Fit Dual USB Power Bank (Amazon US)
Disclaimer: As an Amazon Associate partner and participant in B&H and Adorama Affiliate programmes, we earn a small comission from each purchase made through the affiliate links listed above at no additional cost to you.
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