360° videography is revolutionizing how we experience video by allowing viewers to explore a scene from every angle. Whether you’re creating virtual reality content, immersive tours, or interactive videos, 360° videography requires specialized cameras and equipment that capture high-resolution, panoramic footage. Your setup must deliver smooth, seamless 360-degree views while maintaining excellent image quality and stability.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best camera and accessory setups for 360° videographers, whether you’re shooting immersive VR experiences or dynamic 360-degree action videos.
1. Camera Setup for 360° Videographers
360° videographers need cameras that offer high resolution, seamless stitching between lenses, and smooth video stabilization. Here are some of the best cameras for capturing immersive, spherical footage:
Insta360 ONE X3 (360° Action Camera)
The Insta360 ONE X3 is one of the top choices for 360° videographers due to its compact design and outstanding video quality. It captures 5.7K resolution 360° video, offering excellent detail and clarity. Its FlowState stabilization ensures that your footage remains smooth, even when filming fast-paced action or moving around. The ONE X3 is also waterproof and highly portable, making it ideal for outdoor and travel 360° videography.
Check out this camera and other 360° options here.
GoPro MAX (360° Action Camera)
The GoPro MAX offers 5.6K 360° video recording, with built-in Horizon Leveling and Max HyperSmooth stabilization, ensuring that your 360° footage is clear and steady. The GoPro MAX is perfect for capturing action sports, VR content, or immersive video tours. Its rugged, waterproof design makes it ideal for shooting in various environments, from underwater to rugged terrains.
Explore this camera and other 360° action cameras here.
Insta360 Pro 2 (Professional 360° Camera)
For professional 360° videographers, the Insta360 Pro 2 offers unparalleled image quality and control. It captures 8K 360° video with HDR, delivering stunning clarity and color accuracy for high-end VR and immersive experiences. With six lenses and FlowState stabilization, it ensures seamless stitching and smooth footage, even in challenging conditions. The Insta360 Pro 2 is perfect for commercial shoots, virtual tours, and high-end cinematic 360° videos.
Check out this camera and other professional 360° cameras here.
Ricoh Theta Z1 (360° Camera)
The Ricoh Theta Z1 is an excellent option for photographers and videographers looking to create high-quality 360° content. It features dual 1-inch sensors and captures 7K still images and 4K 360° video. With exceptional low-light performance and precise image stitching, the Theta Z1 is perfect for virtual tours, real estate, and professional photography applications.
Explore this camera and other high-quality 360° options here.
2. Must-Have Accessories for 360° Videographers
Along with a high-quality 360° camera, videographers need several essential accessories to ensure their footage is smooth, stable, and easy to work with in post-production. Here are the key accessories for 360° videographers:
Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick
The Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick is designed to disappear from your 360° footage, allowing you to capture immersive videos without any obstruction. It’s ideal for creating dynamic shots and unique perspectives in your 360° content, whether you’re capturing action sports or vlogging. The stick extends and retracts easily, making it versatile for various shooting scenarios.
Check out this accessory and other mounting options here.
Manfrotto VR Big Base Tripod
A sturdy tripod is essential for shooting 360° video, especially for stationary shots like virtual tours or interviews. The Manfrotto VR Big Base Tripod is perfect for 360° cameras, offering stability and support for heavier camera rigs like the Insta360 Pro 2. Its adjustable legs ensure a firm grip on any surface, while the small footprint minimizes obstruction in 360° footage.
Explore this tripod and other VR accessories here.
Zoom H3-VR Audio Recorder
To capture spatial audio for your 360° videos, the Zoom H3-VR Audio Recorder is a must-have. It records 360-degree audio that perfectly complements your immersive footage, allowing viewers to experience sound from every direction. This makes it ideal for VR, virtual tours, and interactive experiences where audio immersion is just as important as video.
Check out this audio recorder and other spatial audio options here.
SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC 128GB Memory Card
Recording 360° video in high resolution can take up a lot of storage, so having a reliable, high-speed memory card is essential. The SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC offers fast read and write speeds, ensuring you can record 4K and 8K video without lag or dropped frames. Its large capacity allows for extended recording sessions, making it perfect for 360° videographers who need to capture uninterrupted footage.
Explore this memory card and other high-capacity storage options here.
Insta360 Bullet Time Bundle
The Insta360 Bullet Time Bundle allows you to create stunning slow-motion 360° shots by swinging the camera in a full 360° around you. This accessory is perfect for capturing dramatic action shots, creating unique perspectives, and adding a cinematic touch to your 360° videos. The kit includes a handle and cord, making it easy to set up and use.
Check out this bundle and other creative accessories here.
3. Budget Breakdown for 360° Videographers
Here’s a breakdown of recommended camera setups for 360° videographers based on different budget ranges:
Budget Setup (Under £1000)
- Camera: Insta360 ONE X3
- Accessories: Insta360 Invisible Selfie Stick, SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC Card
This budget-friendly setup provides everything you need for high-quality 360° videography, with the Insta360 ONE X3 delivering smooth, immersive footage and the invisible selfie stick adding versatility to your shooting angles.
Explore this budget-friendly setup here.
Mid-Tier Setup (£1000-£3000)
- Camera: GoPro MAX
- Accessories: Manfrotto VR Big Base Tripod, Zoom H3-VR Audio Recorder, SanDisk Extreme Pro microSDXC Card
This mid-tier setup offers professional-quality video and spatial audio, perfect for creating dynamic 360° content. The GoPro MAX’s stabilization and 360° audio from the Zoom H3-VR ensure you capture immersive, high-quality experiences.
Check out this mid-tier setup here.
Pro Setup (Above £3000)
- Camera: Insta360 Pro 2
- Accessories: Manfrotto VR Big Base Tripod, Zoom H3-VR Audio Recorder, Insta360 Bullet Time Bundle
For professional 360° videographers, this setup delivers the best in image quality, stabilization, and audio immersion. The Insta360 Pro 2’s 8K video resolution ensures your footage is crisp and detailed, while the additional accessories allow for creative control and dynamic shots.
Explore this pro-level setup here.
4. Inside the Setups of Famous 360° Videographers
Let’s take a look at the gear setups used by some renowned 360° videographers to see how they create stunning, immersive experiences.
Ben Claremont (Life in 360)
Ben Claremont is a well-known 360° videographer and content creator who specializes in virtual tours and immersive video experiences. His setup often includes:
- Camera: Insta360 Pro 2 – for its exceptional 8K resolution and professional-grade features.
- Audio: Zoom H3-VR Audio Recorder – for capturing immersive, spatial audio to complement his 360° footage.
- Other Gear: Claremont uses a variety of tripods and mounts to stabilize his shots and create seamless virtual tours.
Explore similar gear used by Ben Claremont here.
Hugh Hou (CreatorUp!)
Hugh Hou is a VR filmmaker and 360° videographer known for his work in immersive storytelling and virtual reality experiences. His setup includes:
- Camera: GoPro MAX – for its rugged design and ability to capture dynamic action shots in 360°.
- Other Gear: Hou frequently uses gimbals and stabilization tools to ensure smooth, immersive footage, even during intense motion.
Check out similar gear used by Hugh Hou here.
5. Conclusion: Create Immersive Experiences with the Right Gear
360° videography requires specialized equipment to capture every angle and provide viewers with a fully immersive experience. Whether you’re creating VR content, virtual tours, or dynamic 360° action videos, investing in the right camera and accessories will ensure your footage is sharp, seamless, and engaging.
Take inspiration from top 360° videographers like Ben Claremont and Hugh Hou, and build a setup that suits your style and budget. Explore our full range of cameras and accessories for 360° videographers here.