Learn more about how the HSU Library can help
support your fully online research and learning needs.
Stay updated at HSU Campus Ready.
The Library has equipment for you to check out, free of charge. You can borrow anything for three days and can grab multiple items, including DSLR cameras, camcorders, GoPro cameras, tripods, digital audio recorders, microphones and more. Ask for any of these items at the check out desk on the first floor.
During the pandemic we will continue to send out Digital Media Equipment. Due to the complexities of checking out and shipping audio/visual recording equipment, we will likely need to contact you for more information, so please watch for any emails from us. To start a request, fill out and submit the Digital Media Equipment Request form (button below) using your HSU login.
If you have any questions about equipment, or other aspects of a digital project, we'd are happy to help! Contact us (the Digital Media Lab) at dml@humboldt.edu. You can also make equipment requests directly by email.
View the links on the left (top on mobile) to see what equipment is available to borrow by project type.
People who are in the area can pick up and return digital media equipment (and other library materials) at the library checkout desk. Currently, the library checkout desk is in the lower level of the library as we wrap up construction. To see how to get to the lower level checkout desk, see the map below.
If you do not live in the area, we will contact you about shipping options when you submit your request. Some items cannot be shipped (in order to avoid breakage).
Audio equipment is listed on our Creating Audio page. Don't forget that the audio in your video project is as important as the video itself. Depending on your project, you may want to capture your audio to a separate device in order to get the best quality. Many of the cameras have built-in mics that are fine, but some are lacking.
The Canon Vixia HF R300, R700 and R800 cameras are great for capturing high-quality footage for your video project, including interviews, presentations, events and more. The cameras include all you need to record basic video (includes built-in mic) but you may want to also borrow a tripod, lavalier mic or other accessories.
Compatible Microphones
The Canon T6i is a great camera that provides plenty of automatic point-and-shoot functions but also allows you to control things like ISO, focus, shutter speed, and more to take those technical shots.
The T6i is also WiFi enabled to allow you to transfer photos and video to mobile devices and social media. This DSLR is also optimized to shoot full HD (1080p) video. The adjustable vari-angle touchscreen makes taking shots at awkward angles a snap.
This DSLR camera is great for photos and video.
The camera is ready for point and shoot, but remember to:
The Nikon D3200 is a great camera that provides plenty of automatic point-and-shoot functions but also allows you to control things like ISO, focus, shutter speed, and more to take those technical shots.
This DSLR camera is great for photos and video.
The camera is ready for point and shoot, but remember to:
The Library has four (4) GoPro Hero 6 Black cameras available to check out for your next video project. These tiny cameras are great for almost any video or photo project. They are waterproof (to 33 ft with the door closed), have built in mics, and can be controlled via the free mobile GoPro app (via Bluetooth and Wireless connections- instructions). You can also control the camera using the LCD touch screen.
Try out the Quik App to make edits, add transitions, music and more — all from your phone or tablet. Stream live directly from the camera using it as a webcam to use with Zoom and other desktop applications or directly live stream to Facebook, YouTube, and more (see details and instructions below).
You can also edit your videos with a variety of other applications free to you as a member of HSU. Visit our Creating Video Software guide for recommendations and details.
The camera is simple but still requires a few important considerations:
The Logitech c920 HD Pro Webcam is great for web conferencing, live streaming, and recording interviews and events. The high quality of the 1080p HD camera is matched by the stereo mics with built-in noise reduction.
The webcam is quite simple- all you need is a computer or device with a USB port and software for your project. Simply plug in the camera and it should automatically be recognized by Windows or Mac computers. For best results with your project be sure to test out the camera and mics before your event or video shoot.
There are different programs you can use for your project, including:
The Insta360 One X is a dual-lens 360-degree (spherical) video camera that captures video for everything around you. You can also easily grab still images from the video using the app, which is also used to control the camera (via Bluetooth and Wireless connections- instructions).
Download your videos using the included USB cable or use the app to save to your phone or tablet. The Insta360 One X also supports live streaming and many features that make this more than just a 360-degree camera.
Use the invisible selfie stick (included) to shoot footage that appears to be floating in mid-air. Upload photos directly to Google Street View with the app.
The camera itself is simple and can be used on its own but works best with the Android and iOS apps and some setup to get started:
360-degree video is very different from regular video and there are a few things you'll want to consider when designing your next 360 project.
If you are looking for more in-depth tutorials on creating videos, we have some Online SkillShops that cover the complete process. You will also earn a badge for each SkillShop you complete!
