What equipment do I need and how much to start making my own content?
 

Hi, I'm new here but I'm glad I found this forum. I'm interested in filming my own content (as a performer and director) but I have a few questions.

I'll preface by apologizing if these are a bit redundant but I tried doing a search and couldn't quite find an answer to my specific questions.

First, what equipment would I need to start filming my own content? I'm mainly interested in gonzo content -- just straight ahead B/G, B/B/G, or B/B/G content. I like the content where it's just the two performers, fixed camera, in a nice room (like a hotel room) with natural lighting. It sounds pretty simple but there's degrees of quality even in that. I know people have created high-quality content with just an iPhone, but I'm assuming they're using an app like FilMic to get the best quality even then. I'm wondering should I invest in a DSLR camera, and if so, which one?

I'm assuming prior to being uploaded the content is color-graded and edited, but I have little idea how this is done in porn. I know of some film editing software but is there an industry standard or typical piece of software content creators use to make their content high quality?

And, to that point, I'm wondering about filming for my type. I'm a fairly dark-skinned Black man. I know it's lighting in general is important but it seems like it's especially important darker skinned people. Any tips on lighting either during filming or in post?

Also, how much money would you suggest a new adult content creator have saved away prior to starting? Ideally I would like to do content swaps with female performers who already have OF, ManyVids, etc., but I know some of the more popular girls can be selective with whom they work with. I'm not opposed to booking girls to work with me to start with until I build up my brand, but I'm not sure what's a reasonable asking price or what's a reasonable budget to have in regards to booking models.

Sorry if that was a little long winded but as you can see I have a lot of questions. Thanks in advance for your advice!