The Top 20 Content Creation Tools for Creators & Influencers

Content creation tools are the platforms, apps, and gadgets that make a creator's job easier. 

The right tools can make all the difference in streamlining your ability to create scroll-stopping, consistent content.

Without them, it’s easy to get caught up in the nuances of creating — risking precious time that could be better spent engaging with your community. 

Ready to level up your social? Here’s our ultimate guide to the best tools for creators and influencers.

Content Creation Tools for Editing Videos

​​With video content becoming more popular than ever, it’s important to have a few go-to video editing apps for content creation.

#1: LumaFusion

LumaFusion makes editing videos right on your phone easier than ever, with drag-and-drop clips, text overlays, and audio features.

#2: MoJo

Bring your brand to life with MoJo, with animated templates that add that little something extra to your Instagram Stories and other social content.

#3: CapCut

Jumping on TikTok and Reels trends is simpler than ever with CapCut. This popular app features templates that make editing aesthetic compilations and creating trending content a breeze.

Check out an example of how we use CapCut to make memes for our TikTok account.

TIP: For CapCut tips and tricks, bookmark this post: How To Find & Use CapCut Templates for TikTok in 2024

Photography Apps & Tools for Social Media

Content creation often involves honing your photography skills and in turn, developing an editing process too.

The best part is that you don’t have to spend hours fussing over individual edits with these tools.

#1: Lightroom Presets

Lightroom Presets allow you to edit multiple photos at once, streamlining your content publishing and scheduling. 

Plus, you can create custom presets to keep your feed and brand aesthetic consistent. 

#2: Tezza

Tezza is a photo editing app made by creators - Tezza Barton and Scott Herrmann - for creators. “We wanted the app itself to feel as fun and as branded and as impactful as the art of creating itself,” said Scott on their episode of Beyond Influence.

Don’t miss the new TezzaCam, which lets you take filtered photos directly in the app.

#3: VSCO

Part social network, part editing app, VSCO allows you to experiment with presets, try new filters, and get inspiration from fellow creators and photography buffs.

Graphic Design Apps for Content Creators

Whether graphic design is your passion, or you’re brand new to design, this app makes it easy to develop visuals aligned with your brand and style.

Canva

Known for its easy drag-and-drop design style, Canva is a popular choice for all types of creatives.

You can use their pre-made templates for Instagram, or to jazz up your social media proposals.

Plus, if you’re using Later Social, you can use our Canva Integration to transfer your designs to your media library in seconds.

Idea Generation Tools for New Content

Consistent posting is essential… but what happens when you run out of ideas?

#1: ChatGPT

Unlock the power of AI with ChatGPT. This free tool makes it easy to get new content ideas and step-by-step instructions for new social skills.

You can check out some of our favorite ChatGPT prompts for social media marketers here.

TIP: If you like ChatGPT, check out our list of AI tools for marketers to help you speed up your day-to-day admin and focus on the things you love about content creation.

#2: Caption Writer

Got the perfect photo or video, the right vibe, but you just can’t think of the perfect caption? 

Enter Later’s AI Caption Writer. This tool makes it easy to generate a caption that fits your image or video, using your brand voice. Start a free trial below to try it out for 2 weeks.

The Essential Social Media Management Tool for Content Creators

When it comes to social media management, there’s one tool that goes above and beyond for content creators…

Later Social

We might be biased… but Later Social has everything that content creators need to stay consistent, get creative, and grow their brands online. Some would say it's the perfect tool for creators. 

What do creators love about Later Social? It’s hard to narrow down, but some of the highlights include:

• Social media scheduling for 7 different platforms;

• Custom hashtag suggestions for every post; 

• UGC tools to collect and repost user-generated content; and

• A partnership with Later Influence, making it easy for brands to find you for potential partnerships.

Try a 2-week trial for free below and start getting ahead of the social media game.

Must-Have Equipment for Content Creators

There are 4 essential pieces of equipment that content creators need in their wheelhouse.

Here’s what you need - and our recommendations for some of the best tools on the market.

#1: Ring Light

When you need help controlling the lighting at home, a ring light tripod combo can do the trick.

Not only does it help you create a bright aesthetic — it allows you to be hands-free to create more engaging Instagram Stories (or your next tutorial).

Many ring light tripods even have options for dimming the light to control the warmth or coolness of your shot, as well as a remote clicker for seamless content control.

Later's Pick: Kaiess 10.2" Selfie Ring Light 

• There are tons of options out there but our pick is the Kaiess 10.2" Selfie Ring Light — it's a great choice without the hefty price tag.

#2: Computer

As a content creator, a good-quality laptop or desktop for editing, planning, and scheduling your posts is essential.

While there are tons of options to choose from, our advice is to pick one that fits your specific needs. 

Whether it’s designing graphics or outlining a storyboard and script for your upcoming YouTube video, the right computer will empower your creativity without slowing you down. 

#3: Portable Charger

Not to be dramatic, but your electronics are your lifeline in the content world. 

And there’s nothing more heartbreaking than a phone dying in the middle of a shoot.

Later's Pick: mophie Powerstation XXL Power Bank

• A portable charger, like the morphie Powerstation XXL Power Bank, is an easy fix to make sure your content creation doesn’t get cut short when you’re away from home. 

#4: Camera

If video is your thing, a high-quality camera is just what you need to amplify your output.

And while not essential, many vloggers and creators alike swear by a good vlogging camera, especially when it comes to long-form content.

Later's Pick: Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera

• Our consensus? For the average creator’s needs, the Sony ZV-1 Digital Camera is a fabulous option.

The Most Useful Video Content Creation Tools for TikTok, YouTube & Reels

If you’re shooting footage specifically for TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram Reels, a few simple tools can produce some pretty impressive results.

Plus, by improving the production value and audio of your content, you might start to see a boost in your view and engagement rates too.

Here’s six of our favorite content creation tools for video:

#1: Flexible Tripod

You’re probably already quite familiar with the handiness of tripods when photographing.

But, if you’re regularly shooting flatlays and product photography — finding a flexible tripod can take your styled shots to the next level.

Later's Pick: K&F Concept 67 inch Camera Tripod

• By easily converting to different angles, this MACC (Multi-Angle Center Column) tripod from K&F will give you a wider range of motion while stabilizing your camera.

#2: Microphone

A microphone isn’t just a sound investment for podcasters — there are plenty of reasons content creators should add one to their collection.

Whether it's recording tutorials or narrating video content, having a good quality mic on hand can often save the day — especially in environments where the audio is challenging.

Later's Pick: Snowball iCE USB Microphone

• The Snowball iCE USB Microphone is just one of many that is perfect if you’re balling on a budget.

#3: Smartphone Camera Lenses

While smartphone cameras have come a long way, there’s still some limitations to what you can capture with your phone. 

That’s where a smartphone camera lens kit comes in.

Later's Pick: Godefa Phone Camera Lens Kit

• With everything from fisheye perspective to macro views, the Godefa Phone Camera Lens Kit lets you transform your phone camera with a simple lens clip.

#4: Backdrops

Wish you had marble countertops or colorful wall tiles in your home? Don’t worry — you can easily fake it.

Later's Pick: Backdrops from Capture by Lucy

• From vinyl photography backgrounds to a simple whiteboard, you can create clean and interesting displays for your flatlays or portraits with Capture by Lucy. 

#5: Selfie Ring Light Clip

Another clip that’s popular among influencers and content creators is a selfie ring light clip.

Later's Pick: Kimwood Rechargeable 60 LED Selfie Ring Light

• Simply clip the Kimwood Rechargeable 60 LED Selfie Ring Light, onto your phone and voilà — you’ve got perfect lighting! This is especially useful for on-the-go recording that will give you a nice glow, even on gloomy of days.

#6: Softbox Lighting Kit

A softbox lighting kit is a must-have purchase for video or product photography shots. 

Most kits contain two softbox lights, which instantly transforms any room into a professional studio.

Later's Pick: HPUSN Softbox Lighting Kit

• Get a soft, diffused light by placing a lightbox, like these from HPUSN, on each side of the object or person you’re photographing.

• TIP: Choose a neutral daylight balanced bulb to avoid adding an unwanted tint to your photos or video.

Content Creation, Made Simple

And there you have it — your complete list of content creator tools, apps, and websites to help build your community and make your life easier. 

If you don’t know where to start, we’ve made it easy for you. Start your two-week trial of Later Social to start experimenting with social media management at the link below 

You’ll see how saving time planning, scheduling and analyzing your social makes more time for what matters most – creating content and connecting with your audience.