How to Make Videos with your SmartPhone – for Business, for Organizations, for Fun

By: Mark

VideoMasters How to Make Video Program – Nov 4, 2023

Watch the Video Here – Learn How to Make Videos using your SmartPhone

Basics of Using your SmartPhone to Make Videos

1,            Audio is Number One

2.            Hold camera sideways, not up and down

3.            hoot RAW – it is best to add special effects and filters in the editing process.

4.            Shoot using the highest possible resolution (show image of S21 Video Set Up screen)

How to prepare for your video shoot

  1. Make a plan, a script, a list of the shots you NEED to get, a list of the shots that would be GOOD to get. Have a backup plan in case things go wrong. (actors don’t show up, bad weather, etc.)
  2. Prepare your smartphone camera- adjust setting for optimum quality & resolution; prepare any in-camera effects you may want to use (IE director mode, selfie/vs standard mode, evening/night video, auto focus vs fixed)
  3. Maximize raw storage space – remove old videos and photos form your phone; make room for BIG video files
  4. Learn your zoom setting – digital vs optical
  5. Charge up your battery and practice with your accessories – tripod, camera platform, microphones, props

Creating high-quality videos with your smartphone has become increasingly accessible due to advancements in mobile camera technology and video editing apps. Here are seven rules to follow for making great videos using your smartphone:

  1. Steady Shots:
  1. Use a tripod or a stabilizer to keep your shots steady and minimize shaky footage.
  2. When handheld, hold your smartphone with both hands, and use your body as a stabilizer.
  3. Physical stabilization is better than digital
  1. How to camouflage shakiness – wide angle, shoot high speed and then slo-mo it
  2. It is easier to be smooth by physically moving in rather than using the zoom control on your phone.
  5. Good Lighting:
  1. Natural light is often the best option. Film in well-lit areas, but avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows.
  2. If necessary, invest in small, affordable LED lights for better control over your lighting.
  1. Clean Audio:
  1. Use an external microphone for better audio quality, especially if you’re recording interviews or dialogue.
  2. If you dont have an external mike, get CLOSE to your subject and use your body to shield from background noise.
  3. Minimize background by using noise-cancelling apps or post-production tools. We will cover that late rin our program.
  1. Frame Your Shots:
  1. Follow the rule of thirds to compose your shots. Place your subject off-center for a more visually pleasing result. Remember look room; especially for interviews.
  2.  
  3. Use framing techniques like doorways or windows to add depth to your shots. But be careful of camera movement – because it implies a “watcher”
  4. Wide angles are usually a lot more interesting than med shots; alternate between wide angel, med and CUs.
  5. Move your camera – have fun. Pull out to reveal; push in to spotlight. Physical movement of the camera is more interesting than zooming.
  6. Know the difference between optical zoom and digital zoom. Every phone is different. My Samsung S21 uses optical zoom up to 3x. After that, it is digital. Digital zoom distorts and pixelates your shots.
  7.  
  1. Horizontal Orientation:
  1. Always shoot your videos in landscape (horizontal) orientation. This is the standard for most video content and provides a better viewing experience.
  1. Manual Settings:
  1. Learn to adjust your smartphone’s camera settings manually, if possible. You can control exposure, focus, white balance, and more to achieve the look you want.
  2. Mark’s samsungS21 video settings – https://www.guidingtech.com/best-samsung-galaxy-s21-camera-settings-tricks/
  1. Editing and Post-Production:
  1. Use video editing apps on your smartphone to trim, cut, and edit your footage.
  2. Add music, text, transitions, and effects as needed to enhance your video’s quality.
  3. Pay attention to color correction and audio enhancement during post-production.

Make space on your smartphone to record and store your video! (image of stored files, from phones hard drive)

Bonus Tip: 8. Plan Your Shots:

  • Before you start shooting, plan your shots by creating a shot list or storyboard. This will help you capture the footage you need and save time during editing.

By following these rules and continually practicing and learning about videography, you can create impressive videos using your smartphone. It’s important to remember that the content and story you’re trying to convey are just as important as the technical aspects of shooting and editing.