Basics of Using your SmartPhone to Make Videos
By Mark Shapiro
watch the video here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gTdhDuT9fnw
1, Audio is Number One
2. Hold camera sideways, not up and down
3. Shoot RAW – it is best to add special effects and filters in the editing process.
4. Shoot using the highest possible resolution
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 in your smartphone – remove old videos and photos from your phone; make room for BIG video files
4. Learn your zoom setting – digital vs optical. When does your smartphone transition from optical to digital? When digital zooms in, it also loses resolution. Try not to use digital zoom.
5. Charge up your battery and practice with your accessories – tripod, camera platform, microphones, props
6. Creating high-quality videos with your smartphone has become increasingly accessible due to advancements in mobile camera technology and video editing apps.
Here are my ten rules to follow for making great videos using your smartphone:
1. Steady Shots: • Use a tripod or a stabilizer to keep your shots steady and minimize shaky footage. • When handheld, hold your smartphone with both hands, and use your body as a stabilizer. • Physical stabilization is better than digital
2. How to camouflage shakiness – wide angle, shoot high speed and then slo-mo it
3. It is easier to be smooth by physically moving in & out rather than using the zoom control on your phone.
4. Good Lighting: • Natural light is often the best option. Film in well-lit areas, but avoid harsh direct sunlight, which can create harsh shadows. • If necessary, invest in small, affordable LED lights for better control over your lighting.
5. Clean Audio: • Use an external microphone for better audio quality, especially if you’re recording interviews or dialogue. • If you dont have an external mike, get CLOSE to your subject and use your body to shield from background noise.
7. Frame Your Shots: • 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. • • Use framing techniques like doorways or windows to add depth to your shots. But be careful of camera movement – because it implies a “watcher” Wide angles are usually a lot more interesting than med shots; alternate between wide angel, med and CUs. • Move your camera – have fun. Pull out to reveal; push in to spotlight. Physical movement of the camera is more interesting than zooming.
8. Horizontal vs Vertical Orientation: • Shoot your videos in landscape (horizontal) orientation is the standard for most video content and provides a better viewing experience. Yes, vertical works good for TikTok, IG videos, YouTube shorts, Facebook Reels and other social media platforms.
9. Manual Settings: • 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. •
10. Editing and Post-Production: • Use video editing apps on your smartphone to trim, cut, and edit your footage. • Add music, text, transitions, and effects as needed to enhance your video’s quality. • 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: 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.
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