Mondo: Top 5 Tips to Shoot Slick Smartphone Videos
Mondo Admin / 12-09-2023 / Tech
Are you ready to master the art of mobile video production? Mobile technology has revolutionised the way we capture our special moments. With high-quality camera features integrated into our smartphones, everyone has become an amateur videographer. But how can we take our mobile video production skills to the next level? Here are five simple yet effective tips to help you shoot slick smartphone videos like a pro:
When it comes to shooting videos on your smartphone, the first rule is to avoid vertical video syndrome. Remember, your smartphone video may look fantastic on your phone's vertical screen, but it won't translate well onto a horizontal computer or television screen.
To make your video aesthetically pleasing on standard screens, always shoot in landscape mode, unless you’re shooting specifically for vertical channels like TikTok or Reels, in which case Portrait is the better option. Landscape mode in 16:9 or 4:8 aspect ratios is ideal to capture a wider field of view and eliminates the annoying black bars on either side of your video.
The beauty of shooting videos with a smartphone lies in its convenience and portability, but these lightweight devices can be challenging to keep stable, leading to shaky footage.
To avoid this, hold your smartphone with both hands and keep your arms as close to your body as possible. This helps minimise small involuntary movements. For longer sequences, consider using a tripod or a stabiliser like an OSMO gimbal. These accessories not only provide a steady base but also allow for smooth, controlled movements, giving your videos a more professional look.
Good lighting can make or break your video. As smartphone cameras have smaller image sensors and lenses than traditional cameras, they are heavily dependent on good lighting conditions.
Always aim to shoot your videos in brightly lit areas to avoid grainy footage. Be mindful not to point the camera directly at bright light sources to prevent overexposure and lens flare. If the light is causing issues with your shots, try changing your position or angle until you find a spot where the light works in your favour.
While it's easy to focus solely on the visual aspect of your video, remember that audio is equally important. Poor audio quality can ruin an otherwise perfect video.
Smartphone microphones tend to pick up ambient sounds such as wind or traffic, which can interfere with the audio you want to capture. If you're filming an interview or a scene with dialogue, ensure the location is quiet. For better audio quality, consider using an external microphone or an audio recording device.
To take your smartphone videography to the next level, consider investing in a few smart accessories:
Lenses:
Enhance your smartphone's camera capabilities with lens adapters. From telephoto to fisheye and macro lenses, there's a variety of options to choose from based on your shooting requirements.
Lights:
If you're filming in low-light conditions, invest in a small LED light, such as a ring light, to attach to your phone or a mini tripod. This can dramatically improve the quality of your video.
Microphones:
An external microphone can significantly enhance your audio quality, reducing unwanted noise and focusing on your primary audio source.
Apps:
Numerous video-enhancing apps are available that can improve your smartphone's camera functionality, offer sophisticated AI editing tools, and even provide special shooting techniques.
By incorporating these tips into your mobile video production process, you can create professional-looking videos right from your smartphone. So, grab your phone, get creative, and start shooting!
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