In the age of smartphones, almost everyone has a powerful video camera right in their pocket. Mobile filming has become more accessible than ever, and with a little know-how, you can create impressive videos that rival professional productions. If you're just starting your journey into mobile filmmaking, we've got you covered with these top ten tips to get started. You'll quickly realize that it's easier than you might think.
Master Your Device
Get to know your smartphone's camera settings, including resolution, frame rate, and exposure controls. This knowledge is crucial for achieving the best results.
Stabilisation is Key
Shaky footage can ruin a great video. Invest in a tripod or gimbal to ensure steady shots. Even if you don't have these tools, a lot of modern phones have inbuilt stabilisation so choose your phone wisely.
Lighting Matters
Good lighting is essential for quality video. Natural light works wonders, but you can also experiment with inexpensive LED lights or household lamps. Its all about using the most amount light that is ready available. Be careful of mixed sunlight which can cast shadows or overexpose your shot if you're not in the right spot.
Audio Quality
People can forgive less-than-perfect visuals, but poor audio quality is less forgivable. Invest in an external microphone to capture clear and crisp sounds. Wind noise is one of the worst things to combat but with knowledge of surroundings and the right kit there simple solutions.
Plan Your Shots
Before hitting record, plan your shots and create a shot list. This will help you tell a compelling story and avoid unnecessary reshoots. Think about subject, locations and the variety of shots you need. Get it on paper before you even pick up your phone.
Use the Rule of Thirds
Apply this basic composition rule to create more visually appealing shots. Divide your frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically and place your subject or you along these lines or at their intersections. Filming at angle will also help the depth of a shot and never film in front of a wall or structure, make it more dimensional.
Edit on Your Smartphone
You don't need a high-end computer to edit videos. Many mobile apps offer powerful editing features. Experiment with apps like iMovie, Adobe Premiere Rush, Video leap, Capcut and Kinemaster. All are suited to help you just push the standard of editing that much higher and give you more options!
Add Generic shots and Cutaways
Incorporating (additional footage) and cutaways can make your videos more engaging and professional. Capture extra footage to use during the editing process. Detail shots of what your describing which links with content. Cutaway is a shot that is filmed from the main action indicating detail, an object , variation of shots or location. It helps your audience feel like they're there and give context to your film.
Plan and Tell a Story
Every video should have a clear narrative and structure. Whether you're creating a vlog, tutorial, or short film, engage your audience with a compelling story or message. You should always plan your story out before you even pick up a phone to film.
Practice and Learn
Smart Phone filmmaking is a skill that improves with practice. Watch tutorials, read about filmmaking techniques, and don't be afraid to experiment and learn from your mistakes. Just have a go... you don't necessarily have to post it in the first instants.
Now that you've learned these top ten tips, you’ve taken the first steps to becoming a Smart Phone filmmaker. With the right mindset and a bit of creativity, you can produce stunning videos with just with your phone. Remember, it's easier than you think, and every video you make is an opportunity to improve your skills and tell your story in a unique way. So, grab your phone and start filming something that you would be proud of!
For more in-depth Workshops join one of our sessions have a look on our website to how we can help give you the skills you need!
