5 Ways to Improve Video Footage From Your Cell Phone
While it’s a wonderful idea to hire a professional content creator for your social media platforms, sometimes you as a business owner are the only one around to capture a specific moment. As a small business owner doing it all we know how much work you put into everything you do.
That’s why we’ve compiled these 5 tips for shooting video footage from your cell phone.
LIGHT THE SUBJECT
When shooting video footage from your cell phone, ensure your subject is well-lit. If you are struggling to get enough light in your shot, try shooting in a different area that is better lit.
You can also allow outdoor light into your space by opening up blinds or moving the subject closer to the window so you can get more light.
If you must use the flash, that’s okay but try to light the subject as best you can first. If you want to upgrade your video clips, consider hiring a professional videographer. Most videographers offer their own pro lighting kits to light up your subject and the area around the subject to make your footage look incredible.
THINK ABOUT FRAMING
A good rule to follow when framing your shot is to follow photography’s Rule of Thirds. This guideline recommends thinking of your frame in terms of thirds. Imagine your frame, divide your frame into thirds both horizontally and vertically. Place your subject either on the 1st third or the 2nd third to make your composition more interesting.
You can use your horizontal guidelines to decide where you’d like your horizon line or skyline. Read more about the Rule of Thirds on PetaPixel’s complete guide here.
CONSIDER SOUND QUALITY
What are you filming? If you are filming a quick and easy TikTok, you might be happy with the sound quality of your phone. If you are attempting to shoot something more complex, it is a good idea to hire a sound recordist to capture high-quality audio for your project.
If shooting video on your phone is your best option, don’t muffle the microphone by placing your fingers over it. Try to avoid outdoor situations where there is a lot of noise from the wind or from the highway.
CHECK OUT OUR BLOG: How to Hire and Work With A Videographer [A Step-By-Step Guide For Business Owners]
CHOOSE YOUR FOCAL POINT
Most newer smartphones allow you to select your subject by choosing the focal point of the video or photograph. Use your finger to click on your subject’s face (or the area you want to see in focus) in the viewfinder.
Some cell phones allow you to change the F-stop of the photograph when in Portrait mode which helps add depth to your shot and can also help blur out the background of your photo. You can learn more about F-stops on your camera here.
Need Help Navigating A Complex Video Project? Read our Blog: How Hiring A Film Producer Can Help You Create Digital Content For Your Business
KEEP IT SMOOTH
When shooting video, remember to keep your phone or recording device as static as possible. Avoid shaking or jerky motions. If you have shaky hands, try stabilizing your elbows on a table, chair, or other flat service. You can also try to stabilize your elbows against your torso. To pan, turn your whole body.
It’s a good idea to practice your camera motions before recording, if possible. Don’t worry about stopping the camera at the perfect time, you can always edit the clip later to remove any footage at the end that you don’t want to include in your final product.
READY TO CAPTURE GREAT DIGITAL VIDEO CONTENT FOR YOUR BUSINESS?
Video production can be affordable and pain-free.
The videographers, video production, and editing experts at Spivey Media (based in Norman, Oklahoma) are ready to help you meet your business marketing goals and see a return on your marketing investment.
We create short- and long-form video content for your brand or business to boost trust and engagement with your target audience and increase conversions.
Give us a call today and tell us about your ideas and goals and we will get to work making them happen!