Tips for Shooting Mobile Video
Audio
- When talking, get closer to the camera so the mic can pick you up.
- Consider using a microphone.
- Make sure you are in a quiet environment.
Lighting
- Use natural lighting from a window to light your subject (this is sometimes called a “key light”).
- Diffused light is often better to light subjects than harsh/direct light.
- When a window is not available in the room you are shooting in, consider using a lamp.
- When shooting outdoors, use the sun as the key light rather than have the light behind the subject.
Video
- Turn your phone horizontally (“landscape” orientation) to film
- Use the rear-facing camera on phone for higher resolution.
- Keep the shot steady w/ tripod.
- Position the camera at eye level.
- Composition – use the “Rule of Thirds.”
- Manually set exposure and focus.
- Get “B-roll shots” (additional footage) to help in the editing process. Mix up the type of shots (wide, close-ups, and consider adding movement).