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).