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Video

6 Tips for DIY Mobile Video

We understand that getting quality video during a pandemic can be a challenge.
Here are six helpful tips for your talent to record it themselves.

Tip 1: Video Settings

Recording at 4K allows the video editor to crop, which is preferred. If 4K is not available, please select 1080p HD.

iPhone Settings

  • Go to Settings
  • Select Camera
  • Select Record Video
  • Select 4K at 30fps if available, otherwise 1080p HD at 30fps will work as well.

Android Settings

  • Open camera app
  • Click video option
  • Find your settings
  • Select UHD (or 4K) if available, otherwise select FHD at 30 fps.
Video Setting Animated GIF

Use a tripod

Tip 2: Stabilize

It is very important to have a tripod or something to hold your phone while you record.

If you do not have a tripod for your phone, check out these DIY Phone Tripod ideas.

Things that work well:

  • Paper Cups
  • Binder Clips & Rubberbands
  • Old Plastic Gift Cards

Tip 3: Lighting

Make sure your lighting is from in front of you or to the side.

Lightsource from behind

light from behind
Avoid

Lightsource from side

light from side
Good

Lightsource from front

light from front
Good

Tip 4: Use Rear Camera

Your rear camera is the primary camera and will give you the best resolution. Since you can’t see it as you are recording, you may need to try a couple tests to get it framed correctly.

Use Rear Camera
Don't Use Front Camera


Tip 5: TURN YOUR PHONE!

Professional video is horizontal — not vertical. Please make sure to turn your phone so you are taking horizontal video.

The WRONG way:

vertical video

The CORRECT way:

horizontal video

Tip 6: Sound

Do your best to find a quiet place to record with minimal background noice. Listen for anything in the room that hums or clicks. It isn't always possible to avoid background noise, so if needed, add a few seconds of silence at the end of your video which the editor can sample to remove that sound.

sound

Avoid:

  • Refrigerators
  • Fans
  • Air Conditioners
  • High Traffic Areas


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