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.
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
Avoid
Lightsource from side
Good
Lightsource 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.
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:
The CORRECT way:
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.
Avoid:
- Refrigerators
- Fans
- Air Conditioners
- High Traffic Areas
We are grateful to University of Minnesota - Printing Services for sharing this 6 Tips resource (https://printing.umn.edu/video/diy-mobile-video.html)
