Phone video tips: shoot smoother, clearer videos
Phones shoot 4K video that rivals cameras. Learn settings, stabilization, audio and lighting for professional phone video.
Phones are powerful video tools for social media, vlogs and quick client content when used with care.
Settings
- 4K at 24 or 30 fps for most content
- 60 fps for action and slow motion
- Lock exposure and focus by long-pressing on the subject
- Turn on HDR video if your phone supports it, or off for consistent color with mixed edits
Stabilize
Built-in stabilization is good, but a phone gimbal or small tripod makes footage much smoother. Walk with bent knees.
Use the main lens
The main wide lens has the best sensor and low-light performance. Use the telephoto in good light only.
Audio
Built-in mics capture everything around you. A wireless lavalier or small shotgun mic dramatically improves voice quality.
Light
Face a window or use a small LED light. Avoid backlighting the subject unless intentional.
Cinematic mode
Simulated shallow depth of field can be lovely for short clips but may fail on complex edges.
Edit
CapCut, VN, LumaFusion or DaVinci Resolve for iPad allow pro-level editing on mobile.
