Video Production In Your Pocket (Cargo Pants Recommended)
I thought this might be a good opportunity to address some comments and questions that I received during the Nonprofit Storytelling Conference a few weeks ago about video production. Here are a few below:
“I want to learn some basics of what I could do on a cell for some shorter videos when I don't have the budget for a full-blown professional production.”
-Meredith
“I'd love to know some tips and tricks for designing and shooting quality looking video with our phones and try to maximize our budget!!”
-Katie
“Do you have a preferred list of equipment/software/apps you can share?”
-Ian
The follow recommendations are more tool related, but if you want to learn about what makes a great fundraising video or how to shoot better interviews, check out my previous blog posts by clicking the text.
Be Smarter Than Your Smartphone
Here are 7 basic approaches for you to avoid what I think are the easiest to solve when to shooting with your not-so-smart-smartphone:
TECHNICAL INTERRUPTIONS? — Getting interrupted in the middle of shooting something important is a big No-No! Switch your phone to airplane mode and stay focused on shooting. :)
LOW MEMORY? — Erase your dog videos (yes, I have too many too) and try shooting in 1080p. I know people will say 4K is incredible, but let’s get serious, who wants to see a low memory warning and potentially loose the next shot?
LOW POWER? — Use a battery bank. Super critical, and if you get the kind that can also charge your laptop (USB-C), it is a worthy investment, especially since it will save your butt at conferences.
SHAKY FOOTAGE? — There are a couple of ways to solve this problem, but briefly I would say the following. For longer interviews, use a tripod. For moving b-roll I would still keep the tripod attached to the smartphone. The added mass helps keeps the shot steady.
BLOWN-OUT HIGHLIGHTS, DARK SHADOWS? — Avoid harsh lighting conditions such as direct sunlight. Try shooting in ambient light. Also, learn to how to lock your exposure.
POOR SOUND QUALITY? — Add external microphones. “Lavaliers” & “shotguns” are good for interviews. See Download For Details.
LIMITED OPTICS? — Use lens by Moment or Olloclip. Long focal lengths are good for interviews. Wider ones help capture context very well, in situations where you might be shooting b-roll, or follow shots.
What Do I Need To Buy?
This question comes up a lot, and there is no shortage of products out there to help you make better videos. But honestly, don’t waste money on things you don’t need. Be smarter first—see above—and then get specific about what you’re trying to accomplish.
I put together a PDF which includes recommended gear kits to match specific budgets and scenarios, tips for shooting, and links to online resources like music, stock footage, and more. Just enter your info below and it will be sent to you via email. You’ll also join a monthly newsletter about video production, storytelling, and nonprofits doing amazing things! Enjoy!
:)
-Reuben