In the age of TikTok and Instagram, it’s almost expected that you be able to churn out high-quality videos on your mobile device. But if you’re only starting out, chances are you don’t have the time or expertise to learn all the tricks of the trade. Luckily, we’ve got five tips that can help you take your videos from amateur hour to Hollywood quality in no time.
Start with Good Lighting
Good lighting is key when it comes to making any video look cinematic. If you’re shooting indoors, make sure to use natural light as much as possible. And if you’re shooting outdoors, make sure to choose a location with lots of natural light available so that your subject isn't too dark or washed out.
Use an External Microphone
Mobile devices often come with built-in microphones, but they don't always capture sound well—especially if there's a lot of background noise. Investing in an external microphone will ensure that your audio is crisp and clear without any unwanted static or distortions.
We here at the festival are big fans of the BOYA directional microphone has a low cost way to get started
Stabilize Your Camera
Using some sort of camera stabilization tool (like a tripod) is essential for creating professional-looking video footage on your mobile device. Handheld sh
ots may look cool in certain situations but having a steady shot will make all the difference when it comes to making your video look high-end and cinematic.
Films like the Bourne series really pushed this handheld style. Be mindful that there is a difference between making it shaky on purpose and your film looking messy
Keep It Simple
Don't try to cram too many elements into one shot—it can take away from the overall aesthetic of your video and make it look cluttered or chaotic instead of professional and polished. Instead, focus on one element at a time and keep things simple for maximum impact!
Edit Your Footage
Editing is an essential part of creating cinematic video footage on a mobile device, as it allows you to remove any unnecessary elements and add special effects that will bring your footage to life. There are plenty of free editing apps available for both iOS and Android devices—just be sure to play around until you find one that works best for your needs!
Remember, you don't know what you have until you look at it in the edit. You will be surprised how music, and slight colour changes can bring your footage to like
With these five tips in hand, you'll be well on your way to creating some seriously stunning videos on your mobile device! Keep experimenting with different tools and techniques until you find what works best for you—and just remember that practice makes perfect! With enough practice, anyone can learn how to produce cinematic video footage like a pro!