The smartphone camera is the great equalizer.

It gives any organization — no matter its resources — the ability to efficiently create video content.

More, it’s perfectly suited for producing the kind of video content that resonates today: content that’s authentic, snackable, and mobile-first.

In this article, we share 5 simple tips to get great video using a smartphone:

TIP 1:  STABILIZE YOUR SHOT

Don’t give your viewers a headache.

Use a tripod, a gimbal, even a makeshift stand. Doing so instantly makes your video more watchable.

TIP 2:  COMPOSE YOUR FRAME

Don’t be sloppy.

Take a second to position yourself in the center of the frame or along a rule of thirds line.

Keeping your camera at eye level or just below is a good start.

 

TIP 3:  PICK A NICE BACKDROP

Pay attention to your entire image, not just your subject.

Don’t use a background that’s dull or messy.

Find a neat or appealing background — or tweak the space you have — to achieve a pro look and keep your viewers engaged.

TIP 4:  USE SOFT LIGHTING

Think about lighting.

Don’t sit or stand in front of a window, because your face will be silhouetted.

Instead, use natural light or a soft light source — meaning, one that doesn’t create stark shadows.

And remember to place the light source in front of you.

TIP 5:  GET GOOD AUDIO

Audio is half of your video.

Don’t get drowned out by your surroundings.

Use a lav mic to get clean sound, so your audience can focus on what you are saying.

Smartphones have introduced unprecedented ease into the creation of video content.

With these 5 tips, you can elevate the aesthetic quality and engagement value of your content — and take full advantage of what phone cameras enable.