6 smartphone tips and tricks to bring out the vlogger in you

The first few days of the new academic year are always exciting. In fact, besides the anxiety that comes along with settling into the new course, they are often memorable and worth cherishing for a lifetime. So, if you’re someone who looks at documenting everything in the form of photos or video logs, we have news for you. You don’t have to put away your pocket money for a brand-new DSLR (of course, there’s no harm in getting one!). If you own a smartphone, you’re pretty much good to get started with your very own channel. Wondering how? Read on for some quick camera tips for vlogging with a phone.   

Top tips for vlogging with a phone

1. Choose the right peripherals

An advantage of vlogging with your mobile phone is you don’t have to worry about splashing on heavy equipment. Most smartphone peripherals are reasonably priced and can do the trick just as well as a professional camera. Investing in an external microphone, ring light, mobile tripod or gimbal can help add stability and finesse to your vlogs and give you a stunning output, no matter your phone.  

2. Switch to airplane mode 

While this may seem like a no-brainer, most of us forget to disconnect while shooting using our smartphones. And more often than not, this leads to loss of crucial footage or disturbance in-between shots. Keeping your phone in airplane mode can help you shoot seamlessly and additionally save you some battery life.  

3. Use the horizontal orientation 

While a lot of ‘mini vlogs’ today are reels, it is always a good idea to shoot in a horizontal orientation to give your footage a more cinematic finish. And, of course, nothing really ruins a video clip more than the two vertical black bars.

ALSO READ: Top Instagram Reels tips and tricks you need to know

4. Make use of timelapse, hyperlapse and other built-in modes 

Whether you’re an Android user or simply someone looking for some vlogging tips for iPhones, there are multiple modes available on your smartphone today that can enhance the final output of your vlog. iOS users can even vlog with cinematic mode for more professional-looking shots.

5. Use gridlines, rule of thirds to frame better 

Once you’re comfortable with the orientation of your phone camera, don’t hesitate to bring in the trusty gridlines that ensure your subject is framed well. Further, it is advisable to use the rule of thirds and place your subject on the left or right third of your screen for a better visual result.  

6. Prefer editing on a laptop

It might seem tempting to edit on your smartphone with the availability of various software at your fingertips but consider editing footage on a laptop or desktop for precision and better-equipped editing tools.  

And just like that, you can capture all your good times without investing in heavy-duty equipment. Try them out and thank us later.