Pivo’s 10 Tips for Vlogging with Your Phone
But starting your own vlog doesn't have to be difficult or complicated! No need for fancy cameras, all you need is your smartphone and a proper phone mount or tripod. Follow our tips for vlogging with your phone and become an expert content creator in no time.
Step-by-step smartphone vlogging checklist
1. Switch to airplane mode
Eliminate distractions by stopping any notifications from ruining your shot.
2. Properly orient your smartphone
Are you shooting a TikTok or a YouTube video? Make sure you're in the right orientation for the platform.
3. Do test recordings
Ever record a whole video and realize something was off? Get the perfect recording the first time by doing a test. Make sure everything is set and ready to go.
4. Use an external microphone
Don't limit yourself to the capabilities of your phone's microphone. Utilize an external mic (preferably a wireless mic) so you can speak comfortably without straining your voice to be heard by your viewers.
5. Use proper lighting
Find the perfect natural lighting or create your own with some lighting equipment. From torch lights to ring lights, there's plenty of affordable options!
6. Refine it in post
Even the perfect take needs the right context. Edit your video to the way you envisioned precisely and with care. Video editing may seem difficult at first but the more you do it, the better you'll get.
7. Rule of thirds
Place yourself in the right or left third of the screen. Not every shot needs to be shot front and center. Play with various positions in the camera to make your shots have variety and expanded scenery.
8. Check your camera settings
Is your camera in the highest resolution? Make sure the setting will give you the highest quality possible. 4K footage will give you flexibility during video editing to use your film as you please without sacrificing video quality.
9. Have fun with it
Remember, you're not talking to a camera. You're talking to your audience. Shake out the nerves and be yourself. Your audience will love you more for it.
10. Use Pivo
Some of these tips seem a little complicated? Pivo simplifies each vlogging tip with features perfect for every vlogger. With Auto Tracking and Presets, enjoy the freedom of recording and capturing hands-free video content with your very own AI-powered tracking smartphone mount. Simplify your content creation process, easily include effects to engage your viewers, and be on your way to becoming a successful vlogger.
Happy vlogging!
Frequently asked questions about vlogging with a phone
Can I start vlogging with only a smartphone?
Yes. The article recommends starting with a smartphone and a stable phone mount or tripod instead of waiting for expensive camera equipment.
Should I use airplane mode while recording a vlog?
Airplane mode can prevent calls and notifications from interrupting a take. Turn it on before recording when you do not need a live connection.
Should a smartphone vlog be vertical or horizontal?
Choose the orientation for the platform where you plan to publish. Vertical video suits platforms built around portrait viewing, while many long-form videos use horizontal framing.
Do I need an external microphone for smartphone vlogging?
An external microphone is useful when the phone microphone cannot capture your voice clearly. The article recommends a wireless microphone so you can speak naturally and move comfortably.
How can I improve the quality of a phone vlog?
Make a short test recording, check your lighting and camera settings, use a clear microphone, compose with the rule of thirds, and refine the footage during editing.
How does Pivo help with smartphone vlogging?
Pivo uses Auto Tracking and customizable Presets to keep a creator in frame while recording hands-free with a smartphone.