Indispensable: a New York Times guide to shooting smartphone videos

April 16, 2018

[READ] The New York Times publishes a guide for smartphone video beginners. Here are 5 of the most important tips to remember... before you goin depth with our tutorials !

1. "Zoom in with your feet".

Never use a smartphone zoom. It's a digital zoom that degrades image quality. The New York Times formula is clear: if you need to get close to your subject, nothing beats your feet.

2. "Keep both hands on the phone".

"It may seem rudimentary, but it makes a difference. Most smartphones already have an effective stabilization system. But by using both hands, you ensure even better stability." The advice also applies if you're using a grip, like those from Shoulderpod.

3. "Never interrupt your subject during an interview".

Beyond that, ask him to keep looking at the camera for three seconds when he finishes a sequence.
This will make for a much smoother edit!

4. "Technology isn't everything

As the article demonstrates by comparing two film sequences, it's meaning that counts in video: "A video can resonate for reasons other than superb technique (...) Often, a powerful video, even if flawed, will attract us in another way".

5. "Don't hesitate to equip yourself!"

The advantage is that it won't cost you much, but the result will be amazing. For our part, we opted for a Rode microphone(45 euros and puncture-proof), a Shoulderpod grip (37 euros on Amazon) and a tripod (21 euros from the same vendor). If you have to choose just one, go for the microphone.

Ready to get started?

Watch Rémi's video, a checklist "so you don't forget anything before you start filming":

 

To find out more, read the full article in the New York Timesor visit our "Tutorials" section to get started!

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