Quick Guide: IPhone Video Creation for Social Media

Having recently attended a video workshop with Robin Creative Media I wanted to give a brief overview of my key learnings and summarise some top tips. You can make relatively professional videos at home which is great as video is on the rise. With 1 billion people watching videos on the web, it's great to know that videos can be made simply without costing a fortune. We all see people with their IPhones out all the time (I'm the same) but has anyone really shown you how to use it effectively?

The workshop I attended with Robin, did just that and here is a very brief summary of the tips I will adopt when next filming:

1) Be aware of the light. Think where the light is and as the camera wo/man put your back to it, ensuring the light is behind you. Never film into the sun.

2) Think location. The setting for your filming is key. Don't have a busy background as it will distract the audience. Keep it simple and don't back people up against a wall.

3) Film using your phone in landscape. So, not how you hold it when on the phone but rotate your phone, as seen in the main picture. (NB: Portrait is suitable for instagram stories) 

4) Leave a pause before your subject starts 'acting' or capturing your shots. The same at the end, which allows you space to edit seamlessly. Keep the IPhone/IPad close to you when filming or use a tripod to keep it steady.

5) Utilise the functions of your phone. Whilst in video mode, press and hold down the screen to activate AE/AF lock, which locks the screen in focus. Double tap your screen for best exposure. You get a little sun icon showing.

6) Use different types of shot. Wide ones, panning, close ups, different angles and even time-lapse. The editing suite can then stitch them together to make an interesting showreel. 

7) Think about sound quality. Despite 85% of FB videos being watched with no-sound, it's great to have good sound quality when filming. You can use a remote microphone or record the sound on a separate camera before dropping into the editing suite alongside your video. You can add subtitles in at time of editing too.

8) Frame your shot. There is a technical term for this and you should adopt the rule of thirds. For the novice, I'd recommend positioning your camera at eye level without leaving too much space above or below the subject's head. The subject can be centre stage for testimonial type shots or 1/3 into the frame from either side.

9) Think about music to accompany your video. There are lots of royalty free music sites and this can really change the dynamic of the film. 

10) Plan your videos for your channels. Videos length for social media: Instagram- up to 60 seconds (stories 15 seconds), Twitter- 2 mins 20 secs, Facebook- endless (but remember your audience and how long they will focus)

So just a few tips to help make better vidoes at home. Next job, practice practice and more practice. Good Luck!