How do I increase video quality on my phone? 5 tips to take your video to the next level

Cody Godwin, USA TODAY
·2 min read

Many of us use our smartphones to capture video and pictures as precious memories. My phone's library houses almost 18,000 of my digital memories, so it's no surprise that it takes up most of the space on my device.

As our little pocket cameras became more powerful, their quality and versatility began to rival and replace the handheld cameras we used to carry around. Smartphone video cameras are pretty foolproof and easy to use, but there are a few things to keep in mind when filming so the results are amazing every time.

Watch this video to see how to shoot better video on your smartphone.

Tips for better cell phone video

  1. Film horizontally, not vertically.

I know, I know, this is very controversial. My argument is this: What is the shape of your TV screen? Computer screen? How about the screen at the movie theater? Horizontal.

Plus, horizontal video also gives you more room to fit everything and everyone in the frame at the same time.

  1. Make sure there is good lighting.

Good lighting is essential for good video, and it's much easier than you think to get it right.

It's this simple: you want the light to shine on what you're filming. So consider having the subject face a window, use a small light or use the flash on your smartphone to properly light your video.

  1. Don't use the zoom on the phone.

Many smartphones have multiple lenses on the back, each capable of a different depth. This is useful, but when you're filming, and the phone switches from one lens to another, the picture jumps. Instead, try zooming in with your body, by which I mean physically moving closer to whatever you're filming.

  1. Download a third-party app.

Third-party video apps can provide options like those found on handheld cameras, such as adjusting the white balance or changing the focus and exposure. Plus, some have a super smooth zoom feature that surpasses your smartphone's digital zoom.

  1. Don't let your finger ruin the shot!

Sometimes our fingertips like to photobomb the videos we're filming, so check the corners to make sure they're not making a sneaky cameo.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Improve cell phone video quality with these 5 easy tips