> ## Content Index > Fetch the complete content index at: https://interhacktives.mymagic.page/llms.txt > Use this file to discover other available public pages before exploring further. # Mobile video journalism - Part I: Getting started - URL: https://interhacktives.mymagic.page/mobile-video-journalism-part-i-getting-started/ - Published: 2020-03-12T13:06:19.000Z - Updated: 2020-03-12T13:06:19.000Z - Description: Are you making your first steps onto the #mojo journey? Follow this series for a practical list of tips! - Author: ioanna - Tags: How-To, Multimedia, News, Tips, #Migrated-1793717950415, #wp, #wp-post, #Import 2026-11-03 14:59 Online journalists use their mobile phone cameras for lightweight, quick, and flexible video shooting. This series will give you an introduction to mobile video journalism, with practical advice and common pitfalls to avoid. We will start with a basic list of things to consider for your first recording. ## Mobile phone vs DSLR Mobile phone cameras these days are superb - The music video for Lady Gaga's latest single, [“Stupid Love,”](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5L6xyaeiV58&ref=interhacktives.mymagic.page) was shot entirely on the iPhone 11 Pro. Phones are limited by physics, though; their thin size means that they can’t achieve a good depth of field (DOF). Depth of field is the distance between the nearest and the farther objects in a scene that are in focus; that is, they appear sharp and clear. DSLR cameras give you more control on this, although there are ways for mobile phones to achieve a [similar effect](https://www.engadget.com/2019/12/17/google-ai-pixel-4-portrait-mode/?guccounter=1&guce%5Freferrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce%5Freferrer%5Fsig=AQAAAEfHRfxbOhUSZvB2cU4F2M31oQ1WcSBeHexykgz5oVTQ4f%5FTAcBtNeCJ-vnUdr1MKTlyXT%5FecgFBo7w%5FG1ydDNuiwkvmGLCW4eHRC5S0pyDLb1-QsxeUOoJLjebcqqzxmk684aWLZi8OYzzqhSkYTZJT72sMh%5FwrulXVf4K6OeUK&ref=interhacktives.mymagic.page). However, it is better to get started in video journalism with mobile, master the fundamentals, and continue to a more powerful kit later. Invest in a mobile phone with a [good camera](https://www.techradar.com/uk/news/best-cameraphone?ref=interhacktives.mymagic.page), as well as enough memory and battery power (a power bank is also a good idea, see below). ![The image shows a DSLR camera being in use on a street, but a person wearing a beanie hat. ](http://www.interhacktives.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/dslr.jpg) DSLR cameras offer more depth of field control. ## Manual focus and exposure A camera set on automatic focus might try to adjust the focus away from your target object. For example, it might respond to passing traffic and focus on a moving car instead of your interviewee. Similarly, automatic exposure might try to adjust the brightness, especially if you are filming in an environment with varying levels of light. Opt for manual settings and lock them once you get them right! To do so, press or press and hold on the area of your screen where you want to focus. A circle or square and an AF/AE lock symbol should appear briefly, along with a slider to adjust the exposure. Third-party apps will often offer more control than the built-in camera app, such as shutter speed and ISO settings. ![](http://www.interhacktives.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/rsz_2camera_apps.png) Different camera apps allow for varying levels of customisation. ## Airplane mode on Unlike other cameras, smartphones are also *phones*, so your video recording could get interference from incoming calls, texts and other notifications. Set the airplane mode on for peace of mind. ## Protect your camera lens There are a few options for protecting your camera from damage, such as anti-scratch film guards, tethered protectors and slider covers. Also, make sure the lens is clean of dirt before recording, and have tissues on standby. ## Power bank Shooting video consumes a lot of battery; especially if you need to have the brightness high, too. Top up with a power bank - and don’t forget your charger. ## Tripods and gimbals Although editing tools can stabilise shaky footage, it is best to shoot good quality video in the first place. Tripods come in all shapes and sizes, from traditional camera systems to small portable gizmos with beady legs that you can wrap around trees and fences. They don’t even need to be *tripods*, there are *monopods* that can curl like a snake, extend like a selfie stick or act as a hand stabiliser. If you are on the go, a [gimbal](https://www.omnicoreagency.com/best-smartphone-gimbal-stabilizers/?ref=interhacktives.mymagic.page) is a wonderful piece of technology that mechanically and digitally stabilises your recording. It can even follow an object or person you focus on to keep it in view! ![](http://www.interhacktives.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/03/rsz_phone_on_tripod.jpg) Small portable tripods can come very handy. ## Sound The phone’s built-in microphone should ideally be the last resort - and the mic on your earphones the second to last. A good choice for interviews are [lavalier microphones](https://www.podcastinsights.com/best-lavalier-microphones/?ref=interhacktives.mymagic.page), which are small in size and can clip on clothing. The downside is that you will often need to untie the Gordian knot, especially if you have more than one of them in your bag. Unless you opt for wireless, which is also more expensive. Shotgun mics are another good option, as they pick up sound from a targeted source, although they can be more intimidating to interviewees because they are more prominent (which is something that applies to all visible equipment). And of course, there is always the choice of the “journalistic style” handheld mics. ## Press record! Just because forgetting to press rec and losing an important piece of footage is almost like a rite of passage for beginner journalists, it doesn't mean it needs to happen to you to! Save yourself from heartbreak and press (tap) that button. And don't forget to switch to video mode. I once very confidently recorded an interview, only to realise all I had was a photo. Fortunately the person was nice enough to do a retake! Until the next time, happy recording! Next: Video frame composition