Seeing established vloggers in action can be pretty intimidating. They have fancy video cameras, bluetooth microphones, tripods, specialty lighting and more. If you are looking to start vlogging or are considering higher quality video content, it may seem as if you need to invest serious cash.
To start vlogging, however, you only need a computer with a webcam and video editing software. For even simpler vlogging, a simple smartphone with a link to YouTube will do fine. Yet, a few additional accessories can enhance your mobile videos and enable you to appear as a serious vlogger contender.
Five Smartphone Gadgets for Vlogging
PhotoJojo Cell Phone Lenses (ERP $20-$50): A quick connect lens system for all smartphone users. Take video (or pictures) with the fish-eye, wide angle, telephoto, or macro lens for a visually interesting video product. Comes with rings so it is easy to switch from one to the other. Also consider the Olloclip specifically for the iPhone.
iRig Microphone (ERP $59.99): A traditional microphone plugs into the headphone jack on your iPhone. Use it to provide better sound when interviewing guests, especially if there is background noise like at a conference. It’s also great for recording podcasts. The microphone comes in a pouch for easy transporting. An alternative is the iRig Mic Cast.
iStabilizer (ERP $29.99): A small tripod stand for any smartphone that can be twisted and bent in a variety of ways. It’s perfect for self recording because you don’t have to rely on someone holding the camera. Bend the legs to grip it on a variety of objects for great (and often necessary) camera angles. Check out the iStabilizer Monopod and Dolly for other neat ways to shoot video.
External Battery (ESP $59.99): Shooting video can be a drain on your camera’s batteries so having an external battery pack to charge your phone is essential if you don’t have an outlet nearby. Visit your mobile carrier for suggestions on the best external battery for your phone or do a quick search on Amazon to see what is compatible and has the best reviews.
Gorilla Torch (ERP $29.99): A light solution with an adjustable arm will enable to you angle that light in a variety of directions. Angling light will brighten your video subject, a room or yourself. Just like a photographer angles light for the perfect picture, this technique is essential for videos too. With its battery power and eight inch length, the Gorilla Torch is pretty portable. Also consider traditional adjustable desk lamps too for an at-home solution.
Mobile Vlogging Tips
- Make sure you shoot your video horizontally. It will make your final video product not have those large black strips down the sides.
- Make sure you either have a smartphone with a lot of storage space or consistently download and delete your videos on the phone. Nothing worse than doing a video interview and your phone stops recording because you don’t have any more storage.
- Purchase a fun bag in which to store all of these cool video accessories. It is easy to grab-and-go when you have a vision for the perfect video!
Photo © Charlene @charchronicles.
Need more recommendations? See the 6th Annual Type-A Parent Gift Guide for Bloggers!
Special thanks to Therapon Skin Health for sponsoring this year’s gift guide. Be sure to like Therapon on Facebook and follow @theraponskin on Twitter.
Five Gifts for the Mobile Vlogger - Gadgets for Video Blogging on Your Smartphone,
Charlene used to write laws and regulations for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Now she writes whatever she wants in style, health, travel, technology and parenting. It's a lot more fun and has a lot less whereas.
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