Diffusion is your best friend when you're shooting yourself or other people. It will decrease the hard lines and shadows that come from the other popular LED lights that are on the market.
The only down side is that this option is a cheapo... so it's not as reliable.
Meh: Ring Light
I'll be the first to say that I'm not a huge fan of ring lights. I find them to be really harsh, which can create a lot of annoying lines and shadows. Make sure it's not right next to your face - move it as far away as you can.
This is why I recommend a freestanding option like this so that you can move it around more.
Best: Window (Pictured Here!)
Sit in front of a window allowing it to "light" your face. Ever wonder why so many people sit in their cars to record videos? It may be the ADHD, or it may be the fact that this is a great flattering option. I often just sit in front of the window in my living room for the same effect!
LIGHTING
Avoid those cheapy Amazon wireless mics...please...
They are finicky and do not capture good sound quality at all. I prefer to go with nothing over these, unless I'm in an area with a lot of background noise.
RØDE wireless mics are a solid choice if you need more flexibility, especially for interviews or recording someone away from the phone. Just know that, like all RF (radio-frequency) wireless mics, they can be temperamental—signal interference happens, it's wise to have a backup plan.
*I'm currently trying out the DJI version of these, which I am loving!
Best: RØDE Shotgun Mic
The RØDE Helix Go is the most stable option, giving you reliable audio without the dropouts that can happen with wireless mics. The tradeoff? You’re a bit more tethered to your phone, but if consistency matters more than mobility, it’s a solid choice.
SOUND
A note on trustworthy brands:
When it doubt, go with any well known, trustworthy brand. IMO, they all produce similar, reliable quality. Most have some sort of warranty, and it's much easier to troubleshoot issues when they don't come from a random Alibaba importer.
A note on cables:
Most of these mics will have a connection point that looks like a typical headphone jack. While the size is exactly the same, the functionality is not. You'll need to get a cable that is described as a 3.5mm TRS to (your phone charging cable type. Most likely USBC or Lightening) Sometimes, a typical USBC cable from your mic to your phone won't work either, (as in USBC to USBC) as the functionality of your mic is only cabable of being charged by said cable, not transmitting sound. It's super annoying and not clear, I know!
A cheap tripod is a great low-commitment option—easy to use and good enough to get the job done. Just know they can be clunky to travel with and don’t set up as quickly or smoothly as higher-end options.
You can also find some on amazon that include a ring light attached. Again, great starter option! But I think unnecessarily complicated to figure out too.
Best: DJI Osmo 6
The DJI Osmo 6 is a pricier option, but if you’re walking and talking, it’s the best way to get smooth, stable footage. Its electronic gimbal keeps your phone level, reducing shaky video, and since DJI is a solid, reliable brand, it’s worth spending a little more for something that works consistently and is easy to use.
(And by a little more... I mean... It's under $150)
This little guy is my new favorite gadget. If you can find a smooth surface close to where you're filming...gold mine! It's very small and packable, your phone just pops onto its strong magnet.
I'd say the only cons are 1. it only works if there's a smooth surface (but there is almost always a window, a fridge, a desktop screen, etc) and 2. If you don't keep it in a contained box, it will try to auto-suction to anything in its vicinity. It's an electronic piece, so it's loud and super annoying.
Avoid the electronic
Tripods | Stabilization
Diffusion is your best friend when you're shooting yourself or other people. It will decrease the hard lines and shadows that come from the other popular LED lights that are on the market.
The only down side is that this option is a cheapo... so it's not as reliable.
Good: Ring Light
I'll be the first to say that I'm not a huge fan of ring lights. I find them to be really harsh, which can create a lot of annoying lines and shadows. Make sure it's not right next to your face - move it as far away as you can.
This is why I recommend a freestanding option like this so that you can move it around more.
Best: Window
Sit in front of a window allowing it to "light" your face. Ever wonder why so many people sit in their cars to record videos? It may be the ADHD, or it may be the fact that this is a great flattering option. I often just sit in front of the window in my living room for the same effect!
LIGHTING
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The Best Video Equipment for Your Phone
No overkill, just what works.
The right tools don’t have to be expensive or complicated—they just need to work. Whether you’re filming on the go, setting up a stable shot, or making sure your audio is clear, these are the essentials I actually recommend (and use myself).