This document will give you the information you need to make good quality recording on your own using just your cell phone or laptop.

Step 1: Clean your lens

• Oil from our hands and dust easily stick to our phone and computer screens, creating smudges on the lenses. 
• To have the clearest possible image, take a microfiber cloth (like the one that comes with glasses) or a paper towel and wipe your camera down.

Step 2: Lighting

• For good lighting, you can use a window and natural light.
• Position yourself so you’re facing the window and rotate about 45-degrees angle so the light floods into your shot but isn’t directly in front of you which will cause your face to be flat and possibly blown out.

Step 3: Sound

• Typically cell phones and computers have an omnidirectional mic which just means they pick up sounds from all directions, so be aware of other things in the room making sound.
• Televisions, fridges, air conditioning units, and running water can create background static. Try to find a filming location with a minimal amount of background static.
• Set your phone to “do not disturb” so you don’t get any notifications while filming.

Step 4: Framing

• You have to decide which orientation is needed for your video. 
  • Most videos should be shot in a horizontal orientation, unless you are making something specifically for Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook stories.
• Use a background that won’t be distracting to the viewer, like bright paintings, or too boring, like a white wall.
  • Think about adding some dimension by having a bookshelf or other furniture that doesn’t make the background totally flat. 
• Instead of holding your phone while filming, you can also use bins, or any solid household items to create a tripod to place your phone on or raise up your computer.
  • A stable shot will create a more professional look.
• Make sure your eyes are resting on the top third of the frame.
  • Imagine if there were two lines in the frame that create three sections. You want your eyes to be on that top line.

Step 5: Wardrobe

• Don’t wear any clothing with visible brand names or any references to alcohol, drugs, or sex to make sure your video can be enjoyed by everyone.