Taking Video and Photo: Tips for shooting from home

Owned by Hannah Hein
Last updated: Jan 26, 2024 by Erica Blust
1 min read


Position

  • Shoot horizontal (landscape orientation)
    • Make sure no objects block the camera
  • Background
    • Be aware of what's in it
  • Zoom
    • Zoom with your feet, not phone. Zooming with the camera causes quality loss.

Camera

  • Take video or photo with a smartphone

DO NOT use a computer camera unless that's your only option. 

Stabilize

  • Use a tripod or rest your phone on something flat
  • Avoid moving around
  • Avoid fast moments

Audio

  • Avoid background noises if possible
  • Stay inside (avoid wind noise)
  • Don't touch the camera, as the mic will pick up those sounds
  • Use a mic if you can, like iPhone headphones or AirPods

Lighting

  • Avoid harsh light or dark shadows
  • Keep consistent lighting if possible

Simple how-to take photos demo