Five Tips for Capturing Better Pictures and Videos For Your Digital Marketing Efforts

There is certainly a (wonderful) time and place to use nice A/V equipment. We are thankful for it and for those who operate it so well! But, what about when you receive a last-minute assignment, have a project that you can’t afford to spend a lot of energy or time on, or have a situation that you need to be scrappy in? 

Working in digital marketing in 2024 means most of us have a simple yet impactful tool at our disposal: our smartphones. Below are five tips on how to best use your smartphone to capture the photo or video content you need for your church.

1. Landscape and Portrait 

Make sure to capture content in both orientations. While it’s most natural to think about taking vertical photos or videos, make sure to turn your phone on its side every once in a while, too. If you are capturing a photo that will primarily be viewed on a computer (versus mobile), make sure to take your photo in landscape orientation. This might include blog post featured images, email headers, and YouTube thumbnails.

2. Clean and Tidy Backgrounds

Be cognizant of what’s in the background of photos and videos. Do you see an overflowing garbage can or a distracting restroom sign? In today’s visually driven world, the background of your photos and videos can significantly impact the overall impression they create. 

Before you hit the record or capture button, take a moment to evaluate the environment. Look for distractions or clutter and either move them out of the way, or reframe things by adjusting where you stand to capture the content. Also, opt for backgrounds that are clean and clutter-free. Plain walls, natural settings, or minimalistic furniture can provide a great canvas that keeps the focus where it should stay - on your subject. 

3. Sharp, Clear Visuals 

The most compelling photos and videos have sharp, focused professional-looking content. Even when you’re capturing a candid moment on your phone or gathering bits of video content here and there - ensuring your subject is in focus makes all the difference. Remember, the clearer your visuals, the stronger the impact they will have on your audience. Below are a few tips for capturing in-focus content. 

• Lock Auto-Focus - Don’t rely on yourself manually focusing on the subject each time you take a video or photo. Program your phone’s settings to automatic focus before you start recording or snapping pictures. This maintains sharpness throughout your shoot.
• Use a Tripod - Stabilizing your camera reduces the risk of motion blur and helps keep your subject in focus.
• Monitor Your Lighting - Good lighting not only improves overall video/image quality, but also enhances focus. Ensure your subject is well-lit to avoid issues with focus.
• Review and Adjust - After taking photos or recording video, review your content. If your footage isn’t sharp or your photos are blurred, take the time to understand why and adjust your approach for next time.

4. Look for the Best Lighting

Not every environment will come with the best lighting, so do your best to get there early, scout out a few locations, prep in advance and do any necessary setup work in advance. 

Instead of positioning your subject with a window behind them, have them face it and use the light to brighten their face. Natural light is often the best choice, but avoid locations that might cast a harsh shadow on someone's face. Early morning or late afternoon provides softer light that can clearly and naturally illuminate your subject and background. If using lamps or lights, position them in a way that minimizes harsh shadows.

Good lighting will enhance your background and the overall quality of an image or video! 

5. The Importance of Clear Audio

Capturing great audio for your smartphone videos is essential for delivering the best viewer experience. Below are some tips for capturing great audio for your smartphone videos. 

• Location, Location, Location - Choose the right environment by finding a quiet location with minimal background noise. Avoid high-traffic hallways, A/C units that come on and off, rooms next to a large crowd and the hum of a busy highway in the background.
• Microphone Support - Use an external, directional microphone like a shotgun mic that records sound coming from a specific direction which minimizes background noise. Adding a windscreen to your microphone will help reduce capturing wind noises if recording outside.
• Helpful Tips - Coaching your subjects by providing a few good speaking habits will go a long way when recording interview-styled content. Encourage your subjects to speak clearly and at a moderate pace with clear articulation. This will help with overall sound quality and make editing your video content easier. 
• Distraction Free - Before you begin recording on your phone, turn on airplane mode. This prevents notifications, calls, texts and more from interrupting your video.

In the fast-paced world of digital marketing, there are times when comms teams need to be quick, efficient and resourceful. Thankfully, capturing great content for your church with just your smartphone is now easier than ever before.

Your phone can be a powerful tool for gathering impactful photos and videos without a need for elaborate equipment. Continue practicing and improving over time, do your best with what you have, and embrace what is possible in telling your church’s distinct story. Looking for support to continue growing your digital ministry strategy? Let’s connect!