X

Pocket Filmmaker: How to light smartphone videos like a pro

We look at a few ways to light videos when shooting with your camera phone, including using natural light, reflectors, or a portable and inexpensive light pack. We also examine which settings on your phone can help you get the best images possible.

Joseph Hanlon Special to CNET News
Joe capitalises on a life-long love of blinking lights and upbeat MIDI soundtracks covering the latest developments in smartphones and tablet computers. When not ruining his eyesight staring at small screens, Joe ruins his eyesight playing video games and watching movies.
Joseph Hanlon

Welcome back to CNET's guide to pocket filmmaking, where we show you how to turn the smartphone in your pocket into a camera capable of shooting video projects worth sharing.

In this episode, we look at the importance of correctly lighting your movies, whether it is with natural light, the use of reflectors or by using some very handy, portable and inexpensive light packs. We also examine which settings on your phone can help you get the best images possible.

Watch this: Light your smartphone videos like a pro

Editors' note: Jason Van Genderen was the winner of several short film-making awards at festivals including Tropfest NY, Tropfest Sydney, and Aspen Shortsfest, and he has even won an IF Award. Jason's projects have been shot on the Nokia N95, Nokia N8, and Apple's iPhone. He recently took home first prize in the Telstra Mobile Masterpieces category at Tropfest Sydney for his film The 53rd Hour.

This post and video originally appeared on CNET Australia.