I’ll let you in on a little secret: you don’t have to invest in expensive equipment to make YouTube videos. Here’s an easy beginners guide to help you get started making content today!
If you’ve been around for a while, you know I’ve been sharing content and photography here since 2011. And if you’re new, hi my name is Rachel and I recently made the jump to creating content for YouTube!
As a photographer at heart, I was apprehensive about making the switch because all I’ve practiced for years is creating still images. Video really wasn’t even on my radar until 2020 with the rise of TikTok, and even then YouTube always seemed like a more serious platform. After hours of research, I decided that before making any investment that I would try with what I already had.
Not only have I been able to make content that I enjoy and that performs well, but I’ve also recently been able to monetize my channel (which just means YouTube splits ad revenue with me when you watch my videos). And I was able to do all of this with my phone.
Here are my tips for how to start filming content for YouTube on your phone!
What would this post be without an actual YouTube video?! Learn everything you need to know about making YouTube videos with just your phone in my latest upload. And be sure to subscribe if you like helpful tips, easy DIYS, and colorful home decor!
What I Use to Record YouTube Videos
The video I shared above covers everything in depth, but here’s a quick run down of what I use to record my YouTube videos:
- iPhone 15 Pro (my current phone, but I have used older models of the iPhone for videos)
- Bluetooth Microphone
- Travel Tripod
- Voice Memo App for Audio (I use this for Reels too)
Phone Camera Settings for Video
The image above is a screenshot of the current settings on my phone. I record all video footage in 4K at 30 fps. When I export to Reels, I reduce this to 1080p because platforms like Instagram reduce the file size anyway. YouTube allows 4K and it gives your videos a more professional quality. I’m even able to watch my videos on my TV without a dip in quality!
Tips for Capturing Content
- A tripod will stabilize your camera for crisp footage
- Lighting is KEY!
- Record more than you think you need. You can edit later!
- Organize your footage on your phone into folders for easy access.
Bonus Tip: Record as much B-Roll footage as you possibly can! This will add so much life to your videos and help you drive home a feeling.
Editing Videos on Your Phone
When it comes to putting it all together, there are dozens of options for editing videos on your phone out there (CapCut, iMovie, etc). If you don’t like one software, keep trying others until you get the one that clicks!
I use Adobe Rush when I only have my phone to make edits. This is also how I make all of my vertical videos so that I’m able to make a video once and post it to multiple platforms (Reels, Shorts, YouTube). This helps me avoid watermarked videos and keeps me from having to record voiceovers more than once.
Rush is a subscription based payment plan, so the investment to try is low. You might also be able to grab a free trial too. I’ll note that you can also use Rush on desktop and sync with the app if you prefer editing with your computer.
As a side note, I am and forever will be a fan of working on my computer. If this is you too, you can still record and do everything on your phone, but I use Final Cut Pro for desktop editing. It’s great for adding extra things to your videos like transitions, text overlays, and more. It’s a one time fee that’s a bit steep (~$300), but I’ve been using it for years and think the cost as been well worth it.
And here’s a recap you can save and Pin for later!
So that’s how you make YouTube videos on your phone! I know there’s that urge to buy the best equipment and to make sure you’re doing it “right” before you start, but I think you just need to start recording! Starting with your phone will also help you decide if you even like long form content before fully investing.
Let me know if you have any questions at all. I’m happy to share everything I know. I can’t wait to see what you make!