These are some must-have accessories for smartphone filmmaking

Ryan Connolly of Film Riot recently gave us an example of a neat-looking video shot on a smartphone. Of course, if you’re limited only to the smartphone, it’s possible to shoot a movie, but there are certain challenges you’ll need to face.

In this video, Ryan gives you a few suggestions for improving your smartphone moviemaking with some additional accessories. They won’t only make the footage quality better, but they’ll make the shooting easier and less frustrating.

Lenses

You can expand the possibilities of your smartphone lens with various external lenses. They vary a lot in price, and you can get them for as low as $22 for an entire set of 5 lenses. If you want some higher-quality glass – it will cost you more, as you can expect. Here are a few types Ryan recommends, both budget-friendly and pricy versions:

Stabilizers

Sometimes you want the effect of the handheld shots, but it’s not always the case. So, you need some stabilizers. Ryan recommends MeFoto Tripod Adapter, which you can mount onto any tripod and fix your phone onto it. Benro BK10 is also a good option. You can use it as a tripod, a monopod and even a selfie stick (if you must). These two are pretty cheap ($30-$35). And if your budget is a bit higher and you need smooth handheld shots, you can consider getting a DJI Osmo Mobile.

Audio

The native microphone of the smartphone is certainly not the best way to record audio. Instead, you can use some of these accessories to get the clean and crisp sound. Again, Ryan suggests versions for different budgets, from under $20 to almost $300.

Storage

When you shoot a video on a smartphone, especially in hi-res, you’ll need some extra space. Ryan recommends iXpand as a great solution to back up the footage or clear space while shooting.

Of course, you can always shoot without spending extra cash on accessories. However, if you are still far from buying your first DSLR or movie camera, maybe you can consider spending $100-$200 on a few extra items to boost your smartphone and start bringing your ideas to life.

[Must Have Filmmaking Accessories for iPhones & Androids| Film Riot]

John DeRolph

What do you like for the iPad pro? Thanks
Damir Perisa

Phone filmmaker is a bit of an oximoron. Like microwave chef
- pincherio
  
  The term “filmmaker” does not denote excellence. Anyone shooting a video production can call themselves a filmmaker. Chef is a title given to cooks who have achieved specific levels in the cooking industry.
Jeffrey B George

I have many accessories for my iPhone. I ordered the Tiffen Steadicam Volt on Kickstarter. Yes, the big name Steadicam. Tiffen had a few delays as expected in any new product development. Breaking their own promises, they sent inventory to retail before the 6,000+ backers who collectively spent $1.1 million. Tiffen charged Kickstarter backers extra for a “premium” case, but threw it in free to pre-orders on their website after Kickstarter closed. I have bought a lot of Tiffen gear over the last few decades, I will now recommend all their competitors instead.