The age of online video is upon us.
In 2014, there were a record number of videos watched online — 38.2 billion, according to the Adobe Digital Index.
Research by Cisco predicts that “globally … video traffic will be 79 percent of all consumer Internet traffic in 2018.”
From native videos on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter; to Snapchat snaps; to Periscope live-streams, video is now everywhere and it is the best medium for spreading your message online.
So how can you be a part of the video revolution without investing an arm and a leg? Luckily, the iPhone makes it possible for nearly anyone to be a serious player in the field of online video.
With a few pointers in mind, you can create great, engaging video content for your online audience, using just your iPhone and a few easily-found accessories.
From iPhone 3GS to iPhone 6S, the advice below will enable you to shoot high quality video that successfully conveys your message.
Whether you are a musician hoping to showcase your work online, an advocate trying to spread an important cause, or a businessperson working to build your brand, you can leverage the power of online video to further your mission.
1. 
Keep it steady. The most obvious giveaway that you are an amateur videographer is the shakiness in your footage.
The ALM mCAMLITE is a great iPhone stabilizer that I personally own. It’s the best way to turn your iPhone into a high-quality video production tool.
2. Keep it lit. Want to know the real secret to professional-looking videos shot with a smartphone? Light.
Light makes all the difference between a mediocre video and a near-professional one. Whether you’re creating a video review of a product or interviewing someone with your iPhone camera, you’ll want to take advantage of light to get the best effect.
Natural light from the sun works great, especially around dawn or dusk. Otherwise, use a bright florescent light or a light mount like the one sold with the stabilizer above.
Watch how this iPhone photographer created a seemingly-professional photo shoot with an iPhone and smart use of lighting:
3. Don’t neglect the edit. Nothing will lose your audience’s attention like a rambling monologue or a bunch of needless filler content.
Use an editor like iMovie (available on iOS and Mac) to take your best recorded video content and thread it together into a great edit.
Use only the best clips, and add b-roll by recording peripheral content showing imagery related to the subject matter you are discussing.
This is just a primer, but consider these the first three steps to getting started making great iPhone videos.
What are your best iPhone video tips?
