Position

• Shoot horizontal (landscape orientation)
  • Make sure no objects block the camera
• Background
  • Be aware of what's in it
• Zoom
  • Zoom with your feet, not phone. Zooming with the camera causes quality loss.

Camera

• Take video or photo with a smartphone

DO NOT use a computer camera unless that's your only option. 

Stabilize

• Use a tripod or rest your phone on something flat
• Avoid moving around
• Avoid fast moments

Audio

• Avoid background noises if possible
• Stay inside (avoid wind noise)
• Don't touch the camera, as the mic will pick up those sounds
• Use a mic if you can, like iPhone headphones or AirPods

Lighting

• Avoid harsh light or dark shadows
• Keep consistent lighting if possible

Formatting your media for a website

If your media is to be uploaded to the college's website, vpa.syr.edu, please see guidelines for formatting video/photo/audio/content  for more info. 

Simple how-to take photos demo

• See this 2-minute video on taking professional portraits with your phone