User GENERATED
CONTENT GUIDE
a guide on how to shoot your own content
INTRODUCTION
Welcome to the Studio Eighty Eight User Generated Content Guide. In this document you will find a comprehensive guide on how to shoot high-quality social content, no matter your budget. Whether you’re working with just a smartphone or looking to invest in professional-grade gear, we’ll walk you through the essential setups to maximize your video potential.
We will cover three different video setups based on budget, the key elements of production like camera settings, lighting, audio, and stability, go over essential cinematography tips to enhance your video quality and composition , and provide you with practical on-camera speaking techniques to help you communicate effectively.
By the end of this guide, you’ll have the knowledge and tools to create polished, engaging content that resonates with your audience. Let’s dive in!
In this article
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THE BARE BONES
What’s great about shooting in this era of technology is you don’t need much. Everyone has a cellphone, a window, and the ability to turn off the air conditioner inside. Let’s take a look at how we can maximize shooting social content with the bare bones.
The Camera | Cellphone
- Everyone has a cellphone in their pocket. Most phones now can shoot up to 4K at 120FPS. To maximize the quality of your social content, we at Studio EightyEight recommend a few settings:
- Shoot at 24fps for talking head. This will give your video that “cinematic feel” when you are speaking to the camera.
- For supporting footage or “B Roll” shoot at 60 or 120fps so the footage can be slowed down for smooth, cinematic motion. Just make sure to move the phone slowly if moving the camera.
Lighting | Natural Light
- The best free light source is a window! Position yourself facing the window for the best results. Avoid harsh overhead lighting or backlighting that can cause unwanted shadows or a silhouette effect.
Audio | Quiet Enviorment
- Turn off air conditioning, fans, or any background noise that could interfere with your voice. If possible, record in a small room to reduce echo.
Stability | Tripod or DIY Setup
- If you don’t have a tripod for your phone, prop your phone up on a stack of books or against a stable object.
- Keep the phone at eye level for the most flattering angle.
THE BARE BONES
What’s great about shooting in this era of technology is you don’t need much. Everyone has a cellphone, a window, and the ability to turn off the air conditioner inside. Let’s take a look at how we can maximize shooting social content with the bare bones.
The Camera | Cellphone
- Everyone has a cellphone in their pocket. Most phones now can shoot up to 4K at 120FPS. To maximize the quality of your social content, we at Studio EightyEight recommend a few settings:
- Shoot at 24fps for talking head. This will give your video that “cinematic feel” when you are speaking to the camera.
- For supporting footage or “B Roll” shoot at 60 or 120fps so the footage can be slowed down for smooth, cinematic motion. Just make sure to move the phone slowly if moving the camera.
Lighting | Natural Light
- The best free light source is a window! Position yourself facing the window for the best results. Avoid harsh overhead lighting or backlighting that can cause unwanted shadows or a silhouette effect.
Audio | Quiet Enviorment
- Turn off air conditioning, fans, or any background noise that could interfere with your voice. If possible, record in a small room to reduce echo.
Stability | Tripod or DIY Setup
- If you don’t have a tripod for your phone, prop your phone up on a stack of books or against a stable object.
- Keep the phone at eye level for the most flattering angle.
Your Story Is Worth It.
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