Reddit mentions: The best cell phone tripods

Okay! With those parameters, assets, and budget, you have two good options.

The first, and probably easiest, will be doing exactly what /u/MacintoshEddie has suggested and throwing $400 at a local filmmaker and seeing what they can do with your well developed idea.

The second is, in my opinion, more fun, but it'll also require you to learn a little about filmmaking yourself.

The good news is, you already have most of the tools you need to create a "my first documentary" video and do it well. The camera on the iPhone 7 is better than any camera you're going to purchase below $200, and if you drop a couple bucks on a tripod and iphone adapter you're going to be set.

The biggest downside for you will be audio. Audio is the thing most fresh-faced filmmakers overlook, but it's just as-- if not more-- important as video quality. The onboard microphone in the iPhone is oooookay, but if you're more than 3 feet away from your subject, it'll get dicey. And unfortunately, this is the only place the iPhone falls short of a $250 Canon t2i.

Traditionally, there are two ways to do audio: in-camera and synced. In camera is when the audio and video are recorded together inside whatever camera you're using. This is a little tricky for the iPhone, because it's harder to attach a decent microphone. There are ways, but I'm not fluent in them. If this were a DSLR like the t2i mentioned above, I'd suggest you drop $150 for a Rode Videomic and call it a day. Since that's not an option (that I know of-- there might be a 3.5mm microphone jack adapter for the iPhone 7!), we need to look at the second audio solution: synced.

Synced audio is when you record the audio and video separately, and then synchronize them in post production. First off, post production is a fancy way of saying "editing the video." For professionals, there's a whole lot more than just editing, but for you, this'll be when you're bringing the footage onto your macbook and likely editing in iMovie.

For synced audio, the best option will be purchasing an $85 Tascam DR-05, a cheap microphone boom stand, and this adapter. Attach the DR-05 to the boom, throw something heavy on the base of the stand, and you'll have a good setup to capture audio for interviews and stationary events. However, you will need to "slate" each shot.

A slate is that black and white clapper board you see whenever film is depicted in media. It's purpose to to create a spike in the sound, as well as a visual indicator, so whoever is editing the footage can synchronize the audio and video. You can get away without a slate by simply clapping your hands in front of the camera.

If you go this route, I would suggest ONLY trying to do audio for interviews, and maybe stationary events where your camera won't move around. The audio captured on your iphone for "action" shots or "in the wild" shots will be okay as long as you have decent quality audio for the interviews. This will also save you time while editing, because syncing audio is a pain in the butt.

Now, if you haven't been scared away yet, and still want to spend a little money to make those interviews look extra-sexy, imma talk about some of my favorite lights on the market right now.

I've thrown together a $180 light kit for you that'll help you light your subjects in most lighting conditions. I use the YN600 Air for a key light (main light), and the YN300 for a fill light (remove unwanted shadows, dark background, etc). They're not as bright as some other LED options, but you won't need to worry about modifying the light at all. The YN Air series does a wonderful job of creating a nice, soft lightsource that won't screw with skintones or create harsh shadows. I've also thrown in two good stands that include a bag, and two power adapters to run the lights. If you want, you can spend an extra $60 on NPF batteries and chargers (I'd suggest these and then these ) to make the lights completely mobile). In addition to being excellent video lights, I've found I also keep my 300 set up in my room as a evening reading lamp!

Obviously, the lighting isn't necessary, but I promise you it'd be worth the investment when it comes to the final quality of your video. Both have an extremely easy learning curve, produce excellent results without needing to set up screens of diffuse, and their size makes them an afterthought when traveling.

So now that you're overwhelmed with all that info, let me recap!

Option 1) Have someone else do it!
Pros: You need to learn less, less stressful, less time spent on your end
Cons: Limited scheduling flexibility, $400 won't secure someone for months-on-end

Option 2) Do it yourself!
Pros: Complete control over the final product, working on your own time without worrying about other people, and new toys!
Cons: way more work, way more learning

Overall, you have two solid options to make this work. You could even combine the two: get the tripod and grab "on site" shots while paying someone else to produce your interviews. You'd still be up for editing, but you wouldn't have to worry about the nicer quality audio/syncing. With either option, you're going to end up being the producer/director of this video, which means you'll be doing the scheduling and coordinating, as well as creating the idea and communicating it exactly to everyone else you're working with.

Even though this may all seem really overwhelming right now, the best way to get the documentary done is to simply start working on it. Write up a summary of your vision, start asking around, and trust yourself to create something good. This subreddit is an excellent resource, as well as plenty of youtube channels and other forums out there. Additionally, if you ever have any questions, don't hesitate to shoot me a message. :)

I used the EXACT same set up for a short film (camera and computer, ram, and ssd).

I'd get a boom pole or - even better - a tall mic stand with a telescoping arm (you'll need a mic to 1/4th inch converter), or both, a shotgun mic, an external recorder, and a lavaliere mic (or two).

If you use a mic stand you can avoid having a dedicated sound guy, you just have to be really careful where you place it and the mic. That or use a desktop tripod or laveliere for the sound.

The sound is key. I can't state this strongly enough. If your sound sucks, your film will too.

With the c100 always use the inbuilt mics for scratch sound and record using the external mic, then sync them in post.

I used the zoom h4 and I'd say get a recorder with better preamps (the zoom is a little noisy, but it's still pretty good).

I'd get an external usb 3.0 hard drive (not ssd) to archive footage, just because it's so much cheaper. I use a 4tb G-Drive and it works well with Macs (whatever you get, just make sure it's 7200rpm).

If you're making docs I'd go with Hitfilm (pro or express 2017) for editing. If you get express you'll need the extended formats pack ($10) for AVCHD from the c100. I'd also get the starter pack ($10), the colorist pack ($25), and the repair pack ($50).

The repair pack has a great denoiser (video, not sound).

On my 2012 Mac Hitfilm works very well with 1080p footage.

As for the external monitor - the screen on the c100 is good enough for video if you're doing a documentary, so I'd skip it and spend that money on the mic and the audio recorder (this also makes you MUCH more mobile).

Basically, that's all you need.

If you want to have options I'd say get a tripod dolly - something like this: https://www.amazon.com/Ravelli-ATD-Tripod-Camera-Lighting/dp/B000YB862E

I'd also get a smart phone tripod mount, something like this: https://www.amazon.com/RetiCAM-Smartphone-Tripod-Mount-Conversion/dp/B00P4VAHAI

Always remember you can record both video and audio on your smart phone if you're in a pinch or want a back up (so some extra SDXC cards are always needs, just get good ones).

And last but not least (and if you're buying a c100 you probably already know this), make sure you have a good ball head and a good pan and tilt head for your tripod.

Hope this helps.

p.s. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E61zIyOM6ls

I do a LOT of production for major television networks. I often have to help amateurs learn the basics for simple shoots.

Let's pretend you're using your cell phone camera (which is fine for most things like this).

Photography/Video basics:

1. Never have a light source behind you. (if you stand in front of a window or the sun is at your back then you will show up as a black blob.)
   
   
2. DO NOT SHOOT VERTICAL VIDEO. It won't showcase well on any television or computer. Plus it's hard to frame up two people vertically unless you're a mile back. If you are doing something SPECIFICALLY for snapchat or instagram then vertical is fine. Don't record the whole thing in vert.
   
   
3. Audio will be a nightmare. Plan to use music instead of the actual audio... if you find a quiet place to perform than use the actual audio from there. Have your camera person be quiet. You don't want them laughing and talking over you.
   
   
4. Shoot wide. She needs to get you and the spectator in the shot. Nobody wants just close ups of hands or heads chopped off of bodies... remember you want to see the performance AND reaction.
   
   
5. Feel free to move the camera around, but try to keep it steady while doing so. Hand-held is fine, but flopping the phone around or running to a new vantage point during a trick is bad.
   
   
6. GoPro's are great, but will be fisheye no matter what. I'd suggest a phone for maximum usability. Really only use GoPro for artsy angles once in a while. Or sit it on the edge of a table to get a super wide pov.
   
   
   
   TECH STUFF:
   
   
7. set your camera to 4K resolution and 24fps (if available). This will give you a file that is four times HD so you can crop out stuff and push in as needed to give a second camera effect. It will take up a LOT of space so dump it off of your phone at the end of each day (also make sure your phone has a lot of space left before you start filming).
   
   
8. Bring a hard drive with you. You'll fill up a laptop... bring a drive with lots of room for 4K footage.
   
   
9. Don't cut during a trick. Record for 10 seconds before you start and at least 10 seconds afterwards. You don't want to stop the video as soon as you finish. You want plenty to work with in the edit bay. Also if you cut from one camera to another during a trick it gives the viewer a spot to say "Hey, he just did some tricky camera shit." Let them see the whole performance in one take.
   
   -----------------
   
   Buy a cheap phone grip, selfie stick, monopod, or stabilizer... It'll help with her fatigue over a 8 min trick. That's a long time to hold your arm up with a phone. These guys will wrap around poles and hang from anything. In addition having a cheap pistol grip will do wonders for stabilizing.
   
   Make sure to buy one you can attach a phone mount or GoPro to. A monopod is a great way to set up the shot you want, hit record, then babysit it without fatigue. It will wobble when you hit record, so give it a few seconds to calm down before you start. This is the best bang for your buck. It allows an unmanned view and can be used as a stabilizer AND see over crowds or over your shoulder.

> I. Is there a way you can have external microphones that the iPhone uses that support the voices of up to 1-2 people?

Depends on your budget, but here are a couple of options:

• you might want to take a look at plugging a [$109 pro interview mic] (https://www.amazon.com/Audio-Technica-Omnidirectional-Dynamic-Microphone-AT8004L/dp/B00198VYEI//ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=battleforthew-20) into your iPhone with the [$149 Rode i-XLR] (https://www.amazon.com/Rode-i-XLR-Digital-Interface-Devices/dp/B01LS9JI22/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=battleforthew-20), as shown [here] (https://youtu.be/sCPvo5z9jUI)
  
  
• another alternative would be a [$59 Rode Videomic Me Directional Mic] (https://www.amazon.com/Rode-VideoMic-Directional-Microphone-Phones/dp/B018KIJGU8/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=battleforthew-20), as shown [here] (https://youtu.be/1-x8MVngwaI)
  
  > II. Do you have any recommendations for gimbals that I can use to keep the video ultra steady while trying to get panning shots or walking around, or even still video?
  
  The best value for your money is probably the [$149.88 Zhiyun Smooth Q] (https://www.amazon.com/Zhiyun-Smooth-Q-Handheld-Stabilizer-Smartphone/dp/B06XNNV5NJ//ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=battleforthew-20) - nice review from Curtis Judd [here] (https://youtu.be/bYxhl1t-qBM)
  
  > III. Are there portable tripods that are lightweight for iPhone that I can fit into a travelers backpack?
  
  The best lightweight tripod is probably this [$23.99 combination tripod/monopod/selfie-stick] (https://www.amazon.com/Extendable-Monopod-Bluetooth-Android-Cameras/dp/B06XT2K7VZ//ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&linkCode=ll1&tag=battleforthew-20).
  
  Hope this is helpful and Godspeed on your trip!

> I meant the second screen would be a lot smaller then the first one. Sorry if that wasn't clear.

Except it's not. Both screens were 320x240. They would literally be the same size on the Wii U gamepad, or the Switch screen. And if you mean the 3DS screens, well, yeah, the top screen is effectively 400x240 while the bottom is 320x240, so there's 80 extra vertical pixels on the 3DS' top screen, 40 pixels on each end, so the screen image would be a little wider for the "top" screen than the "bottom" screen, just like it already is on a physical 3DS and you don't seem to mind it there... so why would that make a difference here? And they both fit in the Switch screen without needing to be resized, with room left over to where they could be made larger than they would be on the 3DS itself.

> It's still preventing the left Joycon from having any function in DS VC, making buying extra left joycons somewhat of a waste of money.

How so? You still need the dpad and left bumper for DS games. You can still use the ABXY and right bumper on the right JoyCon for DS games... how are you figuring the left JoyCon would be non-functional with DS VC?

> That would be a huge production cost for something completely impractical. It wouldn't have an appealing design either, given it's purpose.

It would cost pennies at scale for someone like Nintendo or Hori, even Nyko or PDS. To individually 3D print for yourself, $25-$50, maybe less depending on where you get it printed from, or whether you have your own 3D printer.

As for design, it'd literally be a thin sheet of plastic about the same size as the Switch, with a lip on the top and bottom (vertically) to lock into the JoyCon rails on the switch, and an extra bit of plastic on both sides (again, vertically) for the JoyCons to slide onto while holding the Switch vertically.

Or even better, something that holds on by friction to the sides (vertically) of the Switch screen, like most universal smartphone/tablet grips for cars, just expands to whatever size needed to fit the device, then clamps on to keep from sliding off. Something like this, but with JoyCon rails at the ends to slide a pair of JoyCons onto. That one only goes up to 80mm though, so it wouldn't work for the Switch as is.

But this thing is big enough to grip the Switch (Switch is 102mm tall (horizontally) and this thing will grip up to 110mm), just need to mount the JoyCon wrist strap adapters that came with the Switch to it and you've got a vertical grip for $8. Or buy another set of JoyCon wrist straps if you don't want to use the ones that came with it, but those are $8 each and only come one at a time, so you're looking at $24 total for 2 straps and this grip. There are many more grips like that, just need to make sure it'll hold at least 102mm and you're good to go.

Nintendo could even do this with a variation of their standard JoyCon Grip, just split it down the middle so it can expand to clamp onto the Switch in a vertical orientation. Collapse back to the regular JoyCon Grip size when playing with the Switch docked or in tabletop mode.

> Ok sure, making a whole new console design for vertical use isn't very rational, but it would still be a solution to the problem (albeit inefficient).

The only issue is mounting the JoyCons while the Switch is vertical, and that's solved by an $8 grip, if not an official accessory. Or using the JoyCons detached with the Switch standing vertically on a table, if you don't need to be holding it directly in your hands.

I don't know why you'd think it's even an inefficient solution to redesign the whole system... that's no solution at all, that would simply be ridiculous. Irrational is putting it nicely.

So mount it on a tripod?

No camera is going to look super great hand held, when you're also performing. If you have a male counter part that can sometimes work in some positions, but otherwise if you're planning mostly solo stuff, a good camera holder and tripod will go a long way.

This is the cell phone mount I like - https://www.amazon.com/RetiCAM-Smartphone-Tripod-Standard-Conversion/dp/B00P4VAHAI

Tripod wise you can get a lot, just depends on your needs. A Gorilla pod would be a good investment, as would be a stand alone tripod in the $100-200 range.

From there an LED panel or two would do wonders, as would spending some money to get matching daylight balanced bulbs for the room you work in. That + good window light should be all you really need.

If you have anymore questions feel free to PM. I've spent a lot of time considering and planning doing what you're going into before I got a girlfriend. I'd love to talk shop about it because that world interests the hell out of me.

First off, it's not going to be instant. I took 6 years off and it took me a few months to get back to where I felt comfortable repeating shots (carrying a 225ish average in league right now). So have some patience :)

Secondly, video yourself. I keep a Gorillapod for smartphones in my bowling backpack and it makes life a lot easier. What you feel and what you actually do on the approach are not always the same thing haha

Thirdly, find a good coach and become BFFs with them. Same for a good PSO.

Also, what gear are you using and what have you been doing to take care of it?

Hope this helps - feel free to fire back here or via PM if you have questions or want to pick my brain on bowling stuff :)

> All you need are a phone, a laptop, a camera, a reliable credit card, and two, preferably 3 days of clothes (which may amount to three days of underthings, 1 pair of pants, 1 pair of shorts (night/laundry days), and 3 t-shirts (plus ATGATT).

I highly recommend a USB battery pack; this one is serving me fantastically well for travel, and just in general (no need for long charging cables, you're no longer tethered to the wall when charging). It should supply enough power to run a dashcam all day, too, if you don't want to bother with wiring in a USB power outlet on your bike.

Unless you're really into photography, good phones these days have such good cameras that I wouldn't even bother with a separate camera, other than a dashcam. A camera is just one more expensive thing you need to keep track of (and charge). Might spring for a GorillaPod, though, and a portable external hard drive to archive dashcam footage (which adds up quickly).

I'd bring more like 5 days of clothes; weather changes, and on a long trip, you might want to go out for a nice dinner or something now and then. And you don't want to be doing laundry all that frequently if you can help it, especially if the place you're staying doesn't have laundry facilities on-site. Definitely include a wool base layer and socks. A travel hair dryer can also be handy in case you need to dry out boots and socks, plus just as a hair dryer if you have long hair.

This is going by my experience on a 7-day motorcycle trip in the South Island of New Zealand.

OP, I'm very sorry for your loss. I wish you the best on your trip, though!

It's not a MacGuyver special, but I've had good success with a RetiCAM, which fits a camera tripod and can expand large enough to hold a standard Raspberry Pi case. (I use the RetiCAM to hold a RPi2/camera/WiFi-dongle combo on a tripod as a super cheap and simple portable network camera for things like watching my smoker's temperature from anywhere in my house.)

Get a tripod and one of those universal phone clips:

https://www.amazon.com/Accmor-Universal-Tripod-Adapter-Phones/dp/B00RG4KBWU/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467292478&sr=8-1&keywords=universal+phone+clip+tripod

If you want to upgrade your "video camera", I'd suggest the Canon HFR600 which is what I use. It is a discontinued model, but new ones can be found for well under $300. I was using a Flip before that, the HFR600 was a major upgrade for me.

https://www.amazon.com/Canon-VIXIA-Black-Discontinued-Manufacturer/dp/B00RKNO06K/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1467292572&sr=8-1&keywords=HFR600

If doing voice over work, get a decent microphone. I use the Blue Snowball. I won't say it is the greatest, but for the price, it was worth the investment. I'm never in front of the camera, so I don't have any suggestions for a wireless mic or anything like that.

https://www.amazon.com/Blue-Microphones-Snowball-Condenser-Microphone/dp/B006DIA77E/ref=sr_1_3?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1467292677&sr=1-3&keywords=Blue+Snowball

For video editing, I've been happy with Sony Vegas 11 "Platinum" version. They are now up to version 13. There are a lot of YouTube videos showing how to use it to do [XYZ], so I've been able to learn a lot that way.

http://www.sonycreativesoftware.com/moviestudiope

Super worth the effort! It really helps me (at least try to) correct issues from set to set, and it has helped me learn how to properly gauge RPEs by comparing how I felt under the bar to what the bar speed actually looked like.

I would recommend this super cheap tripod right here.

I'm gonna try this. I've been using a monopod with feet that's worked out pretty great, but if I can make this stable enough, it'll look cleaner.

This is the monopod I use in case anyone wants to try.
https://smile.amazon.com/Smatree-SmaPole-Q3-Telescoping-Session/dp/B00XN1P9QI/

It's cheap and I wouldn't use it in the field for actual photography (at least not long term), but as a stationary stand, it's perfect and pretty adjustable.

That is super lucky! I use this grip with a lanyard to give me a good hold with one hand and still be able to take pics and videos and to secure it.
https://www.amazon.com/Shoulderpod-S1-Professional-Smartphone-Smartphones/dp/B00MAARLT6

I usually love to put some headphones on and relax in my bed until I feel like I've wasted enough time, lol. I wish I could be doing that as I type this! Today has been stressful.

Get me out of here!

Thanks for the contest! :)

The Yamaha EAD-10 picks up the whole kit, sounds decent, and connects directly to an iPhone, automatically replacing the audio in your phone's video. It has a bunch of effects as well if you're into that sort of thing. A flexible tripod is a good place to start for holding your phone, as they wrap around drum hardware quite nicely. Good luck!

I bought this one for my 4,000 mile road trip around the US and it worked great

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B007NFJN0I/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1


Grips the phone nice and tight. My only complaint is that the grip "mount" doesnt' fasten securely enough to the base, but it never caused any issued when I was using it. For the price of the thing, i'm super happy with it

Yes you can use your phone. I use this selfie-stick that doubles as a tripod: https://www.amazon.com/Foneso-Extendable-Monopod-Bluetooth-Android/dp/B012AGH0KO

Fits super compact in my bag and it's pretty great.

I just set up my 10 month photo collage this week!
My progress collage

1. I use a small cheap iphone tripod on a box, no joke.
   Here's a photo of my set up
   Here's the one I use on amazon: Rienar Octopus Style Portable Tripod
   
   
2. I have the tripod setup so the better(back of phone) camera faces me, and I set the iphone to the 10 second timer burst shot.
   
   
3. The same thing every time! I picked things that were particularly tight on my hips at the start so that I could see size change easily.
   
   
4. I like natural light better (I decided, two months in), and to that end pick the same time of day to snap your photos if possible for consistency. I also have just a photoshop file that I add the new photos to and export as a jpeg so turn around time is short.
   
   

It sounds like what you really need is a tripod for the switch - Though these can be a little bulky / expensive for decent ones...

You could get something like this in combination with a tablet mount, or just get one intended for the purpose for a cheaper price but probably lower quality.

Something a bit more unique and less bulky but might be too high.

Or maybe a monopod which would offer less stability but be easier to use - You could play around with attaching a standard monopod to the inside of a backpack to use as the base support too, though I'm not sure how well it would work.

I also had this issue. I got this one off Amazon. I'm generally happy with it but I find that I can see part of the legs in my 360 videos if I spread them out fully. I just liked that I could use it for all my toys.

Smatree SmaPole Q3 Telescoping Selfie Stick with Tripod Stand for GoPro Hero 5/4/3+/3/2/1/Session Cameras, Ricoh Theta S, M15 Cameras, Compact Cameras and Cell Phones Gear 360 Selfie stick

Used to have the same problem, but got one of these:
https://www.amazon.com/Joby-JB01325-GripTight-GorillaPod-Phones/dp/B00M9C9EVS/ref=mp_s_a_1_5?keywords=joby%2Btripod%2Bphone&qid=1571104283&sr=8-5&th=1&psc=1

If you have a newish smartphone, it probably takes great video. I take a 60fps video then pick a stillframe, works great

Hell yeah astrophotography is totally possible with the v20 and stock camera app. That's all I use for everything I shoot. Here's a shot I took of a girl laying under the milky way - minor edits in Snapseed. Another long exposure of a boat in Chincoteague, VA. Definitely get a smartphone tripod adapter and a decent tripod. This is the adapter I use but there are plenty more with other features to choose from on Amazon, just read reviews. This looks like a good tripod; I highly recommend a tripod with flip locks instead of twist locks on the legs - way quicker to lock. And legs that can spread open as it allows for more adaptability on various terrains.

I actually was also trying to figure out one that would work and just found and ordered one the other day. It just arrived last night and I'm really happy with it.

https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XN1P9QI

Technically it's a selfie stick I guess? But you can use it as a tripod and it also comes with a phone holder thing that fits the PS4 Camera's mount perfectly.

I have it sitting on my TV stand directly behind the screen. I wanted one that would have small enough legs to fit on there and this was the only one I could find.

I think it's around 3.5ft tall fully extended, though, so make sure that'll work in your case before getting it.

Gimme one minute and I'll send a pic of how it looks with the PS4 Camera in that included phone mount.

Edit:

Here ya go.

I use the RetiCAM® Smartphone Tripod Mount https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KG4V11C. I bought the standard plus XL version because I go between different phones but if you're just using the 6P, get the XL.

Yes, it is a bit pricey but it's of really good quality. Everything is made of metal.

You can use any old tripod with this mount as well.

Yeah, this is getting ridiculous. It's happened to me twice in the past month and I consider myself a fairly smart Amazon shopper... The items weren't underpriced compared to other seller's prices. In fact, they were slightly above the average price. They were also being sold by US sellers with 1/2 week shipping times on listings full of nothing but Chinese sellers. They didn't have any feedback, but seller feedback is so hard to acquire sometimes since most people don't bother with reviews. The items were cheap so I gave them a chance. What a mistake.

Here's one of the items: https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B007NFJN0I/ref=dp_olp_new_mbc?ie=UTF8&condition=new

The seller I bought from was Brenda DUSSEY. He/she hasn't responded to emails and has a 0% feedback score. It looks like "redgoods" is doing the same thing. Two brand new US/UK sellers are listed there too, probably scammers. I know it's just a $2 item but the other item was around $30 (I would link it but it's not something I want to post to reddit). This is getting out of hand.

Some considerate parents even took an isle seat and used a tripod (or, like you said, did so in the back).

Now we just need considerate parents to use something like this (and shut off the screen) or get a proper camera.

https://imgur.com/gallery/qIbQBB5

Retractable with great height, even with this low entertainment block. 😼🎶
Should work with either generation PS4 camera; just remove its stand.

I made one of the mount holes large enough (with a small drill bit.. ideally you'd have the proper bit size 🥴) to fit my TV's bolt. If yours is smaller screen size it may have smaller bolts.

The parts:

• https://www.amazon.com/UBeesize-Extendable-Monopod-Wireless-Compatible/dp/B0746B6GP9/
  
• https://www.amazon.com/OdiySurveil-Security-Housing-Bracket-Compatible/dp/B00R96X9DS/
  
• https://www.amazon.com/TR-Industrial-TR88302-Multi-Purpose-Cable/dp/B01018DC96/

Any phone or tablet can get the job done.

This is a cheap tripod that works well if you aren't a savage with it but I would suggest getting a better head like this that is more sturdy.

Why Aliexpress? Buy from Amazon and get quicker shipping and some charity donation. The tripod is a Gorillapod and I have a high quality steel adapter from Reticam.

A little more expensive, but it will last a lifetime and the Gorillapod accommodates any number of heavier cameras as well, with a variety of cool accessories.

Phone tripod adapter mount: $6

https://www.amazon.com/Vastar-Universal-Tripod-Adapter-Samsung/dp/B00WFNNNCC/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1468737334&sr=8-2&keywords=phone+tripod+mount


Good tripod from Amazon brand: $17

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-50-Inch-Lightweight-Tripod-Bag/dp/B00XI87KV8/ref=sr_1_2?s=photo&ie=UTF8&qid=1468737351&sr=1-2&keywords=tripod

Be careful and dont hit the phone lol!

Yes, certainly doable. I've done it.

Here's a shot on my OnePlus 2 using an 8 second exposure at 1600:

• https://www.instagram.com/p/99TlhYxE0h/?taken-by=inorman
  
  Not aurora, but the same concept applies: http://www.lonelyspeck.com/photographing-the-milky-way-with-a-smartphone/
  
  More examples of extreme low-light with a smartphone:
  
  
• https://www.instagram.com/p/3UhmNJxEwB/?taken-by=inorman
  
• https://www.instagram.com/p/23y4rLRE_9/?taken-by=inorman
  
• https://www.instagram.com/p/BC19fDNxE4Z/?taken-by=inorman
  
  You'll want a tripod and a way to mount the phone. I recommend the Reticam XL:
  
  
• https://www.amazon.com/RetiCAM%C2%AE-Smartphone-Tripod-Mount-Universal/dp/B00KG4V11C
  
  Try 10s, ISO 800 on the Note 5.
  
  

Yeah...this is the one I have:

Smatree Q3 Telescoping Selfie Stick with Tripod Stand Compatible for GoPro Hero Fusion/7/6/5/4/3+/3/Session/GOPRO Hero 2018/DJI OSMO Action Camera,SJCAM,AKASO,Xiaomi Yi and Cell Phone (Q3) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XN1P9QI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_dhRKDbXN0RDGN

Joby make some pretty cool tripods and I think you can get phone holders for them.

Like this: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Joby-GripTight-GorillaPod-Stand-Smartphones/dp/B00M9C9EVS?th=1

A monopod can be a huge help too and there are a bunch that come with different mounts and adapters for phones or a go pro, these very easily slot into the space spaces that a stool or umbrella will go on most backpacks!

I have the concept 2 phone holder, and it works great. I ordered this for my airdyne, and it works really well. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00SZHIESK/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I've had great results with the Reticam mount. Have a look

RetiCAM® Smartphone Tripod Mount XL - Metal Universal Smart Phone Tripod Adapter - XL Size (2.75" to 3.6"), Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00KG4V11C/ref=cm_sw_r_other_awd_fq0IwbJ90GZ3P

I'm using the Arkon tripod which is perfect for portrait orientation. Landscape requires some adjustment since the phone hits the bottom of the mount but it has bendable legs so it's an easy fix.

https://www.amazon.ca/gp/aw/d/B00SZHIESK/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522582398&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=arkon+tripod&dpPl=1&dpID=41qJnc39JwL&ref=plSrch

I got this cheapo flexible tripod from Amazon about a year ago and it's still going strong! http://www.amazon.com/Octopus-Portable-adjustable-Cellphone-Bag-Blue/dp/B007NFJN0I/ref=sr_1_5?ie=UTF8&qid=1425730161&sr=8-5&keywords=iPhone+tripod

You can set it on the ground, wrap it around a pull up bar and hang the phone, or set it up on a bench or plyo box. When I'm done I just toss it in the bottom of my gym bag. Despite looking and feeling very cheap it's been surprisingly resilient!

Got this one. It's been pretty sturdy and good so far. Think the rotation is a bit awkward but it's good for the purpose of astro photos

Bought this for travel. Light weight, works pretty good and remote trigger is very handy.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HR5T8ZD/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_QcOFDbVJSKY3Q

I use one of these to attach my phone to my tripod.

Works great with both my iPhone 5s (small) and my Pixel XL (big) and it comes with adjustable length pins depending on which you need.

You can use it with a little cheap table-top tripod like this for a quick, light weight, portable and versatile rig.

You can hang it all kinds of places or use it just as a tripod. Not something you want to put a pan/tilt head on (like moving the camera smoothly while filming) but set and forget it's really nice.

I use a tripod mount for my iPhone and attach it to a mini-tripod. You can find many different choices for each accessory.

I ended up with this as my portable rig:

Shoulderpod S1

Pedco UltraPod II Lightweight Camera Tripod

Lots of phone tripod mounts out there. I went with the Shoulderpod due to its build quality. The Glif by StudioNeat looked like a great alternative.

With the mount, you should be able to use any tripod. However, tripods can be a nuisance to carry around (personal preference). These two items were easy to put in the bag.

The Ultrapod2 is very portable as opposed to a regular tripod, and you can also use the Velcro to wrap around a tee sign, tree, or whatever. You can also set up on a picnic table, stool, car, etc. to film.

You could also go with a Gorillapod, but the lower end ones that I felt didn't seem sturdy enough to my liking.

Whatever you get, make sure the mount is solid. I was using a gorilla pod with the mount that came with it and my phone would easily fall out. I bought a replacement mount by Reticam. It allows you to tighten down on the phone rather than just trusting a spring loaded tension grip.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00FS5L9D4?pc_redir=1411128467&robot_redir=1

i'm using a Quenox MR-23 with a Shoulderpod and I do not extend the last element of the stick since i'm to scared of breaking it. the shoulderpod also adds weight, but it holds the phone securely. Monopods are definitely more sturdy, but the handle is on the "wrong" side

ordered this one -
works really well goes up as high as the one on the floor and you can hide it behind your monitors with a very small footprint on your actual desk, really stable as well https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XN1P9QI/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I bought this tripod solely for the part that holds the phone, and it's definitely a nice part to have, especially for $10.

You noticed eh! :) .... yeah I've got this bad boy ordered

Digiant 50 Inch Aluminum Camera Tripod + Universal Tripod Smartphone Mount for Apple, Iphone Samsung and Other Brands Smartphones https://www.amazon.com/dp/B018ICYNKY/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_5XpiybWEXN9SZ

Hey /r/ssbm, I posted the other day about a phone tripod to take to tournaments.

I ended up buying this one:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018ICYNKY/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It worked great. I managed to get some footage of me getting bodied.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8UfpQ-He8tY

I don't really know much about gimbals, but how about a smartphone tripod adapter? That's just the first example I found googling. It's quite possible something better is out there.

Get a monopod.


https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00XN1P9QI/ref=s9_acsd_top_hd_bw_b25tS_c_x_4_w?pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-3&pf_rd_r=ZKXAT7FZ93CFKXHRSZNH&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_p=fcf46906-4177-5a42-bd00-36e4a6a9c563&pf_rd_i=499314


That one even comes with a cell phone adapter that fits the PSVR camera perfectly. I actually own that adapter and use it with my tripod.

Yep I used this one that I got on Amazon for 7 bucks.

It works well for what I paid, but my phone is slightly too heavy so sometimes the top parts tips over

Get a Shoulderpod S1 and your iphone would be great for handheld

I've been using this on vacation with pixel 2s and 3s. It's been working great.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NWC3L95/

Samples of a couple photos taken using astrophotography on pixel 3:
https://m.imgur.com/gallery/ZsI06fs

I have this one, works great for my Galaxy S7.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M9C9EVS/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

They sell a Bluetooth Instax Film Printer ($150?) It will allow you/your guests to be selective as to which photos are printed. If the wedding is outside, the exposure is hard to gauge with the instant camera it's self so you may get a lot of bleached photos. You can get film for a bit less than $1/each.

I'd recommend a blue tooth selfie stick and tripod if you go this route.

Here’s the one I used for my X. Loved this thing.


https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SZHIESK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_Oqz4Bb02YX5FD

My first thought was "It looks like this person is struggling to open up the container. It would be easier if they put the phone down." To bad there is not a device that can leave your hands free while still holding your camera at the target you are trying to film / photo.... huh oh wait look at this science future technology I found for like $5. wow

There's a common saying amongst photographers that the best camera is "the one you have with you". For that reason, get yourself one of those $20-30 little flexible tripods with the spring-loaded holster to hold a smartphone. Link: https://www.amazon.com/Joby-JB01325-GripTight-GorillaPod-Phones/dp/B00M9C9EVS/.

Bring that with you everywhere and film sets constantly. Don't wait for when you're "running your set". If there's a crowd, decent lighting, and a place to set your phone up, the recording you get off your phone will easily be good enough for submissions. If you record all the time, you're also more likely to catch those "lightning-in-a-bottle" sets. It's not high enough quality for immediate release on Netflix, but unless your phone is beyond garbage, you'll have something a booker can look at, review, and get a decent sense of your act without getting distracted by low quality.

I recently got this from Amazon It holds the phone and screws onto a tripod. Works great!

You've heard of Gorillapod yeah? It seems many people don't know they make a magnetic one!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00DEH62QC/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1478879310&sr=sr-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=joby+magnetic


Additionally I use this phone holder because it's got two 1/4-20 threads!

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00WFNNNCC/ref=yo_ii_img?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Here's a neat tripod for 6 bucks!

Thanks! I used a smatree telescoping pole. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XN1P9QI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_HxsEybWQ05KN8

Hm, the thing is i dont want any of the video shots to have slants or anything in them. I want some good stabilized video shots, was looking into this..

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00M9C9EVS/ref=s9_acsd_al_bw_c_x_2_w

Use something this and a tripod head with a 1/4" hole drilled into the board if you want it to be really secure.

I've been using this extendable tripod for about 1.5 years now. Is pretty well built and has held up to plenty of travel and abuse. And doesn't take up a lot of space.

Before that, I used to use one of these magnetic flexible tripods and would either put them on top of a foam roller to get the phone higher up, or would mount it to a squat rack, etc.

AmazonBasics Tripod Boom Microphone Stand https://www.amazon.com/dp/B019NY2PKG?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

Vastar Universal Cell Phone Tripod Mount Adapter Holder for iPhone/Samsung Galaxy/Nexus and More Cell Phones Use on Tripod, Monopod, Selfie Stick, Tabletop Tripod Stand and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WFNNNCC?ref=yo_pop_ma_swf

It fits all phones, even some small tablets. It you want to use another recording device there are plenty of other attachments for other devices.

You could easily buy one of those phone tripods online, where you just hook it in place, set it on a flat surface, and bam! They're usually pretty cheap to order online, too.

Here's what you want. Grab this :

Vastar Universal Cell Phone Tripod Mount Adapter Holder for iPhone/Samsung Galaxy/Nexus and More Cell Phones Use on Tripod, Monopod, Selfie Stick, Tabletop Tripod Stand and More https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00WFNNNCC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_NKrGzb5P6838N

Then mount it to a cheap light stand. You don't need a tripod or some cheap POS branded for phones. Grab something like this Neewer W802 40"/102cm Collapsible 2-Studs Mini Light Stand Aluminium Alloy Photography Photo Studio Light Stands for Video,Portrait and Photography Lighting https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00X5GCG12/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_SLrGzbFWJRY1C

You want the camera at the height of your hands. Nobody's hands are gonna be higher than 40 inches.

You may want to get a cheap ball head so you can tilt the camera to make the horizon level

Vastar 2 Packs Mini Ball Head Hot Shoe Mount with 1/4” Screw for Camera, Light Bracket Swivel Screw Tripod Mini Ball Head for Digital SLR Camera Tripod Mount, Camera Camcorder and Other Devices https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07177SCPP/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_XMrGzbXJ2PNNM

Not to be critical but to hold your expensive smartphone, to me it's worth $4.99 to have something that will hold it tightly, that won't scratch it up, and where the nut won't fall out of the wood and send it splatting to the ground.

Source: One of these is in my camera bag at all times

Buy a phone stand like https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XN1P9QI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_OT16BbZGEH0ED

I have mine mounted on a selfie stick/stand like this one: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XN1P9QI

​

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There's tripod for phones too. Something like this

Well any tripod plus this if you wanna get fancy. Plenty if other stuff you could prop it up with though

It was less than $20 on Amazon!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0746B6GP9/ref=cm_sw_r_sms_c_api_i_xAp4Ab58QSXBH

I second this. Never film in portrait, always landscape.

It can also help the guy filming to get a handle for the phone you're shooting with, something like: https://www.amazon.com/Universal-Smartphone-Filmmaker-Traveler-adjustable/dp/B01EBEPDO8

Or for easier low angle work you would get a tripod adapter and low angle grip (the grip linked above also works as a tripod adapter, so if you buy that first you can get just the low angle grip later):

• https://www.amazon.com/Vastar-Universal-Adapter-Samsung-Tabletop/dp/B00WFNNNCC
  
• https://www.amazon.com/Zeadio-Stabilizing-Stabilizer-Accessory-Camcorder/dp/B00LKK99QA
  
  Or if you have some more cash and want something more compact for low angle camera phone shots:
  https://www.amazon.com/Original-Handle-FreeRide-Combo-Smartphones/dp/B01N8XYIZC

Get an Amazon Basics tripod, and one of these.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B071HPDCJ3/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apis_1500085245216

get this (if too small just get a bigger amazon basics tripod)

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-WT0352G-Lightweight-Mini-Tripod/dp/B00M78G2VO/

then this (your smartphone adapter - get a case for the edge so you're not gripping the screen)

https://www.amazon.com/Accmor-Universal-Tripod-Adapter-Phones/dp/B00RG4KBWU

You could use an L bracket for a camera that would give you 2 shoe mounts.

https://www.amazon.com/Fotga-L-bracket-Camera-Camcorder-Microphone/dp/B00JKCWY44/

Then pair it with some sort of clamp like this

https://www.amazon.com/Accmor-Universal-Tripod-Adapter-Phones/dp/B00RG4KBWU/

https://www.amazon.com/GripTight-GorillaPod-Stand-Large-Phones/dp/B00M9C9EVS

https://www.amazon.com/Joby-JB01325-GripTight-GorillaPod-Phones/dp/B00M9C9EVS

You'll need something like this to connect to the 1/4 20 bolt.

Cheapest and
Want

I used a RetiCAM Tripod Mount on an old tripod I had laying around for the smoother motion. But I also added warp stabilizer in premiere pro afterwards.

https://www.amazon.com/Octopus-Portable-adjustable-Cellphone-Bag-Blue/dp/B007NFJN0I

Just get one of these. It's a standard phone clip that you can then attach to any tripod.

Not 100% on these things, but close enough


Selfie stick / tripod


Battery pack

Wide angle lens

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07HR5T8ZD/ref=cm_sw_em_r_mt_dp_U_fzWRDbPVKV5KJ

Used this tripod for the shot. Got the job done.

Selfie Stick Tripod, UBeesize 51" Extendable Tripod Stand with Bluetooth Remote for iPhone & Android Phone, Heavy Duty Aluminum, Lightweight https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07NWC3L95/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_C-IXDbAAAPVPA

I got one of these.

I've been using this Reticam attachment

RetiCAM Smartphone Tripod Mount with Standard Plus XL Conversion Kit(2.1 to 3.6- inch)- Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P4VAHAI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_IOWsyb356CFQR

• Rode Smartlav - $80
  
• 3-point CFL light kit - $55
  
• Amazon Basics Video Tripod - $75
  
• Smartphone tripod mount - $6
  
• Filmic Pro app - $10
  
  
  

$6 - https://www.amazon.com/Vastar-Universal-Adapter-Samsung-Tabletop/dp/B00WFNNNCC/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1479403017&sr=8-3&keywords=smartphone+tripod+mount

Cheap

Good

Ending up going with this:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012AGH0KO/ref=crt_ewc_title_dp_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3FD19ALDFYBO5

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B01GE8R2QG/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1505663657&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=tripod+phone&dpPl=1&dpID=41O8uVdVk1L&ref=plSrch

I have one of these: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B012AGH0KO/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

It works well for filming bowling shots. No recommendations on the apps but I will check out the suggestions here.

I've tried a lot of mounts over the years, even fabricating my own, but once I found Proclip (https://www.proclipusa.com) there is no going back. They are kind of pricey, so I only use the dashboard mount portion (This is the part they build that is custom molded for each specific make/model of car so it is study and doesn't look tacked-on.) For actually holding the phone, I just mount a generic "2 arm sliding phone grip" type mount to the Proclip base. (These work well for me: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WFNNNCC/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1)

I got this one and returned it because the knob to tighten the ball joint stuck out and was always visible and never invisible.

Smatree Q3 Telescoping Selfie... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00XN1P9QI?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

I'll vouch for this. Allows you to mount the phone on damn near anything.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B007NFJN0I/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1409231943&sr=8-1&pi=SY200_QL40

Very possible! I'm personally a fan of the shoulderpod.

http://www.amazon.com/Shoulderpod-S1-Professional-Smartphone-Smartphones/dp/B00MAARLT6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1452661907&sr=8-1&keywords=Shoulder+pod

It connects to most tripods, and doubles as a hand held camera.

Lighting is definitely a major factor for when it comes to shooting with an iPhone, or any smartphone for that matter. Smartphone camera's have piss poor performance with low lighting, thus you will get a lot of "noise" (an unsightly grainy look) when shooting in darker places. Also keep in mind, because the iPhone camera sensor is significantly smaller than the sensor of an actual DSLR or camcorder, it will still suffer some form of noise. With a bit of work, it's quite possible to shoot a decent looking video for YouTube. If you haven't already, get a third party video app such as FilmicPro, MoviePro, Ultrakam, ect.