In the following we will show you some basics about how to set up a camera.

When shooting on mobile devices, some basic camera apps can’t control every setting. If so look for custom apps in your App- or Play-Store that support full camera control.

Please keep in mind that these settings are explained very briefly. Mastering them needs time and practice. There is also no “single perfect setting”. It always depends on the situation you are filming and the look you want to achieve. If you are interested in deepening your understanding of settings, there are several very good explanatory videos and channels on YouTube:

Potato Jet:
Gene Nagata (aka “Potato Jet”) is a cinematographer in Los Angeles and has done some major work for Boeing and NASA. On his channel he tests equipment and explains how you can get a professional look even when using gear on a budget.
Peter McKinnon:
Canadian YouTuber Peter McKinnon is well known for his channel about video and photography. You can find an abundance of useful information, tutorials and tips about camera handling on his channel.
Jesse Driftwood:
Another Canadian cinematographer, Jesse Driftwood, has extensive useful content on editing and camera handling.
Epic Light Media:
On this channel you can find a lot of useful information about lighting in different scenes and locations.