Thanks to ever-improving cameras, greater processing power, and other amazing features, a smartphone can become your all-in-one content creation studio. And since smartphones are getting more powerful, there’s never been a better time to use your cell phone as a content creator studio. With a few critical pieces of equipment, your cellphone can transform into a full-fledged production environment that handles video, audio, editing, and export. Whether you’re a TikToker, a YouTuber, a vlogging sensation, or a lifestyle creator, you can use the cellphone in your pocket to make your mark online. This article will cover some critical pieces of gear that take your productions to the next level, and we have even more incredible gear on our Content Creator page. Let’s get started.
- Best iPhone Microphones
- Wireless Microphones for Phones
- Best Gimbals for Phones
- Ring Lights for Phones
- LED Panels for Videos
- Other Excellent Extras
Best iPhone Microphones
So many content creators rely on Apple iPhones to capture quality content. And while the built-in microphones have improved with each new version, Sweetwater recommends using a high-quality external iOS microphone for clear, intelligible audio. The iOS microphones in this article are optimized for iPhones and iPads with Lightning connectors. Content creators looking for an easy, effective way to conduct an interview or capture on-location audio will love the RODE VideoMic Me-L iPhone / iPad microphone for video. This shotgun-style microphone captures the entire audio spectrum and has a furry windshield to eliminate wind noise. Need to capture extra-loud sources? The iOS Zoom iQ6 stereo XY microphone is right up your alley. It offers stunning stereo sound and handles sources up to 130dB, meaning you can record everything from whispers to jet engines roaring overhead. Finally, the Saramonic SmartMic DI Mini compact omnidirectional condenser microphone with Lightning connector is a great way to capture run-and-gun interviews in public.
Rocking an iPhone with the updated USB-C port or an applicable Android device? We’ve got mobile mics for you, too! A Sennheiser XS Lav USB-C Mobile Kit gives you a wired lavalier microphone for use with your phone, a compact desktop tripod, and more. It’s a lovely solution for working at your desk. Sweetwater recommends the RODE VideoMic USB-C mobile vlogging/streaming bundle for behind-the-camera work; the mic’s USB-C port plugs straight into an iPhone or other smart device for speedy setup. What’s more, the included PocketPod smartphone mount doubles as a handheld monopod for vlogging during your next trip.
Creators who need a simple, compact microphone that they can throw in a bag will get plenty of mileage from the Zoom Am7 rotating mid-side stereo microphone for Android. It offers three stereo polar patterns and audio and video modes. Plus, you can use it with your rear- or front-facing camera. Adding a smartphone microphone to your setup ensures your audio is as compelling as your visual content.
Wireless Microphones for Phones
Whether you’re appearing on camera or conducting a quick interview on the sidewalk, the convenience provided by wireless iPhone microphones is hard to beat. A wireless smartphone microphone is easy to set up and pair with your smartphone, so you can get up and running in no time flat. Plus, there are no unsightly wires to detract from your shot. Need to run sound for two people? No problem. The DJI Mic wireless transmission system offers two self-contained mic transmitters that clip directly to the talent’s shirt or jacket. It also has a compact receiver and a charging case, so you’re always ready to go. Users looking for a more low-profile solution will gravitate toward the RODE Wireless Pro wireless microphone system‘s outrageous sound quality, optional lavaliers, and massive 260-meter range. The RODE Wireless GO II wireless microphone system offers the same compact form factor as the Wireless Pro system but in a single-channel, short-range format.
Best Gimbals for Phones
Whether recording a TikTok or documenting your exploration of a new city, a gimbal is a must-have. Why? With their built-in gyroscopes, these brilliant handheld devices automatically compensate for shaky hands or bumpy car rides. Sweetwater Sales Engineers frequently recommend the DJI Osmo Mobile SE gimbal stabilizer to beginners. It boasts a foldable design, multiple shooting modes, and 3-axis stabilization — and it’s all easy to use. If you’re using an external mic while shooting, then the Benro 3XS smartphone gimbal stabilizer is perfect for you. This gimbal offers autorotation, an onboard microphone jack, smartphone charging, 3-axis stabilization, and a folding body. Finally, the Insta360 Flow standalone gimbal maximizes your phone’s capabilities with Deep Track 3.0 subject tracking, flexible controls, and an arsenal of professional-quality effects. The Shot Genie feature even suggests effects that will work for your situation. With a gimbal, you can quickly and easily deliver sweeping, cinematic shots that rival professional productions.
Ring Lights for Phones
Ring lights are still the undisputed champions of the content creator gear game. A ring light can help you compensate for the harsh, unflattering shadows caused by conventional overhead lighting. They also ensure the viewer sees your beautiful face, so it’s a win-win! Let’s start with the Gator Frameworks 10-inch LED Ring Light with desk stand. This ring light is designed to be used while being seated and is just as good for makeup tutorials as it is for discussing movies and sharing fan theories. For the classic “get ready with me” TikTok, the Mackie mRING-10 10-inch battery-powered ring light kit‘s full-size tripod stand ensures that every inch of your outfit is visible — all the way down to your kicks. And if you need a soft, flattering lighting solution, then you can’t go wrong with the Phottix Nuada Ring 10 LED Light Go Kit. It includes a tabletop stand, which will work almost anywhere. Whichever ring light you choose will increase your production value every time you turn it on.
LED Panels for Videos
Ring lights aren’t the be-all and end-all for content creators. Many people, especially streamers and gamers, prefer to use LED panel lights to help them jump off the screen or set a background mood. The Phottix M5 LED Light is a simple way to get more out of your smartphone camera. It can clip directly to your phone or tablet and offers five brightness levels, low-heat LEDs, and a built-in battery for mobile production. Meanwhile, the 2-pack Chauvet DJ Cast Panel Pack LED light panel is suited to full-scale productions. It includes two LED panels and a pair of tripod stands. Their flicker-free operation makes them a cinch for smartphone and video cameras alike. An Ikan HS-LR6 HomeStream 6-inch-diameter LED accent light, which comes with a variable-height stand, gives you excellent lighting flexibility. Thanks to bicolor LEDs, this round accent light can provide both warm and cool tones to fit any situation. From livestreaming to recording news hits for social media and anything in between, an LED panel for video is a cost-effective way to punch up your productions.
Other Excellent Extras
Thinking of what is possible with a single smartphone is astonishing. And with some clutch accessories, you can get even more out of your phone. If you work behind the camera, for example, then the Saramonic VGM smartphone/camera vlogging and video production kit simultaneously helps achieve a stable picture and capture excellent audio. It includes a smartphone mount, a mini-shotgun microphone, and an extra shoe mount for other accessories. And if you’re using your smartphone in conjunction with other cameras, then use the Ikan HomeStream Smartphone Teleprompter for DSLRs, mirrorless cameras, and smartphones. It helps the talent stick to the script and deliver a more professional presentation.
Are you taking your vlog production on the road? Then you’ll need the Benro Tablepod Kit with Arca-Swiss-style camera plate and smartphone adapter. It’s an extremely durable tabletop tripod with a cold shoe, smartphone clamp, and camera plate. Speaking of tripods, a Benro PocketPod mini tripod and handgrip with smartphone mount provides a solution for seated or standing content without taking up tons of real estate in your bag. If you already have stands and lights, then a Benro MeVIDEO SideKick Pocket smartphone holder is a simple way to steady your smartphone. No content creation setup is complete without the necessary accessories. Luckily, Sweetwater has just about every content creator accessory you can dream up.
Your Phone Can Be a Content Creation Studio!
A smartphone is enough to launch a successful online career on TikTok, Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, or anywhere else. Check out our content creator page to see more of our content creator gear? If you’re ready to start your content creation journey but aren’t sure where to start or what gear you need, then one of our friendly Sweetwater Sales Engineers is standing by to help. So, go ahead and call them at (800) 222-4700 — they’re happy to help you design the ideal cell phone–centered content creation studio in a flash.