91�ȱ�

91�ȱ� Teach > Young Reporter > Resources

In the past few years there have been a lot of changes to how journalists make and break news stories. Thanks to mobile technology most of us have a video camera in our pocket so you don't need hi-tech equipment to make good-quality videos.

Film-makers are producing documentaries and feature films on smartphones, and you can do the same. You and your students can shoot and edit on a smartphone or tablet.

There are safeguarding issues in storing footage on a phone or tablet, so check your school policy before you start. You can use an old phone without a SIM card as a camera and connect it to your school wi-fi to export the video.

You can also film on tablets and a range of other devices which have the features of a smartphone - except the ability to make a call!

Here are some top tips:

• Use airplane mode - you don’t want to be interrupted by calls, messages or alerts.
• Battery - start with a full battery and take a portable battery pack.
• Storage - videos use a lot of space so make sure you have enough memory.
• Focus - tap ‘lock your focus,’ holding the part of the screen where you want it to be.
• Stability - use both hands, a selfie stick or a portable tripod.
• Zoom - move closer, for better quality, rather than using the zoom.
• Sound - move closer or use the smartphone headphones as a microphone.
• Light - record in a location where there is as much light as possible.
• Wipe your lens - clean your lens with a lint free cloth to avoid marks on your video.