Video Content 101: How to Capture Professional-Looking Footage In-House
It’s no secret—video is the undisputed king of content online. Your audience doesn’t just enjoy it; they expect it. According to Forbes, 90% of users say that product videos help them make purchasing decisions. And when video is included in email campaigns, click-through rates can increase by 200–300%. Translation? If you’re not using video as part of your marketing strategy, you’re leaving opportunity on the table.
The good news? You don’t need a full production crew to start. Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a DSLR, it’s possible to create professional-looking footage in-house—with the right approach.
Let’s walk through the basics.
🎥 Option 1: Your Smartphone
Chances are, you already have a solid video tool in your pocket. Today’s smartphones are capable of capturing high-quality footage—if you know how to use them effectively.
Tips to elevate your smartphone video:
- Shoot horizontally.
Unless you’re filming for TikTok or Instagram Stories, turn your phone sideways. This prevents those black bars on the sides and gives you footage that works across multiple platforms. - Use a tripod.
A small investment in a tripod (plus a smartphone adapter) can make a huge difference in stabilizing your video. No tripod? Prop your phone on a stack of books or keep it close to your body to reduce shakiness. - Avoid digital zoom.
Zooming in with your phone pixelates the footage. Instead, physically move closer to your subject for a sharper shot. - Tap to focus.
Before recording, tap your screen to lock focus on the subject—no one wants a blurry talking head. - Check your settings.
Set your camera to shoot in 1080p or higher if your phone allows. You’ll get crisper footage without eating up too much storage.
📸 Option 2: DSLR Camera
If someone on your team has a DSLR camera—or if you’ve been considering investing in one—you can take your video quality to the next level. Just be prepared for a slightly steeper learning curve.
Tips for DSLR footage:
- Tripod = non-negotiable.
Even with a fancy camera, shaky footage ruins the shot. Use a tripod every time. - Mind your focus.
DSLRs often require manual adjustments. Make sure the subject is sharp before you hit record. - Get smart about lighting.
Harsh sunlight or low-light settings can sabotage even the best footage. If you’re not ready to mess with settings like ISO or aperture, shoot in soft, natural light (cloudy days are perfect) and avoid bright light sources directly behind your subject.
🎧 Bonus Tips for Any Device
No matter what you’re using to shoot, these finishing touches can make or break the final result:
- Watch your audio.
Background noise—traffic, wind, HVAC units—can drown out your subject. Record in a quiet location when possible. If you’re using your phone or camera’s built-in mic, get physically closer to your subject for cleaner sound. - Frame it right.
Choose a clean, uncluttered background. Pay attention to lighting and composition—make sure your subject isn’t too far away or awkwardly positioned.
Final Thoughts
Video marketing isn’t optional anymore—it’s essential. And while professional production has its place, there’s absolutely a way to create effective video content in-house. With a few tools, the right setup, and a little practice, your brand can show up online in a way that’s polished, powerful, and personal.
Need help turning your in-house footage into polished marketing content? FatCat Strategies can help. Let’s talk about how to make your videos work harder for your business.
