Often times we watch videos on youtube or watch you tubers vlogs where they showcase behind the scenes of some of their videos, and their camera equipment looks so incredible, and expensive! We often think that we need all that fancy and expensive gear to be able to put a good video together but we really don’t. nowadays most smart phones are more than adequate, we just need to edit the video well and showcase a good story or something really eye catching and entertaining.
Creating cinematic visuals doesn’t require an expensive camera setup anymore—your smartphone can be a powerful tool in your pocket. With the right framing, lighting, and intentional camera movements, you can capture sequences that feel polished and professional. Techniques like using natural light during golden hour, stabilizing your shots by bracing your phone or using a gimbal, and experimenting with slow-motion or wide-angle features all add depth and drama to everyday moments.
The key is planning your sequence with a story in mind—think about what you want your audience to feel and guide each shot toward that emotion.
Once you’ve captured your footage, the editing process ties it all together. This is where apps like a collage maker come in handy, not just for photos but also for creating engaging visuals that complement your cinematic sequence. You can stitch stills from your video into mood boards, behind-the-scenes collages, or even highlight reels that help your audience experience the creative process. Combining video storytelling with these visual aids makes your smartphone-shot sequence feel more intentional, engaging, and shareable.
Peter Lindgren shows just that in this behind the scene video of how he films a quick, cool upbeat fitness video with just his smartphone!