Mobile device cameras have greatly advanced in recent years: you can now record 4k video and time-lapses, use filter presets, and even edit footage directly on the phone. However, you need to get mobile video lighting to ensure the best video results. It illuminates the subject and scene to ensure good visuals, especially in low-light conditions, helps content creators to tell a story, and improves the viewers’ experience and engagement.
Why do you need mobile video light?
Smartphone cameras are low in dynamic range and have tiny image sensors. Shooting in low-light conditions will result in blurry, low-quality footage, so aim to capture your video in well-lit places. Furthermore, auto exposure on mobile phones is generally sluggish to adjust when switching from one scene to the next, so keep this in mind when transitioning from dark to bright locations.
In this way, lights for mobile video recording are a must. They offer consistent illumination in different scenarios, allowing the camera to work normally. In addition, you can set it in various color temperatures to build the mood. This helps you express specific messages. If you intend to shoot in low-light circumstances, acquire a tiny light like the COLBOR PL5 to connect to your phone.
How to choose the best one: 6 factors to consider
There are several factors we consider when choosing the best mobile video lighting.
LED beads: The quantity of LED beads in a mobile video light might influence its brightness. The more beads you have, the brighter your footage will be.
Color temperature: The color temperature must be determined. We recommend that you seek a wide range of color temperatures. Because it will supply you with both cold and warm light options to complement the ambient light in which you are shooting.
Power source: The power supply will allow for a diverse setup and will aid in capturing both inside and outdoor videos.
Modifiers: Modifiers act as diffusers, softening filters and changing the color temperature. Check to see whether any modifiers are included in the package.
Wireless control: Bluetooth technology in LED light for mobile video shooting will aid in connecting to a smartphone. It can also remotely adjust settings such as color temperature and brightness.
Construction: It is advised to invest in a mobile video light that is well-made and will endure a long time. And it should be portable enough to be carried about for mobile video shooting.
How to set light for mobile video recording?
Here are several steps you can follow to get mobile video lighting.
Make the most of natural light. If you're filming outside, avoid direct sunlight and choose a shady space. Use windows or skylights to bring in natural light if filming indoors. Natural light has a balanced color temperature and may give your subject a gentle and attractive look.
Select a lighting setup that works well for your needs and budget. You may utilize a variety of lights, including key lights, fill lights, rim lights, and background lights. To explain them in short, key means it is the main light source to illuminate the subject; fill lights fill in the shadows cast by the key light; rim lights divide your subject from the background; background lights illuminate the background and add depth. You can choose one from them or combine some of them together according to your lighting purpose of the mobile video recording.
Adjust your lights' color temperature and brightness to create the atmosphere and effect you want. Kelvin (K) is used to measure color temperature and describes how warm or cool light looks. Cool light has a higher kelvin value and a yellowish hue, whereas warm light has a lower kelvin value and a yellowish hue. It is also needed to adjust the brightness to ensure proper exposure. In general, you want enough light to expose your subject adequately, but not so much that it creates overexposure or glare.
Adjust the position and angle of mobile video lighting to achieve the greatest effect and minimize unwanted shadows. The position and angle can have an impact on how your subject and backdrop seem in your mobile video recording. Different lighting methods may be used to achieve various effects.