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Well, we've all had that moment of seeing a beautiful landscape, pulling out our phone… and realizing the footage doesn't look the way we imagined. We think that without a drone, a €400 stabilizer, or a professional camera, it's not even worth trying. 

Wrong. Completely wrong.

Today I'm giving you the keys to capturing your best travel memories and even sharing them without a big budget (or if you're just starting out). The best memories you'll keep from your trips aren't necessarily filmed with the best gear they're filmed at the right moment, with the right habits. And for that, the phone in your pocket is more than enough.

Here are some tips and affordable gear to help you start filming your travels properly (and maybe even share them on social media).

1. The basics

Settings to know before you go

Before leaving, take 10 minutes to prepare your phone this is where 80% of your video quality comes from.

 - Resolution & frame rate: Film in 4K/30fps for smooth, cinematic shots. Switch to 1080p/60fps for fast movement (crowds, busy markets, action). 4K uses more storage, but the quality is worth it if you want to share on YouTube or TikTok.

- Lock exposure: On iPhone or Android, long-press your subject to lock focus and exposure so your sky doesn't suddenly blow out.

- Grid & straight horizons: Turn on the grid in camera settings to help keep your framing clean and balanced.

- Storage space: Clear your phone before traveling. Nothing worse than missing the perfect shot because your memory is full. A small USB stick compatible with your phone can also help. -> https://amzn.to/4dKkMAq around 15e

- Pro/Cinematic mode: If available, use it for background blur and a more "film-like" look. In low light, slightly increase ISO instead of using flash.

2. Light is your best free tool

No need for professional lighting if you know how to use natural light it can turn an average clip into something magical.

→ Golden hour : The hour after sunrise and before sunset gives warm, cinematic light.

→ Cloudy light : Soft and even, perfect for portraits and street scenes.

→ Backlighting  : Shooting into the light creates silhouettes and glowing effects.

→ Avoid midday sun : Harsh shadows and dull colors. Seek shade if needed.

→ Blue hour: Right after sunset, when the sky turns deep blue and city lights come alive, perfect for urban shots.

3. Filming without a stabilizer ?

Shaky footage is never great, especially if you want to share your videos.

-  human stabilizer : Keep your elbows close to your body and hold your breath for short shots. This position naturally reduces camera shake. Walk slowly with slightly bent knees to absorb each step smoothly. Personally, I use a chest harness it's inexpensive and helps avoid too much hand movement. -> https://amzn.to/4vy7AFg (For only 10e I found this free hand one) 

- Use any available support:  :a wall, a pole, a table, or even your knee. Anything that can act as a support will naturally stabilize your camera. For static shots, a mini travel tripod makes a huge difference. There are options for every budget, but I personally chose this one and it works very well. -> https://amzn.to/4vtnK2i 

- Film longer than you need : start recording a few seconds before the action and stop a few seconds after. This makes editing easier and gives you more usable footage.

4. Sound: the most forgotten element

A bad image with good sound is okay. A great image with bad sound is unwatchable. Sound is 50% of your video experience, especially if you plan to share it and it's the most underrated element when you're just starting out.

- External mic : A small external microphone that plugs into USB-C or a headphone jack makes a huge difference for voice-overs and outdoor sound recording. Personally, I chose this one. : https://amzn.to/4vtt6dU 

- Ambient recordings : Also, record "audio-only" clips: local markets, ocean waves, rain on rooftops. These sounds are very useful during editing. And if you don't have time, don't worry there are free sound libraries available. (on pixabay for example)  

- Wind protection : Your phone microphone picks up wind really strongly. Cover it with your hand, find a sheltered spot, or use a windscreen if you have an external mic like this one.   https://amzn.to/3PYsIUO the fur is a nice protection against the wind

- Royalty-free music : You can use platforms like YouTube Audio Library, Epidemic Sound, or Pixabay Audio. Never publish a video with copyrighted music if you want to monetize it or avoid having it blocked or muted.

5. Editing

No need for expensive software mobile apps are enough to start.

PS : this is my CapCut, where I have some template that you can use. 

6. Useful gear (optional)

I've already mentioned some of these above, but here's the list again of things to have when starting out with just your smartphone. Nothing is essential, but it's always good to have them:

→ Mini-tripod https://amzn.to/4d3IOEb

→ Stabilizer https://amzn.to/3Oy5gNH 

→ compact external mic  https://amzn.to/4vtt6dU  

→ Clip-on wide-angle lens  https://amzn.to/4dGbCVt 

→ Power bank  https://amzn.to/4tBMcNe 

→ USB stick  https://amzn.to/4dKkMAq 

→ Phone harness https://amzn.to/4vy7AFg 

→ Wind cover for mic   https://amzn.to/3PYsIUO 

The worst video you've ever filmed is infinitely better than the masterpiece you never recorded. Your memories fade over time. Whether for yourself or to share with others don't hesitate :)

I'm also sharing my new travel YouTube channel where I apply (or at least try to apply) all these rules.

Subscribe and give me your feedback (and feel free to share your own YouTube channels in the comments).

Thank for reading and see you soon

Ana of New Escapade