I’ve struggled with this for the past 2 months while trying to make original vlog posts for Car-tel Communications. Any smartphone can take video, and newer models can even support 4K, but universal access to video means creating something that attracts more than 10 views on Youtube requires creativity and a unique style.

What you need is $60, an amazon account, and a safe place for your mailman (or woman) to store your precious cargo. The most important piece of equipment is your tripod, because shaky video is terrible video. Amazon recently started to produce their own line of products under the AmazonBasics tagline, and their tripod is top-notch. For under $25 dollars, this 60” tripod is a steal.

Unfortunately, phones do not screw in to tripod mounts like traditional cameras, so you will need to get an adjustable phone adapter. I picked this one because it was recommended for the AmazonBasics tripod. If you made it this far and are thinking, “this only takes horizontal video, and I want vertical video,” we politely ask you to leave now and pick up a different hobby like bird-watching or knitting.

Next, and probably the most important component to creating your own style, is clip on phone lenses. They used to be gimmicks, but now companies like Samsung are jumping into the mobile lens arena because consumers are buying in droves. I like the MPOW 3-in-1 Lens Kit because it comes with a wide angle, macro, and fisheye lens as well as a microfiber cloth and two clips.

Now that you have spectacular video, you need great audio to match. Without purchasing a boom mic, XLR cables, and a recorder, great audio in the field is hard to come by. However, if you are vlogging or interviewing, a good lapel mic connected to the right android app can get the job done. I went with the Royal Voice Lapel Mic connected to the WavePad android app. Bring a friend, borrow their phone, connect the mic and throw it in your pocket. If you adjust the level inside the app your audio should come through crystal clear.

Now that you have the gear, it’s time to practice. With a great idea and the right lighting, you should become a YouTube sensation in no time. And while you are lounging in your golden vlogging throne, don’t forget F24 helped you get there!

TL;DR

For optimal mobile video, consider a $60 investment in:

1. This 60” Tripod
2. Tripod Phone Adapter
3. MPOW 3-in-1 Lens Kit
4. Royal Voice Lapel Mic and WavePad android app

The post Great Video for Under $60 appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.

Both options offer a range of audio quality, but always limit what you can hear of your surroundings. Now this might sound great if you’re sitting next to a baby on an airplane, however, what if you’re biking through a crowded city? Or hiking next to a winding river in beautiful windy canyon? You may end up missing out on calming nature sounds or the honk of a crazed city driver.

Science has come through once again with a new audio option that allows you to listen to your favorite tunes without blocking out the sound around you. They are called Bone conducting headphones. Yes, you read that correctly. Instead of covering up your precious ear-holes, the AfterShokz Bluez 2S use your cheekbones to communicate with your inner-ear bone. By sending the sound vibrations through your cheekbone, you can leave your ears open to your surroundings. The coolest part is that you can plug up your ears and you will actually hear your music better!

You’re probably thinking, “that sounds cool and all, but I bet the sound quality is pretty low.” I was in the same boat, thinking that the quality will get lost when communicating through the density of my skull. So I purchased a Bluez 2S a while back and have found myself coming back to them again and again (to the point of listening to them while writing this.) I was skeptical before, but I am a believer now. The sound quality is great, with high treble coming through spectacularly and low bass less so, but still equivalent to other in-ear headphones in the $99 price range. The volume range is extraordinary, with only the faintest buzzing audible by others at high volume in a quiet room.

I thought I would be using these while I bike around downtown Philadelphia, or at least while working-out. However, their most useful application is in the office. I have two co-workers who enjoy politely playing classic rock at low volume on either side of me. During those not so rare stretches where the office goes completely quiet, I feel like my brain is slowly turning to pudding from front to back. The AfterShokz have solved that problem while simultaneously allowing me to hear when the boss starts making his rounds, giving me enough time to close “non-essential” tabs.

The post AfterShokz Sends Music to Your Jawbone appeared first on FactoryTwoFour.