stop waiting, just hit record

By Bill Jackson August 19, 2026 1 mins read 786091 Views

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Hey friends, in this video I’m walking you through how to film yourself using literally just your phone (no fancy kit required) based on the little tips and rules of thumb I’ve picked up over the last eight years of making videos. We’ll cover the stuff that makes the biggest difference, like getting nice soft light from a window, keeping your lines straight, making your background a bit more interesting, and choosing the right lens/framing so it feels natural. Hope you enjoy xx

🔗 LINKS MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO

Peak Design Mobile Tripod - https://geni.us/V5WTGhd
Mantis Pod Pro - https://geni.us/TKVS
Dbrand Palettes by Ali Abdaal - https://dbrand.com/shop/limited-edition/palettes
Apple Wired EarPods (Lightning) - https://geni.us/HqzvxT
Apple Wired EarPods (USB-C) - https://geni.us/5Wbqr
Elgato Wave Neo - https://geni.us/ugcgAZ
Sony ECM-W3 - https://geni.us/CPYf
Sony ZV-E1 - https://geni.us/gUd6VV

⌚️ TIMESTAMPS

00:00 - Introduction
00:33 - Lighting, Background and Positioning
02:40 - Filming Handheld
05:56 - Tripods & Stabilisation
09:58 - Frame Rates and Pro Modes
11:27 - What Focal Lengths to Use
13:38 - Audio
16:29 - Setting Up the Shot
22:20 - Authenticity vs Production Value

PS: I donate 10% of my income to charity every year. Would you like to join me? Learn more about the 10% Pledge: https://aliabdaal.com/giving-what-we-can/