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- Stop buying camera gear (do this instead)
Stop buying camera gear (do this instead)
You know those creators whose videos just look... professional?
The ones that make you think they've got some fancy setup?
Most of the time, they're shooting with the same gear you have.
They just know a few key things about making content feel premium. 👇
Sound
First up, let's talk about something most people overlook - sound.
Good audio will make a phone video feel like a movie.
Bad audio will make expensive footage feel cheap.
Here's what's interesting: it's not about having the best microphone.
It's about understanding how to use sound layers.
Think about your favourite creators' videos.
Notice how there's usually background music, maybe some subtle sound effects, and clear voice audio?
That's not random.
Even with just your phone, you can create depth by:
Adding a music bed that matches your video's energy
Using subtle ambient sounds to create atmosphere
Making sure any dialogue or voiceover sits clearly above other audio
Movement
Ever noticed how premium content feels smooth?
Even handheld shots have a certain flow to them.
Try this: instead of moving the camera, move around your subject.
Walk around things rather than panning.
If you need to move up or down, physically crouch or stand rather than tilting your phone.
These simple changes make your footage feel intentional rather than shaky.
Colour
Here's something that can instantly elevate your content: understanding colour.
I'm not talking about fancy colour grading - I'm talking about what you capture in camera.
Before you hit record, look at your scene.
What colours are fighting for attention?
Can you remove anything that doesn't match your vibe?
Sometimes, just moving a bright orange cup out of frame can make your whole shot feel more professional.
Angles
Camera angles can make or break your video's premium feel.
But here's what most people get wrong - they try to get fancy with weird angles when simple ones often look better.
Think about eye level versus slightly below or above.
Each height tells a different story:
Below eye level can make subjects feel powerful
Above can make scenes feel more vulnerable
Dead-on eye level feels personal and direct
Lighting
Good lighting can make a phone video look like it was shot on cinema gear.
Bad lighting can make expensive cameras look amateur.
But good lighting doesn't mean buying expensive lights.
Start thinking about where your light sources are.
Is the main light coming from behind your subject?
Move them. Is there harsh overhead lighting?
Try facing a window instead.
Editing
Here's something crucial: expensive-looking content often has simpler editing than you'd expect.
Let your content breathe.
Don't feel like you need to fill every second with action.
Sometimes, a deliberate pause feels more premium than a flashy transition.
The key takeaway from today
Make intentional choices that improve what you've got.
Focus on one element at a time.
Maybe this week you nail your audio layers.
Next week, work on your movements.
What aspect of production value matters most to you? |
Now, before you go off to create your next viral hit, can I ask you for a favour? It'll take you 20 seconds, tops.
Think of that mate of yours. You know the one - always posting, grinding hard, but maybe not seeing the results they deserve.
Send them this link: Viral Academy Newsletter
Tell them, "You need to get on this. You're getting a mini-masterclass in content creation - in your pocket (all for free)"
Why am I asking this? Simple. If you're finding these newsletters valuable (and I hope you are), why not do something nice for a friend? Help them level up their content game, absolutely free.
I want to help as many people as possible with these newsletters so I’ll keep making them for you and I would really appreciate it if you shared with even just one friend.
Until next time,
Jeremy
Don't forget to use the tips from my past 28 newsletters to keep improving. (Missed an issue? Catch up here).
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