Best Budget Smartphone Filmmaking Gear Under $100
If you’ve got a smartphone and you’re looking to level up your films and videos, there are plenty of affordable accessories that can make a huge difference.
From lenses to microphones, cases, and filters, there’s a lot you can do to enhance your mobile filmmaking experience without breaking the bank.
Hopefully you will find what follows helpful as we take a dive into some of the best accessories you can get for under $100 to help you create professional-looking videos.
Crisp and Clear Audio With A Wireless Microphone
Good audio is just as important as good visuals. A wireless microphone can make a significant difference in the sound quality of your videos.
The Boya Wireless Microphone is reliable and easy to use, and comes with a transmitter and receiver.
The Hollyland Lark is a bit pricier at around $100, but offers dual microphones and high-quality audio transmission. The only downside is the noticeable branding on the microphones.
It’s All In The Case!
A good smartphone case is essential, but if you’re serious about mobile filmmaking, not just any case will do. You will need one that is designed to attach various accessories, such as lenses and microphones, making your smartphone far more versatile for video production. These ones typically cost around $30.
Moment Case: Known for its robust build and compatibility with various lenses.
Freewell Case: Another excellent option that supports multiple add-on lenses.
Using a filmmaking case allows you to quickly swap out accessories without the hassle of removing your phone from a standard case. This efficiency is crucial during shoots, saving you time and effort.
Transform Your Smartphone’s Camera With A Lens
Adding lenses to your smartphone can dramatically change the look and feel of your videos. Here are some of the top lenses to consider:
Anamorphic Lens
An anamorphic lens is a fantastic tool for achieving a cinematic look. It offers a wider field of view and creates characteristic blue streaks when filming lights, reminiscent of many Hollywood films. They also feature a wider aspect ratio, unique cinematic effects and fits more into your frame
Wide Angle and Telephoto Lenses
For those looking to enhance the quality of their shots further you could think about a wide angle lens. An 18mm Wide Angle Lens is great for capturing expansive scenes without compromising on image quality.
Where as a 58mm Telephoto Lens is perfect for closer shots with better detail and clarity.
These lenses ensure you’re using the best possible resolution by attaching to the smartphone’s primary lens, which generally has the highest quality.
Get Smooth and Stable Footage With A Gimbal
Even with modern smartphones boasting excellent image stabilisation, a gimbal can significantly improve your footage by offering smoother shots and additional features.
The Hohem iSteady V3 is Just over $100, but packed with features such as an extension pole, built-in tripod, AI tracking, and gesture control. It’s compact, foldable, and great value for money. While this gimbal has a few limitations, such as a limited tilt axis and a maximum payload of 300g, it’s still an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Unusual but Incredibly Useful Accessories
Sometimes, it’s the smaller, less obvious accessories that can make the biggest difference in your filmmaking process. So you should also consider a smartphone holder or clamp. A versatile smartphone holder or clamp is essential for attaching your smartphone to various mounts and tripods.
Ulanzi All-Metal Clamp is a great durable and reliable clamp, unlike cheaper plastic versions.
A Neck Mount is ideal for POV shots and behind-the-scenes footage.
A Bendy Tripod is a great flexible choice and can be attached to almost anything for creative angles.
Portable Lights
Lighting is crucial for good video quality. A small, versatile light can be a game-changer.
The Gardox Tube light is an RGB light that’s compact and easy to travel with. It’s bright enough to be used as a key light and offers various colour options.
External Battery Packs
To keep your phone charged during long shoots, an external battery pack is essential.
There are various options available but choose one that suits your needs, whether it’s a MagSafe model or a standard USB connection. Always have a couple of these handy to ensure you never run out of power.
The INIU Power Bank is a good choice and packs a huge 20000mAh of fast charging power. It comes with a USB-C input, two USB inputs and can charge you smartphone in about 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Upgrading your smartphone filmmaking setup doesn’t have to be expensive. With the right accessories, you can significantly enhance the quality of your videos for under $100. From specialised cases and lenses to gimbals, microphones, and more, these tools will help you create professional-looking content that stands out. So, invest in these accessories, experiment with your shots, and take your mobile filmmaking to the next level. Happy shooting!
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