If you’re shooting UGC (User-Generated Content) videos or presenter-style videos using your phone, this guide is for you. While I’m going to focus on iPhone camera settings, the principles apply to Android phones too—the options may be in different spots, but the core ideas are the same.
Let’s break down the best camera settings to make your phone videos look as sharp and professional as possible.
Use the Back Cameras, Not the Selfie Camera
Let’s start with the number one thing that most people overlook: always use the cameras on the back of your phone instead of the front-facing (selfie) camera.
Why?
- Video quality is significantly better with the rear cameras.
- The microphone is often better when using the back side.
- Rear cameras usually have better lenses, larger sensors, and better low-light performance.
Sure, it’s more convenient to see yourself while recording, but if you’re aiming for a polished look, the back camera is worth the extra effort. Set up your framing beforehand, maybe record a quick test, and then go for it.
Camera settings
Set Video Quality to 4K
Open your iPhone settings and go to:
Settings > Camera > Record Video
Choose the highest resolution your phone allows—ideally 4K.
Even if platforms like Instagram Reels recommend 1080×1920 resolution, starting with a higher resolution gives you a better final result. Social platforms compress video, but a high-quality source means even the compressed version will still look better.
Choose the Right Frame Rate (Usually 30fps)
When selecting frame rate:
- 30 fps is ideal for most social media content—it looks smooth and natural.
- 24 or 25 fps is standard for a more cinematic look.
- If a client requests a specific frame rate, always go with their specs.
To access 25 fps on iPhone, go to:
Settings > Camera > Record Video > Show PAL Formats
This will reveal 25 fps options if they aren’t already available.
Turn on HDR Video (If Available)
HDR (High Dynamic Range) improves the balance between highlights and shadows, making your footage look richer.
Go to:
Settings > Camera > Record Video > HDR Video → Turn it on
This is especially useful when shooting in natural light or high-contrast environments.
Adjust Audio Recording to Mono
By default, your iPhone records in stereo, which is great for ambient sound. But for speaking on camera, you should record in mono.
Why?
- Your voice comes from a single source (your mouth).
- Mono keeps the audio centered and more focused.
- It sounds cleaner, especially for professional or voice-driven content.
This setting is found in:
Settings > Camera > Record Sound → Set to Mono.
High Efficiency vs. Most Compatible (MOV vs. MP4)
To get the best results on your iPhone choose High Efficiency which uses the HEVC/H.265 codec and the files will be in .MOV. The HDR feature will also require you to shoot using this option.
Most compatible will use H.264 and you’ll end up with MP4 files. MP4 files are more widely supported – hence the name.
Keep in mind however, that a client might specify the format of the deliverables, so if they need MP4, Most Compatible will be your guy.
Skip RAW Formats (Unless You Know You Need Them)
Some iPhones allow you to shoot in Apple ProRes.
Pros:
- Much higher image quality
- More flexibility in post-production
Cons:
- Requires huge storage space
- Drains your phone battery
- Slower to transfer and edit
My recommendation: Only use these if a client specifically requests them or you need the absolute best quality for something high-end. For most UGC videos, standard 4K is more than enough.
In Camera options
Be Careful with Cinematic Mode
Cinematic Mode simulates a shallow depth of field by blurring the background. It can look cool—but only when used correctly.
Tips:
- Avoid using it if your background or foreground is busy.
- If the blur is too strong, you may see strange outlines around your hair or body.
- Use a higher f-stop (smaller blur) to avoid this issue.
Unless you’ve tested it and it looks flawless, it’s safer to stick with regular video mode.
Lock Exposure in the Camera App
Once you’re in the Camera app and ready to shoot:
Either;
Find the Exposure correction settings and adjust it with the slider.
Or;
- Tap on your face or subject to focus.
- Adjust the exposure using the sun icon.
- Hold your finger on the screen to lock the focus and exposure.
Why lock exposure?
If you move slightly or light changes, the phone might auto-adjust brightness—this causes distracting flickering. Locking exposure keeps everything consistent throughout your take.
Lighting is Everything
No setting can fix bad lighting.
- Shoot near a window or use soft lighting.
- Avoid overhead lights—they create harsh shadows.
- Don’t rely on phone night mode or digital brightening. It will add grain and reduce sharpness.
With good lighting, your footage will look clean and professional—even from a phone.
Other tips
Test Your Shot Before Recording
If you’re using the back camera (which you should), you won’t see yourself while recording. Here’s what you should do:
- Set up your frame and test the composition with a few trial clips.
- Use grid lines for better framing.
- Leave some headroom in case you need to crop, zoom, or add captions later.
- If possible, ask someone to help you frame the shot.
Avoid In-Camera Filters or Picture Profiles
As tempting as it might be, don’t use built-in filters or preset looks.
Why?
- They apply effects that can’t be undone in post-production.
- Clients usually want clean footage they can edit themselves.
- Filtered footage can look over-processed and less professional.
Always aim to capture clean, neutral-looking footage. You can always tweak contrast, color, or saturation later during editing.
Summary
These are the best iPhone camera settings I recommend for UGC and presenter-style content:
✅ Use the back camera
✅ Record in 4K
✅ Shoot at 30fps (or as required)
✅ Use mono audio for voice
✅ Skip RAW unless needed
✅ Lock your exposure
✅ Light your scene properly
✅ Avoid filters and effects
These small changes can seriously level up the quality of your phone videos.
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Until next time, happy shooting!
Film Yourself Academy 