Use a smartphone video rig to get the most out of all your smartphone video filming accessories. You have your smartphone lenses, your external audio recording devices, and your external lights, but where are you going to put it all? If you are thinking “that seems like a lot of stuff to attach to a device that fits in the palm of your hand”, you are correct. Fear not, though, because another thoughtful invention exists, and that is the smartphone video rig.

Using a rig is commonplace for those using smaller cameras such as DSLRs. However, now that the iPhone or Samsung Galaxy has the camera-power of a much more expensive device, a scaled down version of the standard camera rig was bound to come around. These rigs are great because not only do they put all of your equipment into on contraption, but the shape of the rigs is easy to hold, and always you to get more dynamic shots.

1. The Basic Rig

The U-Rig Pro by Ulanzi is your best bet for a smartphone video rig that is reliable and incredibly affordable. Just under $20 and available on Amazon Prime, this rig is a best seller for a reason. It has a universal tripod thread at the bottom, meaning you can attach this to almost any tripod. It has adjustable mounts to fit an sized smartphone. This rig also has space for your audio recording devices, external lights, and camera lenses. The reason it is so cheap is because it is simply a rig, and nothing more. Many smartphone video rigs come with some audio or lighting equipment built in. However, if you already have those products and just need something to hold it all together, this is your best bet.

Amazon Link: U-Rig Pro by Ulanzi

2. The Big Rig

This is the complete opposite of the basic rig, in that it comes with everything you need and more. The DJI OM 4 - Handheld 3-Axis Smartphone Gimbal Stabilizer with Grip Tripod is magnetic, ultra-compact, and bursting with easy-to-use features, including a magnetic phone clamp and ring holder for quick release, 3-Axis stabilization and their ActiveTrack 3.0 technology. Customers are raving about their DynamicZoom - a mind-boggling “Hitchcock effect,” a creative zoom shot that delivers a Hollywood feel with minimal effort. Advanced algorithms know what to do, so all you have to do is tap and walk.

Amazon Link: The Big Rig

3. Extreme Movement Rig

The move MicRig Extreme Sport Edition is perfect for any scene that involves heavy movement. While smartphone video rigs that have a handle for both hands are more ideal for most shots, this rig is a clever deal to add to your inventory. The reason this one-handed rig is so good for movement is because you can easily hold it out in front of you if you need to run while filming. Same goes with holding it out while filming side-on of a moving subject. Whether it’s extreme sports, someone running away, or any other scene which calls for movement, this rig is perfect. It comes with a built in microphone, so there is no risk of the mic popping off if you move too sharply. As an added bonus, this rig also provides a clip-on 180 degree fisheye lens. Just under $70 and a member of the Prime family on Amazon, this smartphone video rig is a great addition to any film set.

Amazon Link: Extreme Movement Rig

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About the Author

Sam Klein is a writer, producer, and director based in Los Angeles, CA. He is a member of the Producers Guild of America, has written and directed shorts that have been in festivals around the country, wrote the ‘Hipsters” series for Youtube star Anna Akana, directed internationally distributed commercials for Dunlop, and is a staff producer for Tennis Channel’s original content department.