All of the equipment on this list has been tested by the team at OpenReel. You will find recommended equipment for both iPhone/iPad recording and Webcam recording.

NOTE: You don't need to send your subject equipment, but it will improve the quality of your shot.

The most basic option for capturing audio is through the phone’s native microphone. Adding a lav mic to your setup will have an immediate impact on the quality of audio you capture. You must use a TRRS LAV microphone and a Lightning adapter.

Pop Voice Lav Mic:

The OR Capture 1.0 app can work with most wired, smartphone compatible, mics. The Pop Voice Mic is one we really like. This lav microphone’s wire is 9.5 feet, which gives you a lot of slack to creatively frame a shot. Compatible microphones must have a 3.5mm connection (TRRS to lightning adapter) and must be powered by the phone.

Note: Self battery powered mics are not compatible with OR Capture

Other Recommended Mics

Apple Lightning Adapter:

When Apple released the iPhone 7 in 2016 they stopped making phones with 3.5mm headphone jacks. In order to plug a lav mic or any audio device into your iPhone you need this handy lightning adapter, known to many as a “dongle”. We HIGHLY encourage you to buy these directly from Apple.

Tripods/Mounts

Stabilize your shot with tripods! Ever watch a video that makes you feel car sick? A simple tripod solution will give your subject a place to prop their phone, and give you, the director, more control over framing the shot.

NOTE: Your subject can use the equipment they already have (built-in laptop webcam & microphone). For more tips on setting up a WebCam Video shoot & when to use equipment take a look at this article: Tips of Filming Great WebCam Videos

Your subject can use a simple headset, or they can connect an external USB microphone. Wireless microphones can also be used for Webcam recordings (another use for your subject's AirPods!)

Your camera phone loves great natural lighting. While amazing ambient light can be used to create a beautiful shot, we’ve included below a few simple lighting options that can easily be shipped or shared with your subjects. Again, these are more basic options; if you have a full studio with 12 different lights, you’re already set!