Quick tip for anyone shooting video on a phone or entry-level camera:

The #1 thing separating amateur footage from professional footage isn't the camera — it's light direction.

Most beginners light their subject head-on (light behind the camera, pointing straight at the face). It's flat and lifeless.

Instead, place your light source at a 45-degree angle to your subject. This creates dimension — a slight shadow on one side of the face that makes the shot feel three-dimensional instead of flat.

Even better: if you're near a window, turn your subject so the window light hits them at that 45-degree angle instead of shooting with the window behind you. Free, instant upgrade.

Try it on your next shot and compare it to your usual setup — the difference is night and day.