Taking videos without holding your phone can be useful for capturing hands-free videos or videos from unique angles. There are a few different ways to take snap videos without physically holding your phone:
- Using a tripod and mount
- Propping your phone against objects
- Using a timer
- Using your voice
- Using a smartwatch
The method you choose will depend on the type of video you want to capture and your specific needs. A tripod allows the most flexibility and stability but requires extra equipment. Propping your phone against objects is the most accessible option, while using a timer, your voice, or a linked smartwatch can enable hands-free selfie videos. We’ll explore each option in more detail.
Using a Tripod and Mount
The most stable and versatile way to take snap videos without holding your phone is to use a tripod and a phone mount. This allows you to position your phone securely at any height and angle.
To do this:
- Get a tripod. Any standard tripod with adjustable height and pivoting head will work. Look for one that is sturdy but still lightweight and portable.
- Get a phone mount. This is a clip or clamp accessory that securely attaches your phone to the tripod. Make sure to get one that fits your specific phone model.
- Attach the phone mount to the tripod. Position and adjust the angle as needed.
- Place your phone into the mount, ensuring it is secured.
- Position the tripod and angle the camera as desired.
- Record your snap video hands-free.
The advantages of using a tripod and mount are:
- Provides a stable, fixed base for crisp, clear videos.
- Allows you to set unique angles and perspectives.
- Hands-free operation frees you up to perform in the video.
- Can position camera at any height for overhead shots.
- Easily adjustable and customizable positioning.
Potential downsides are:
- Requires carrying extra equipment.
- Set-up takes more time versus quick phone propping.
- Less portable than phone-only methods.
But for dedicated snap video creators, a tripod kit provides versatility and reliability that can be worth the small trade-offs.
Propping Your Phone Against Objects
If you want a quick hands-free option without any extra gear, try propping your phone against handy objects in your environment. With some creativity, you can find ways to securely stand your phone for stable video recording.
Some objects to try propping your phone against:
- Books or boxes
- Water bottles or coffee mugs
- Plants or vases
- Desktop computer monitors
- Walls, cabinets, shelves
- Trees, fences, benches (outdoors)
Tips for propping your phone:
- Use sticky tack or rubber bands to firmly attach and stabilize.
- Lean it against the object at an angle for best support.
- Use different heights for varied camera angles.
- Make sure the camera lens in unobstructed.
- Test stability before recording.
The pros of using everyday objects are:
- Quick and easy hands-free setup.
- Convenient for spur-of-the-moment video capture.
- Doesn’t require any extra equipment or expense.
- Easily portable – use your surroundings wherever you are.
Some limitations to be aware of:
- Less stable than fixed tripod.
- Restricted in camera angle options.
- Objects can obstruct background.
- May fall over if bumped or leaned on.
But for casual use, propping against common objects can be a handy method to take quick snap videos without holding your phone. Get creative with your makeshift tripod!
Using a Timer
Another easy hands-free solution is using your phone’s built-in timer to take videos without holding it. Here’s how:
- Open the Snapchat app (or camera app).
- Select video mode.
- Tap the timer icon (clock symbol).
- Choose your desired timer delay – 3 seconds, 5 seconds, 10 seconds.
- Position and angle your phone as needed.
- Tap record, then quickly move away.
- Video will start counting down and begin recording automatically.
Benefits of using the timer function:
- Completely hands-free operation.
- Can be used anywhere – no extra equipment.
- Great for solo selfie videos.
- Allows time to get in position or prepare prop.
- Most phone cameras have this built-in feature.
Potential limitations:
- Phone must be propped or positioned in advance.
- No ability to pan or move camera once started.
- Timer sound may be picked up in video audio.
- Only works for static shots from fixed angles.
Using your phone’s timer can be a simple solution for basic hands-free videos if you just need to start and stop recording without holding your device. Play around with timer lengths and angles to see what works best for your videos.
Using Your Voice
Many smartphones now offer voice-activated features that allow you to control your phone hands-free using voice commands. You can use these voice commands to start and stop recording Snapchat videos on your phone, without having to touch it.
Here’s how to use your voice to take hands-free videos:
- Make sure voice commands are enabled on your phone.
- Angle and position your phone as desired.
- Say your wake command to activate voice assistant – “Hey Siri”, “OK Google”, “Alexa”, etc.
- Say “Open Snapchat” or “Open Camera.”
- Say “Start recording video” or “Take a video.”
- Perform or present your video as planned.
- Say “Stop recording”, “Stop video”, or “End video.”
Advantages of using voice commands:
- Truly hands-free operation.
- Convenient for solo selfie videos.
- Easy start and stop on command.
- Natural for vlogging-style videos.
Some limitations to consider:
- Drain on battery from voice assistant activity.
- Potential errors in speech recognition.
- May pick up commands in video audio.
- Only works in quiet environments.
With practice, voice commands can become a seamless way to control your phone’s camera hands-free. Just make sure you annunciate clearly when speaking your start and stop commands.
Using a Smartwatch
If you own a smartwatch compatible with your smartphone, you can use it as a remote controller to start and stop recording Snapchat videos from your phone’s camera. Here’s how:
- Set up connection between smartwatch and phone.
- Install phone camera remote control app on watch.
- Position phone camera and angle as desired.
- Use watch app buttons to start/stop video recording remotely.
Key benefits of using a smartwatch:
- True hands-free remote operation.
- Convenient wrist-based camera control.
- Start and stop recording from a distance.
- Selfie videos with watch as prop in frame.
- Leave phone stationary in optimal position.
Potential limitations:
- Requires owning a compatible smartwatch.
- Complex initial setup.
- Drains smartwatch battery life.
- Connection could be spotty.
While using a smartwatch adds some extra steps, it can be a powerful hands-free option if you already own a watch and want remote Snapchat video capabilities. Expand your creativity with angles and motion.
Comparing the Hands-Free Options
To recap, here are the key advantages and limitations of each method for taking Snapchat videos without holding your phone:
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Tripod Mount | – Stable, adjustable angles – Mobile setup – Full control while recording |
– Requires equipment – Time to setup – Less portable |
| Propped Against Objects | – Quick, simple setup – No extra equipment – Portable convenience |
– Unstable – Limited angles – Potential obstructions |
| Phone Timer | – Built-in hands-free – Solo selfie capable – Easy start/stop |
– Limited angles – No movement once started – Timer noise |
| Voice Commands | – Truly hands-free – Conversational for vlogs – Easy start and stop |
– Battery drain – Speech recognition errors – Background noise |
| Smartwatch | – Remote operation – New angles and motion – Full control |
– Requires smartwatch – Complex setup – Potential connectivity issues |
As you can see, each method has its own advantages and limitations to consider based on your needs. The right choice depends on the video content, shooting environment, desired angles and motion, and convenience.
Tips for Shooting Hands-Free Videos
Once you’ve chosen your hands-free recording method, keep these tips in mind for capturing great looking Snapchat videos:
- Check lighting and eliminate backlight or shadows on your subject.
- Frame your shot carefully and intentionally.
- Choose an interesting background that enhances your video.
- Get creative with special angles – low, high, swooping.
- Use a stabilizer or tripod for smoother motion.
- Make sure audio is clear and not obscured.
- Test and practice your setup prior to recording.
- Keep it short and engaging – trim longer content.
- Have fun hands-free! Move, dance, perform.
Taking your phone camera off its leash opens up a whole new world of possibilities. Just remember that a steady base, intentional framing, and compelling content will take your hands-free videos to the next level.
Unique Video Ideas Without Holding the Camera
Need inspiration for fun or creative videos to take without holding your phone? Consider these ideas:
- Dance videos showing full body choreo
- Walking tours or travelogue through scenic locations
- “Cooking show” recipes or food prep videos
- Yoga or fitness instructional videos
- Shopping hauls or room tours
- Skits or comedy sketches
- “Day in the Life” vlog content
- Unique angles like pets’ eye view
- Product reviews and demonstrations
- Experiments from overhead or side angles
- Vehicle tours – inside or outside cars, boats, etc.
Get inspired by the new angles and freedom that hands-free recording gives you. The possibilities are endless when you don’t have to hold your phone!
Conclusion
Recording Snapchat videos without holding your phone opens up a whole new world of possibilities.
With some simple tricks, accessories, or ingenuity, you can capture hands-free videos from virtually any angle.
Consider your options like tripods, smartwatches, voice commands, props, and timers to find the best hands-free method for your needs.
Get creative with your shot framing and content. The ability to move untethered from your phone will make your Snapchat videos stand out and engage your viewers. So grab your gear, set up your shot, and start rolling on your next hands-free snap video masterpiece!