Trends in technology and on social media come and go. But some stick around and remain popular for years on end, like Instagram Reels and TikTok videos. With their fast-paced, addictive nature, it’s no surprise that both have maintained their popularity.
And while anyone with a smartphone can make a video, there are gadgets for TikToks and Reels that can help elevate your content from beginner to pro. Check out our favorite tech and gear to help make TikTok videos and Reels on Instagram.
1. The Right Smartphone
The most important gadget for TikToks and Reels is a smartphone with a high-quality camera. The vast majority of video creators use their smartphones to produce their masterpieces. And while just about any phone with a camera will do, if you want your videos to look professional, you’ll want the latest smartphone with the best camera.
Of course, smartphones and their cameras are constantly improving. So, determine your budget and then research the newest technology from the top smartphone brands like Apple, Google, and Samsung.
Allstate Protection Plans recently put the new Samsung Galaxy S21 and iPhone 12 through a series of durability tests to see if the phones can handle the drops and spills of everyday life. You’ll want to make sure the smartphone—and its camera—that you choose will last.
2. Stabilization Gadgets
Whether you’re on a bike, performing parkour, or doing your take on the latest dance craze, you want your video to be silky smooth. That’s why it’s so important to buy stabilization gadgets for TikTok and Reels. We recommend investing in a gimbal. This gadget stabilizes your phone and reduces any shakiness when you’re on the move.
If you’re looking to set your phone up in a stationary position, we recommend a stand or tripod. Not only do stationary videos need stabilization too, a tripod or stand will free up one of your hands while you’re on camera.
3. Portable Lighting
Want to know one of the main reasons a pro’s videos look so much better than a beginner’s? We’ll give you a hint—it’s not always the quality of the camera or the creator’s years of experience. It’s all in the lights.
Investing in additional lights that attach to your smartphone can really up your TikTok game. These extra lights provide proper lighting even when the environment isn’t the best for filming. You may still want to study how lighting affects videography. But even if you just incorporate an attachable light to your gear, the quality of your videos will definitely improve.
4. Filters & Lenses
Enhancing the quality of your videos is one of the best ways to increase your exposure and get more interaction on your posts. When it comes to choosing gadgets for TikTok and Reels, filters and lenses for your camera can improve quality and make your content stand out from the crowd.
From putting a funky twist on your camera’s perspective to toning down the highlights in those mid-day shots, the right filters and lenses can take your Reels and TikToks to the upper echelons of content creation.
5. Audio Enhancements
Sure, the main attraction of Instagram Reels and TikTok videos is the visual element. But you shouldn’t overlook your video’s audio if you want to be a pro.
Some of your videos may not need crystal-clear sound—if you’re overlaying a song, for example. But, if you spend any amount of time talking to the camera or your videos include organic sounds, investing in an external mic will completely change the quality of your videos.
6. Stylize Your Video With a Backdrop
If you really want your Instagram Reels or TikTok videos to go viral, you have to find creative ways to be unique. Backdrops may not be as high-tech as some of the other gadgets for TikTok and Reels listed above, but they can give your videos a certain pop.
Stylizing the background of your video is an easy way to make your Instagram Reels and TikTok videos more interesting. And you have options —you can buy a backdrop or design your own. You may even create some brand recognition by becoming known for certain backgrounds.
Whether you go for all six or just one, these gadgets for TikToks and Reels will level up your content creation. With just a little bit of tech help, you’ll be pumping out quality videos that get tons of attention in no time.