ZonaJakarta – Samsung phones, especially the Galaxy S and Z series, are packed with powerful camera features. From shooting in 8K to cinematic modes and manual video settings, these phones are pretty much a video studio in your pocket.
But just because the tools are there, doesn’t mean everyone knows how to use them like a pro. A lot of people still make simple mistakes that ruin what could’ve been amazing footage. Don’t worry—if you’re one of them, you’re not alone.
Here are some of the most common video mistakes Samsung users make—and how to fix them without needing a film degree.
1. Shooting in the Wrong Resolution or Frame Rate
Samsung lets you shoot up to 8K or super-smooth 60fps videos, but many people don’t explore these settings—or worse, choose high settings without knowing why. The result? Huge files that eat your storage and don’t always look better.
Fix it: Go to Camera > Settings > Video Size and pick the right one.
- For casual videos: 1080p at 30fps is perfect.
- For smooth motion: 60fps.
- For cinematic vibes: 4K at 24fps.
- Only use 8K if you really need ultra detail.
2. Overusing Digital Zoom
Zooming in by pinching the screen is tempting, but it’s basically cropping the image. This makes the video look grainy and pixelated—especially in low light.
Fix it: Use the phone’s built-in lenses (like the 3x or 10x optical zoom), or just move closer to your subject if possible.
3. Not Using Super Steady or Stabilization Features
Samsung phones come with great stabilization tools like “Super Steady” mode—but a lot of people forget to turn it on. Without it, your walking shots might look like a rollercoaster ride.
Fix it: Tap the hand icon on the camera screen to enable “Super Steady.” For even smoother shots, consider using a tripod or gimbal.
4. Leaving HDR Off (or On When It Shouldn’t Be)
HDR (High Dynamic Range) helps balance bright and dark areas in your video. But turning it on all the time, or forgetting to use it, can lead to weird-looking footage.
Fix it: Use HDR when you’re filming outdoors or in high-contrast lighting. Turn it off in low light to avoid flickering.
5. Shooting Without Checking the Focus or Exposure
Samsung cameras are good at auto-focusing, but sometimes they can mess up—especially in complex scenes. This causes the video to go blurry or the brightness to shift mid-recording.
Fix it: Tap on your subject to set focus and exposure. For better control, use Pro Video Mode to manually adjust ISO, shutter speed, and focus.
6. Recording with Dirty Lenses
It sounds silly, but a smudged lens can ruin your video. You end up with blurry, foggy, or light-smeared footage that even editing can’t fix.
Fix it: Always give your lens a quick wipe before recording. Use a microfiber cloth (or your shirt, if you’re careful).
7. Not Using a Mic for Clear Audio
Samsung’s internal mic is decent, but it catches a lot of wind, background noise, or echo. This can be distracting if you’re recording people talking.
Fix it: Plug in an external mic or use wireless earbuds with a mic for better audio quality. You can also use a second phone or device to record audio and sync it later.
8. Using Too Many Filters or Beauty Modes
Samsung’s camera app has tons of filters and beauty options, but using them too much can make your video look over-edited and unnatural.
Fix it: Keep it simple. You can always add effects in post-editing. For storytelling or vlogs, clean and natural is usually better.
9. Ignoring Lighting
No matter how good the camera is, bad lighting = bad video. Shooting in low light without night mode, or in harsh sunlight without adjusting exposure, can ruin your footage.
Fix it: Use natural light when you can. Film near windows during the day, or use soft lighting for indoor scenes. Avoid filming directly under harsh lights unless you’re going for drama.
10. Letting Apps Interfere with Recording
Sometimes, other apps (like voice assistants or music apps that use the microphone) can interfere with video recording, causing errors or failed recordings. If you run into problems, check which apps are using your mic or camera and close them before filming.
Quick Tips for Better Samsung Videos
- Use both hands or a tripod for steady shots.
- Invest in a simple external mic for clearer audio.
- Frame your shot at eye level and avoid too much headroom.
- Shoot horizontally unless you’re making content for vertical platforms.
- Avoid digital zoom—move closer instead.
- Lock focus and exposure before recording.
- Choose the right resolution for your needs.
- Close background apps that might use the camera or microphone.
Ready to Hit the Record Button
Your Samsung phone is a beast when it comes to video. But just like any tool, you get the best results when you know how to use it smartly. A few small tweaks—like steady shots, proper focus, and clean lenses—can take your videos from “meh” to “whoa!”
So next time you pull out your Galaxy to film your life, your food, or your next creative project—keep these tips in mind. (*)
