Film-file types

Different hardware and software has been produced by manufactures of computers and mobile devices for creating and showing films.

Films require specific players before a film can be viewed. The most common players are QuickTime™ and Windows Media™ Player.

Possible film-file extension types are:

• . wmv
• . mov
• . avi
• . mp4
• . 3gp

Research is needed to ascertain the correct player required to view a film on a specific mobile device. This information would then become available from manufacturers.

Filmmaking tips

Mobile filmmaking incorporates similar techniques used by original filmmakers in the days of silent movies. This is due primarily to the small screen size; the current small-pixel size of cameras; screen resolution and the recording limitations of the microphone.

Mobile cameras have a film rate of 15 frames-per-second, which is significantly slower than camcorders at 25 frames-per-second. As a result, films produced on a mobile device can appear pixilated and movement can look jerky.

Specific techniques for mobiles include:

• Use close-up shots with ‘cut away’ to medium range. Detail drops out in long-range shots.
• Use close-up shots of the main action and characters and keep these in the centre of the screen to emphasise the action.
• Use minimal panning and zooming, as mobiles do not use as many frames per second as video cameras.
• Overstate content, eg emphasise expressions on faces.
• Use a minimal number of colours and select those that are bold and bright.
• Use strong lighting or bright sunlight. Night light is greenish and pixilated.
• Use slow movements and an arm rest.