Mobile Journalism with Moondog Labs
Mobile journalism (a.k.a. mojo) is a rapidly growing field of digital storytelling. While mobile journalists may incorporate other portable devices like audio recorders, laptops, or DSLRs into their workflow, smartphones are at the heart of mobile journalism. Mobiles are increasingly used by journalists to capture audio for radio news and podcasts, and video for TV news, documentaries, and social media platforms.
If you are a mobile journalist, teach journalism, or are just looking for more information on the topic, you've come to the right place.
Moondog Labs is committed to supplying mobile journalists the tools they need to succeed in the field. Below is a sampling of additional resources for teachers and journalists that offer guidance on how to become better storytellers.
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One of the best resources for mobile journalists is the Mobile Journalism Manual, published by Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung. From beginner to veteran, this website contains information on every aspect of mojo: finding a story and location, shot types and angles, going live on social media, and so much more.
Gear recommendations are also a vital part of the Mobile Journalism Manual (and Moondog Labs is on their list).
Due to the highly dynamic nature of many mojo settings, many mobile journalists use external audio capture for their setup. Mounting a microphone to a rig like BeastGrip Pro is a great solution, and a BeastGrip Pro Lens Mounting Plate allows for attachment of external lenses to complement your rig.
Using filters with your smartphone ensures that you capture high quality video, especially in bright outdoor situations. Our selection of filter mounts, like the Multi-Camera Filter Mount or 52mm Filter Mount - 12.5mm Thread, allow mojos to get the look they desire by attaching the filters directly to a smartphone case.
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In addition to a number of online resources, Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung also produces the Mojo Asia Conference, inspiring journalists around the globe with tools to think outside the box.
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Documentary filmmaker Larry Engel has worked on projects for organizations like National Geographic and PBS. In the recent Mobile Creator Summit by FiLMiC Pro and LumaFusion, Larry dishes out great advice he's harvested over four decades of work in the film industry.
His work exemplifies his advice that "the best mojo device is always with you. Know how to use it." One such example is how to use camera movement to create visual interest when your subject is stationary. In his video, he goes on to demonstrate how he captures conventional camera movements on a smartphone using his body.
The next step in creating smooth cinematic motion is using a mobile gimbal like Zhiyun Smooth 4 or a DJI Osmo. Moondog Labs carries counterweights to help balance out your gimbal when using an external lens. With a gimbal, an external lens, and a counterweight, it becomes easier to capture imagery that turns the mundane into the extraordinary.
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Mojofest is the world's longest running smartphone content creator festival. This year's festival was cancelled due to COVID-19. Their website and social media channels are certainly worth keeping an eye on for rescheduling and future events.
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