Creating professional-looking video content for your dental practice doesn’t require expensive equipment. Your iPhone is already a powerful filming tool, and by adjusting a few key settings, you can dramatically improve the quality of your footage. Whether you’re capturing content for social media, your website, or marketing campaigns, these settings will help you get the most out of your device.
Let’s walk through the essential camera settings you should optimise. Open your Settings app, scroll to Camera, and follow along.

1. Switch to 4K resolution

First things first: if you’re still shooting in standard HD, it’s time to upgrade to 4K. This higher resolution will immediately elevate the quality of your videos, giving you sharper, more detailed footage that looks professional across all platforms.

Navigate to the Record Video menu to explore your 4K options. Bear in mind that higher resolution means larger file sizes, so ensure you have adequate storage. This feature is available on iPhone 6s and newer models.

2. Set your frame rate to 24 fps

Your iPhone offers multiple frame rate options, each suited to different scenarios. While 60 frames per second is excellent for capturing smooth action or creating slow-motion effects in post-production, we recommend setting your default to 24 fps.

Why? Because 24 fps delivers that cinematic quality you see in films and professional video content. It’s the gold standard for creating polished, engaging videos. Just note that each minute of 4K footage at 24 fps uses approximately 350 MB of storage, so plan accordingly for longer shoots.

3. Consider your HDR settings carefully

In the Record Video menu, you’ll find the HDR Video option. High Dynamic Range can capture a broader spectrum of highlights and shadows, which works brilliantly for colourful scenes or high-contrast environments.

However, there are valid reasons to disable HDR:

• It can complicate the editing process if your software doesn’t fully support HDR footage
• Mixing HDR and standard clips in the same project can create inconsistent colours and brightness levels
• Skin tones can sometimes appear unnatural, particularly in indoor lighting conditions

Newer iPhone models typically have this enabled by default, so make a conscious decision based on your shooting environment and post-production workflow.

4. Enable the grid

Back in the main camera settings, switch on the Grid feature. This overlays faint lines on your screen following the rule of thirds, dividing your frame into nine equal sections.
This simple tool is invaluable for composing balanced shots, keeping horizons level, and positioning subjects more effectively. Try aligning a person’s eyes along the top third line for more engaging framing.

5. Disable the preview outside your frame

By default, your iPhone displays the area beyond your actual recording frame. While this might seem helpful, it’s often more distracting than useful when you’re trying to compose your shot precisely.

Scroll down in the camera settings and turn off View Outside Frame. You’ll have a cleaner view of exactly what you’re capturing, making it easier to frame your shots intentionally.

6. Activate Macro Control (Pro Models)

If you’re using an iPhone Pro model, you have access to macro mode for extreme close-up filming. The macro control feature gives you manual toggle between regular and macro modes, rather than letting the phone switch automatically.
This level of control is particularly useful when you want consistency in your shots or when automatic switching might interrupt your filming.

7. Choose your video format wisely

In the Formats menu, you’ll find two options:

• High Efficiency (HEVC) compresses videos more efficiently, reducing file sizes while maintaining quality. This is ideal when you’re filming extensively and need to manage storage, or when uploading directly to platforms like YouTube, Instagram, or your website.
• Most Compatible uses the H.264 format, which works seamlessly across older platforms and editing software. If you’re editing footage yourself or working with legacy systems, this is your safest choice.

For most marketing and business applications where you’re uploading content to modern platforms, High Efficiency offers the best balance of quality and practicality.

8. Prioritise high-quality audio

Great visuals can capture attention, but clear, crisp audio keeps viewers engaged. Poor sound, echo, background noise, or muffled speech can make even the most polished footage feel unprofessional.

For the best results, avoid relying on your iPhone’s built-in microphone, especially if you’re recording in a busy clinic or open space. Instead, use a remote wireless microphone from a reputable brand such as Rode. These compact, easy-to-use systems connect directly to your iPhone and capture your subject’s voice clearly, even from a distance.

When recording, keep these tips in mind:

• Position the microphone close to the speaker’s chest, ideally clipped onto clothing.
• Monitor your audio levels to ensure you’re not peaking or distorting.
• Record a short test clip before your full take to check for interference or background noise.

Investing in reliable audio gear will instantly elevate your content, making testimonials, interviews, and educational videos sound as professional as they look.

Ready to create better video content?

Optimising these settings takes just a few minutes but makes a lasting difference to your video quality. Whether you’re filming testimonials, behind-the-scenes content, or promotional videos, your iPhone can deliver professional results that enhance your brand.

At Hive Marketing, we help private dental practices harness the power of video content to connect with their audiences. If you’d like support developing your video marketing strategy or creating compelling content, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.