On category that has been exploding these past few years is mobile content creation.
Between major upgrade in phones, the move to USB-C in all phones (yes, I know Android has already been there) and the ability to record ProRes/4K direct to external small SSD’s, the democratization of creating higher end videos is here to stay.
On board storage is not the issue it once was.

One company has been putting out gear that is magsafe, works in a system, and is easy to carry, and that is the ShiftCam series.
Between a phone charging hand grip, a mag safe light, and a magsafe cold shoe, this is always in my bag.

Yes, packs small, plays big. Here is the official vid.

They have also introduced a new light that surround the entire phone which makes for a great way to shoot products for your online content.Looks like a perfect solution to shooting overhead as well to capture actions or items on a tabletop.

Plus, they have a ProMic short shotgun mic, which has on of my favorite features: an output jack for headphones to monitor your recording so you know you are getting the sound you need.
Sure, you can use the mic on your mirrorless or other cams. ShiftCam has taken the path of making gear for the mobile market, and they are creating solid, well made, well designed products. Yes, they have a full compliment of smartphone lenses that work with their cases, and have bundles on sale for Black Friday

To record directly to an SSD, you do need a current phone using USB-C, so that is an iPhone 15 and above.
Lexar Kickstarted a system this year, which is now at market , to connect to your phone, using an SSD drive, and has an extra port for a mic.

About $240 for the system with 1TB and USB-C hub.

In a simpler system, Anker has a magsafe external unit that takes an SD card, and if you make sure it has the speed to record your hi-res files, It’ll only run you about $23!  I do see what their next gen would need, but this is a great starter.

Wish the outward facing part was also magsafe so you could add one of the shift cam lights. So now you can record direct to an external drive from your phone.Sure, an SSD system like the Lexar is more robust, but this is a great value. And you probably have some SD cards around!

If you just want to import or export files, a great piece for your bag is the Apple SD card reader. I have been on the red carpet, take the needed shots, import from the SD card, and be posted in minutes.Go with the Apple product and don’t take chances.I’m showing this one with a lightening plug, and it’s also available with USB-C.

If action cam files are what you need to import, Scosche makes a very cool micro SD card reader to get the video imported, edit, and posted!

Also works directly onto a laptop, if needed.

Then the audio.

Along with the ProMic shotgun from ShiftCam, Rode Wireless Go is the standard as an interview system,

and they have just come out with new smaller set that allows you to hide the RODE trademark that has loomed large on the wireless go system. Lighter, more battery life, and a super compact footprint.

I also use the Ankerwork system as the receiver plugs into the phone without removing the case. As you can see  there are color options for the mics. I especially like the ability to plus the receiver into the phone without removing the case. It comes with Lightening and USB-Connector fro your phone, and of course you can use on your mirrorless cams as well.

The mics can be attached via magnet clip or pressure clip.

We will get into a full on audio gift guide shortly becuase the options are endless, and the post will have tested mics.!

OK, if you are adding, mics, lights, and an SSD, the right move is Beast Grip.

With plenty of cold shoes, a great grip, and sweet attachment system for the phone, it’s the best way to go full rig. They also have an option for additional lenses w/mounts.
Honestly, have it all built, keep it in your bag, and just add your phone when you are ready to shoot. And you can also add a magsafe battery pack to the phone to make sure you don’t lose power in the middle of a project.

OK, I think, I’ve said mag safe enough now.

And here are deeper dive links to mobile content posts from recent months.

Get ready for the Black Friday/Cyber Monday deals, as every brand spoken about here has one going on!