In this episode of The Tap, Wes and Julian unpack one of the most underrated topics in smartphone video: audio quality. They explain why sound makes or breaks your content, how your smartphone “hears” differently than your ears, and what simple tools and tips can make a big difference.

• Why microphones don’t have “selective hearing” like your ears do
• Quiet environment first: The easiest way to improve sound quality
• Microphone placement: Why distance from your mouth matters most
• Recommended mic: RØDE SmartLav and why it’s the best place to start
• Wired vs wireless: Pros, cons and simplicity tips
• TRS vs TRRS: Why some mics don’t “just work” with smartphones
• Bluetooth mics explained: Why we usually avoid them
• Understanding your own voice: Why you sound different on recordings and why that’s normal!

In this episode, we cover:

• 00:00 Introduction and why audio delays often cause filming problems
• 02:00 Why clear sound matters more than perfect video
• 05:00 Your smartphone mic vs your ears: key differences
• 08:00 Why proximity is everything for good sound
• 10:00 How the RØDE SmartLav solves most beginner problems
• 12:00 Common mistakes with adapters, headphone jacks and mic plugs
• 15:00 Wireless mic pros and cons: simplicity vs flexibility
• 17:00 When to use directional mics and lapel mics
• 19:00 TRS vs TRRS: why the right connector matters for smartphones
• 21:00 Why you hate the sound of your own voice—and why you shouldn’t
• 24:00 Final advice: keep it simple, quiet and close—and just start recording

Follow Tap Edit Go:
Instagram: @tapeditgo
Facebook: @tapeditgo
TikTok: @tapeditgo

Contact Wes directly: wes@tapeditgo.com

Visit tapeditgo.com for resources, courses, and community support.

This episode was originally part of the Smartphone Video Podcast with Julian Mather. Julian is now an accomplished motivational speaker — learn more at julianmather.com. He has passed the reins of this podcast to Tap Edit Go to continue the mission, bringing you fresh episodes and new guests.

In this episode of The Tap, Wes and Julian break down one of the most common beginner questions: How should I light my smartphone videos? They explain why you don’t need fancy equipment to look great—and how a simple desk lamp, a window, or clever positioning can make all the difference.

• Why three-point lighting isn’t required for great results
• Natural light tips: The easiest, most affordable lighting source
• Common mistakes: Downlights, backlight silhouettes, and mismatched lighting
• DIY hacks: Coffee cups, desk lamps, and everyday objects as light sources
• Why flat light is flattering: Simple ways to reduce shadows and look younger on camera
• Ring lights explained: Pros, cons, and why they’re often misused

In this episode, we cover:

• 00:00 Introduction and topic overview
• 02:00 The lighting myth: why you don’t need pro kits to look professional
• 04:00 Common beginner mistakes and why lighting is an art not a formula
• 07:00 Natural light strategy: how to face a window for soft, flattering light
• 10:00 Why downlights create “baggy eyes” and harsh shadows
• 12:00 Desk lamps as practical, available lighting sources
• 14:00 Ring lights: what they’re for and why they can look distracting
• 16:00 Smartphone camera limitations vs human eyes: why your phone needs more light than you think
• 18:00 Final advice: start simple, build skills through practice and experience

Follow Tap Edit Go:
Instagram: @tapeditgo
Facebook: @tapeditgo
TikTok: @tapeditgo

Contact Wes directly: wes@tapeditgo.com

Visit tapeditgo.com for resources, courses, and community support.

This episode was originally part of the Smartphone Video Podcast with Julian Mather. Julian is now an accomplished motivational speaker — learn more at julianmather.com. He has passed the reins of this podcast to Tap Edit Go to continue the mission, bringing you fresh episodes and new guests.

In this episode of The Tap, Wes and Julian tackle one of the biggest obstacles to smartphone video success: presenting on camera. They share their personal journeys, practical mindset shifts, and why authenticity—not perfection—is what builds trust and connection with your audience today.

• Mindset shift: Why confidence grows with practice—not talent
• Overcoming playback shock: Why we all dislike our first videos (and why it’s normal)
• Authenticity wins: Why modern audiences prefer natural communication over polished performance
• Low-risk practice ideas: 60-second intro videos, Instagram Stories, and email signature videos
• Energy tips: Amp up just a little for camera presence
• Smiling and connection: The easiest way to build rapport on video
• Imposter syndrome: Why your unique voice matters—even if you think “everyone already knows this”

In this episode, we cover:

• 00:00 Introduction and topic overview
• 01:30 Julian’s journey from hiding behind the camera to presenting on camera
• 04:00 Why playback feels confronting—and how to desensitize yourself
• 06:00 Why your imperfections make you relatable (and trustworthy!)
• 08:30 Low-risk practice suggestions: small daily videos and email signature videos
• 11:00 Wes’s Instagram Stories practice routine and how repetition builds ease
• 14:00 Energy, smiling, and building trust through warmth
• 17:00 The invisible “glass wall”: how to push energy slightly through the lens
• 19:00 Why most barriers are in your head—not in your ability
• 22:00 Imposter syndrome: understanding that *someone* needs to hear your voice
• 24:00 Final advice: practice, repetition, and embracing imperfection

Follow Tap Edit Go:
Instagram: @tapeditgo
Facebook: @tapeditgo
TikTok: @tapeditgo

Contact Wes directly: wes@tapeditgo.com

Visit tapeditgo.com for resources, courses, and community support.

This episode was originally part of the Smartphone Video Podcast with Julian Mather. Julian is now an accomplished motivational speaker — learn more at julianmather.com. He has passed the reins of this podcast to Tap Edit Go to continue the mission, bringing you fresh episodes and new guests.