Nowadays, journalists are more than just writers. Having instant access to video apps is essential, as it’s not always possible to shoot on professional cameras, and it’s vital to be able to share breaking news instantly from remote locations. XCity Plus has put together a handy guide to the top five video apps to get you started…

 

  1. Splice

 

https://splice.com/

The Splice app is a simplified version of iMovie, including everything from the traditional “Ken Burns” panning and zooming effect used for news production to a range of editing tools. You can create videos from pictures, add captions/transitions and select background music or a voice-over. You can share the finished video directly to your social media channel or website.

Devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch               

Cost: Free

 

  1. FiLMiC Pro

http://www.filmicpro.com/

It might be a little pricey, but FiLMiC Pro is one of the most valuable video apps you can download. It’s highly regarded among filmmakers, as it allows you to create great quality videos and have manual control over the shooting process. Don’t be fooled by the deceptively simple and elegant layout, as FiLMiC Pro actually has most of the features you’ll need when working remotely: focus, exposure, frames and white balance. The most useful feature is the ability to control the audio while wearing headphones.

Devices: iPhone, iPad/Android

Cost: £9.99 for iPhone and iPad/£9.49 for Android

 

  1. Voddio

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/voddio-video-audio-editor/id472769922?mt=8

Voddio looks a bit old-fashioned, but it’s very easy to use. As well as its video features, this multi-purpose app has a dictaphone too. You can use Voddio for free to record and edit videos, but if you want to send files over email or share directly to your social media channels, you’ll have to pay to upgrade the app. You can also log in to the Voddio VeriSend service to send files directly to media company servers. Although the app lacks comprehensive editing features, it’s perfect for some quick trimming and rotating.

Devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch

Cost: Free/£9.99 upgrade

 

  1. Ustream

http://www.ustream.tv/

If you ever find yourself in the middle of a protest or an unplanned event that you need to share right then and there, Ustream is for you. It’s a live streaming platform that allows journalists to reach audiences of any size and watch other broadcasts happening live around the globe.

Devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch/Android

Cost: Free to watch broadcasts without registration/advanced broadcasting features available for media companies

 

  1. Videolicious

https://videolicious.com/

Is there a more simple video app to use than Videolicious? We think not. Videolicious is perfect for those who want to start a career in vlogging. Extremely easy to get to grips with, it allows you to record videos and add photos, captions and background music in seconds. When you create an account, you get a variety of editing options, such as filters, cropping, resizing and overlaying text. You can also pay for a business account to help grow your audience, generate ROI and increase streaming.  

Devices: iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch/Android

Cost: Free

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