Are you ready to dive into the world of podcasting? With the rise of video podcasts, expressing your ideas and connecting with your audience visually has never been easier. In this post, we'll walk you through the process of recording your first video podcast using just your iPhone, all without breaking the bank. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster looking to explore a new format or a complete newbie eager to share your story, Detail got you covered.

The importance of audio quality

First things first, let's talk about audio quality. A good podcast experience hinges on clear and pleasant audio. However, this doesn't mean you have to invest in expensive microphones and audio equipment right off the bat. While high-end gear has its merits, the essence of your podcast lies in the story you have to tell.

Starting simple: your iPhone's built-in microphone

When starting out, simplicity is key. Sit down, prepare your topics or questions, and record your thoughts using your iPhone's built-in microphone. With Detail's free app, you can even simultaneously record both yourself and your guest using the front and back camera of your iPhone. It might not rival a professional studio, but it's an excellent way to dip your toes into podcasting and produce short form content to grow your podcast, without spending a dime.

Stepping up: upgrading our audio setup

As you become more comfortable with podcasting, you might want to explore better audio options. Fortunately, there's a plethora of choices available to suit any budget. Let's take a look at three different audio options for recording your video podcast with your iPhone.

Option 1: wireless microphones for enhanced audio

For a budget of around $30 to $60, you can enhance your audio quality significantly by using wireless microphones. A popular choice is the Boya BY-V2, a $60 set featuring two wireless microphones with noise cancellation. This portable solution plugs into your iPhone's lightning port, offering you great mobility and sound quality.

Option 2: USB microphones for professional sound

Investing around $39 in an Apple lightning to USB camera adapter allows you to connect various USB microphones to your iPhone. Options like the Blue Yeti or Blue Snowball, ranging from $50 to $100, provide excellent audio quality. If you're recording with a single microphone for two guests, consider one with an omnidirectional pattern, like the Blue Yeti, which captures audio from both the front and back.

Option 3: wireless sets for flexibility

For those who prioritize flexibility and quality, the Rode Wireless Go II and the DJI Wireless Mic are great options. These sets, costing around $300, come with a receiver that connects to your iPhone. Keep in mind that you'll need the proprietary Rode USB lightning cable SC21 or SC19 ($20) to link the wireless system to your iPhone. These sets also offer compatibility with Mac and come with an app to fine-tune your audio settings.

Recording your podcast: getting started

Don't let equipment barriers hinder your podcasting journey. You can record your podcast with both audio and video using just your iPhone. Follow these simple steps:

1. Install the Detail for iOS from the App Store.

2. Select the split-view layout.

3. Position your iPhone in the center of the table.

4. Hit record and start sharing your thoughts.
   
   

Editing and sharing your podcast

After recording, you're not far from a polished podcast episode. With Detail, you can edit your podcast, experiment with different styles and layouts, and even add automatic captions. If you're not satisfied with the full episode, don't worry. Extract your favorite moments as short clips for your social media channels.

Need help getting started?

If you're feeling a bit overwhelmed or have questions about starting your podcasting journey, don't hesitate to reach out to us in Discord or through support@detail.co. We're here to support you every step of the way.