It was May 4th, and we are big enough “Star Wars” fans to spend a chunk of the weekend watching a movie or two from the Disney+ menu. So we were reminded, of course, about “the power of the dark side,” which, of course, is much of what the entire Star Wars ethos is built upon: the fight between good and evil. At the same time, we were reminded of the art of cinematography as it is captured in the movies.

If you are into movies as much as we are, and have sat through the credits of a film in a movie theater more times than you’d care to admit, you’ve likely seen credits for those who work in so-called “B Camera Units.” As the name implies, these are the people who staff a second camera position in making a film, usually employed in situations where multiple cameras are deployed to capture a large scene.

This brings us to today’s idea, which you should consider whenever you find yourself in the field covering a story. Be your own “B Camera unit” by deploying a second camera in your storytelling, even if that camera is the one you already carry on your smartphone.

Not long ago, the standard of “broadcast quality” required cameras that weighed as much as a boat anchor and were as costly as a nice boat for the lake. Technology marched on, and today, most people with a relatively modern smartphone have a video camera capable of making fantastic pictures.

Some MMJs use their smartphones as secondary cameras, not to mention the growing number of them who may use a smartphone as their only video camera. Much like those amazing Apple commercials that state that they were “Shot on iPhone,” it is safe to say that when this is done, a few accessories are needed to help in the shooting process.

One recommendation: If you want more control and quality in your smartphone video, consider downloading the Blackmagic Camera App. It adds many professional video-shooting features to either an iPhone or an Android flagship model smartphone. And the app is the right price, as it is free to download and use.

Our point here is that deploying a “B Cam” can enrich the storytelling process in any situation. From collecting additional b-roll footage from a different angle (seeing the crowded room in a press conference, as well as the standard podium shot) to grabbing some “quick turn” video for your promotions folks or social media posts, having additional video in the storytelling process is never a bad thing. (Anyone who has spent time in an edit bay knows this to be the gospel.)

Did we mention that the selfie camera on your smartphone is also a great way to see what you will look like on camera before a stand-up or even a live shot? And it’s way more accurate than just using a mirror to represent what your main video camera will see.

So, remember that your smartphone is a valuable tool for much more than just calls and texts.

And may the force be with you.