Nail content creator Zoya Mac argues that professionals do not require the newest smartphone to produce high-quality social media content. She highlights that her iPhone 11, used for two years, achieved good results with the addition of lighting and editing tools. Even her current iPhone 15, not a Pro model, has been sufficient for brand videos and paid campaigns over the past two years. Mac suggests focusing on camera settings and setup rather than the model itself.
Key factors for effective nail content creation include macro focus, which some phones achieve naturally or can be enhanced with a £30-£60 clip-on lens. Colour accuracy is also vital; Mac found her iPhone 15 provided more true-to-life shades than some Android models. Lighting remains paramount, with recommendations for overhead lights like the Katie Barnes LED Flexible Desk Light for client work and simple IKEA lamps for content creation.
Understanding camera settings can significantly improve output. For photos, switching to 16:9 format eliminates cropping, and using AE/AF lock ensures focus. For videos, 30fps is standard, while 60fps offers smoother motion for slow-motion edits or a polished look. Both 1080p (Full HD) and 4K resolutions are viable, depending on the intended use, with 4K being ideal for detailed demonstrations or brand work.
Before upgrading, Mac prompts businesses to assess if lighting, setup, or editing are the actual limitations, not just the phone. She also shares a practical solution for storage issues: uploading edited content to Dropbox's free 'Basic Plan' (2GB) to free up phone space. This approach suggests that accessible tools and smart strategies, not necessarily cutting-edge hardware, drive successful content creation in the beauty industry.
