As an artist, sharing my process online has always been just as important as the final piece. But let’s be honest: filming overhead angles is the ultimate boss fight for creators.
Over the years, I’ve tried everything to get that perfect shot of my canvas without tripod legs getting in the way or my phone taking a literal face-plant into wet paint.
Today, I’m taking a trip down memory lane to show you the tools that have helped me document my work—from the "make-do" DIYs to my current favourites.
FULL TRANSPARENCY
Please note I am a regular consumer and paid for all of these items (including the Horizum stand) with my own money. I am giving you my honest opinion of each.
Since the making of this blog I was given an affiliate link opportunity from Horizum. It basically means if you purchase through the Horizum links listed below I earn a small commission from purchases made at no extra cost to you.
You may also use coupon ALEX10 to receive 10% off your entire order at Horizum
1. The "Husband-Made" Special (The OG Setup)
Handmade with items from local hardware.
Before I had "official" gear, I had a vision—and a very handy husband. We built a custom rig using PVC pipes (purchased from my local hardware) and magnets. It was bulky, and it definitely didn’t look like it belonged in the studio, but it was a game-changer. It allowed me to frame my workspace exactly how I needed it when the market didn’t have affordable options for overhead filming. The only downside to this rig was the bulky side arms that sat on precious desk space and the fact I would have to film everything upside down and then edit it later. Mind you this was 10 years ago when sophisticated in phone edits weren’t a thing.
2. The Flexible "Gooseneck" Clip
I can’t remember where I purchased mine from but after a quick google search I discovered one here
As you can see in my studio photo, this one clamps directly onto the shelf above my desk ( I would have loved for it to clamp directly onto my desk but my desk was too thick for the clamp). It’s a 2-in-1 tool with a phone holder and a small ring light on flexible arms. It’s brilliant for small desk spaces because it doesn't take up any "floor" or "desk" real estate. However, while it's great for light work, the flexible arm can sometimes misbehave and not stay in the exact place you wish it would. It also has a slide clip mount so if your phone has a bulky case you will have a bit of a hard time docking it.
3. The All-in-One Folding Studio
Purchased off Amazon
Next came the White Telescopic Stand. This one is a dream for "aesthetic" desk setups. It folds down into a neat little box, but extends into a tall stand with a built-in light. It was my first step towards a more "pro" look, especially with the overhead "arm" capability designed specifically to look down at your hands. The only downside to this holder is the fact the phone is heavier than the base box (when the telescopic rod is in its highest position) and sometimes it would topple over in the effort of trying to get a true Birds Eye view. I would anchor it down with heavy books which was a little frustrating as it wasn’t the dream come true product I had hoped for. The built in light was a bonus but I found using natural light the best option. I also have to admit that in my time using this holder I rarely folded it down after use as it can be a bit stiff and time consuming.
4. The Traditional Tripod
Purchased from Ebay
I eventually picked up a "Professional" Camera Tripod (by that I mean I bought it off eBay) thinking a standard rig would be the answer. However, I made a bit of a mistake here—I didn’t purchase a full-height one. While it’s sturdy, the lack of height and the large footprint of the legs meant I was constantly fighting for space in my studio. Also the plastic clamps aren’t user friendly for bulkier phone cases and I found myself constantly fighting to grapple my phone into the docking cradle. At some point I actually broke it trying to get my phone to sit straight in it, so I would say this was my least favourite.
5. The Magnetic Minimalist Mini
Purchased from Nixive
After the bulky tripod, I wanted something with a magnetic holder as I had finally upgraded my phone cover. I found this Mini Magnetic Tripod that can actually clamp onto the edge of the table. It brought back that magnetic ease of my original PVC rig but in a tiny, pocket-sized version. It's great for close-ups, but not so great for a range of different angled shots. I also almost never use the clamp to the table as finding a table edge or furniture edge slim enough was challenging. This is probably my favourite so far as it is the one that I reach for on the daily, it’s small compact size makes it handy if you like to shoot content out and about. Despite this being the champion thus far I find I am being challenged to find surfaces for it to sit on to gain wide angled shots, hence my next purchase.
6. My Latest Find: The Tall Magnetic Hybrid
Use this link to purchase the Horizum stand*
* Horizum is constantly redesigning their phone gear, since this blog post was written they redesigned the tripod I purchased to a better more sophisticated tripod called: Tap To Snap Tripod.
This brings me to my most recent purchase, what I consider the all rounder. I finally found a rig that combines everything I’ve learned: magnetic mounting with a massive 145 cm height reach. It has the stability of a tripod base but the slim profile of a telescopic pole. It lets me get those high-up, bird's-eye views of my largest pieces without any of the struggle. It is also compact for on the go content, as it folds into a slim rod selfie stick (if that’s your jam). It has a larger footprint than number 4. so between these two phone holders I am in the sweet spot of angle selection.
Final thoughts
Looking back at this collection of gear, it’s clear that my setup has evolved right alongside my art. Each piece of equipment represents a different stage of my journey—from the early days of "make-do and mend" with PVC pipes, to the practical realisations that come with filming larger with more sophisticated angles.
Finding the right phone holder isn't just about the latest gadget; it's about removing the friction between your creativity and your camera. If you're constantly fighting with your tripod, you're not focusing on your brushstrokes. For me, the journey from bulky magnets to a sleek, 145 cm telescopic rig has been all about reclaiming that headspace.
Whether you are currently using a professional-grade rig or a clever DIY project held together with magnets and hope, remember that the most important tool in your studio isn't the tripod—it's your willingness to press record. Don't wait for the "perfect" setup to start sharing your story. Start with what you have, learn what you need, and let your equipment grow with your craft.
The process of creating is often just as beautiful as the finished piece, and I’m so glad I have the right tools now to show you every messy, colourful second of it.
With love and gratitude
Alex
