Get creative with 3G

While others view third-generation or 3G technology as a novelty that may easily wear off, it is definitely here to stay.

3G services are now available in the country and 3G-capable handsets are in the market, with prices expected to go down and become more affordable in the coming months.

With new technology come new opportunities for users to find creative uses for the camera phone. Commonplace situations, for example, can be a perfect camera or video opportunity.

For those who want to be first to experience this new technology, Smart Communications Inc. is offering its 3G service both for prepaid and postpaid subscribers through Smart 3G, the country’s first mobile broadband service.

With Smart 3G, subscribers can enjoy services like video calling, live TV streaming, music video streaming, full music track downloads, movie trailers streaming, live traffic and hot spot cameras, and high-speed Internet access.

These complement Smart’s regular text and call service, allowing subscribers to experiment with new phone and service features.

First-time users of Smart 3G or those who want to try it out can go to Smart Wireless Centers.

In other parts of the world, this is also happening. In the United Kingdom, for example, a study, as reported by BBC News and TechDigest, showed the interesting ways Britons are using their 3G phones.

For reporters and those who are interested in broadcasting, a 3G phone is a superb gadget for sending "at the scene" reports or proofs of celebrity sightings. Others can capture scenes and provide provocative commentaries.

Aspiring filmmakers can also document the story of their lives. Some women are even using their phones to take a shot of the taxi driver to ensure their safety when traveling at night.

A study commissioned by mobile network 3 revealed that new social trends and behavioral patterns could emerge because of this new technology.

Indeed, Smart 3G services can be used in various situations. You can take your brother who’s based in Germany on a virtual tour of your new house. Smart 3G allows subscribers to make international video calls (at $0.40 per minute) to 26 telcos in 16 countries, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Japan, Australia and Italy.

If you’re shopping for a cool outfit alone, you can also get instant feedback from a friend for free. Smart 3G local video calls still have no charge for a limited time.

With Smart’s multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) rates now pegged at just P1 if sent to another Smart subscriber and P2 if sent to a non-Smart subscriber, the service has become affordable.

Of course, only a great photo or video is worth showing and sharing. Here are some tips to make sure your 3G phone does you (and your other subjects) justice:

• Lighting conditions. Like a cameraman or photographer, make sure that your lighting is adequate. Fluorescent lights are good enough for video calls and conferences but remember that they cast a blue tint. 3G handsets in the market have video and camera settings that allow you to choose the kind of lighting condition. Avoid shooting against the light to keep the subject clear. Making a video call under the sun also means dealing with harsh lighting. It can wash out your face, plus you will end up squinting half the time. 

• Shot composition. When recording a scene or showing your surroundings during a video call, take note of the different elements on the screen. Focus on the subject but consider the objects in the background and how they come together. Frame the shot in a way that would please the eye, putting your subjects slightly off-center. When making a video call, hold the phone a few inches from your face, with your best angle in mind. Using it like a walkie-talkie is a no-no, unless you want to give the person you are talking to a perfect view of your nostrils.

• Use of colors. Whenever possible, try to balance the colors on the screen. Warm colors like red are dynamic while pastels are often soft on the eyes. How we see colors with the naked eye can be different from how the camera perceives them because of lighting conditions. See how the colors appear on the screen. When making a video call, avoid standing in front of a background that has the same shade as your clothes. This may give the illusion of a floating (talking) head.

• Good audio. The video would not be perfect if your voice is not clear and audible. Even the best technology can do little to produce the best audio if you don’t pronounce your words well. Investing in a hands-free device is also a good idea as the microphone can make your voice stand out from the background noise. Remember that the quality of audio received is also dependent on your handset, so check out its capabilities.

• Looking decent. Last but not the least, it is wise to look your best when making a video call. Best here does not require supermodel looks. Talking to your friend with combed hair and a neat appearance is enough. Avoid shouting on a voice call. Being personable during a video call is a sign of courtesy and good etiquette.

Mobile communications take on a higher level with Smart 3G. But as with anything in life, the best way to discover how it can make things more exciting is to experience it.