Behind the Scenes: What My Stop Motion Setup Looks Like at Home

How I shoot scroll-stopping videos with simple tools

One of the biggest myths about stop motion is that you need a big studio or expensive equipment to create it. But the truth? You can get eye-catching, professional-quality results right on your phone.

In this behind-the-scenes look, I’m sharing what my setup looks like when I create stop motion for brands, both with my phone and with my DSLR camera. Whether you’re after a casual, handmade feel or something with a crisp, polished look, I’ve got you covered.

My Studio Essentials

Here’s what I use depending on the style and scope of the project:

  • Phone Setup
     For playful, on-the-fly animations or content that needs to feel warm and relatable, I use my phone with a tripod. It’s fast, flexible, and perfect for social.

  • DSLR Setup
     For a more polished look or when a brand wants ultra-clean detail, I use my DSLR and lighting setup. This gives me more control over depth, texture, and resolution. This is ideal for campaigns, websites, and product launches.

  • A flat surface + good lighting
     Whether I’m using my phone or camera, I shoot on a clean table near a window or use a softbox light for even lighting. Backgrounds range from simple white backdrops to textured vinyl, depending on the mood and client's brand.

How I Plan Each Shoot

Before I begin, I sketch a rough storyboard to map out movements and transitions. That way, every frame feels intentional.

Then I prep the product, props, and background, make sure everything is aligned and clean, and start building the scene frame by frame.

What the Process Looks Like

In each shoot the steps are fairly consistent, but it does depend on the types of movement and flow I want to capture:

  • Move the product a bit

  • Snap a photo

  • Repeat the process until you get the look you want

Watching a product come to life in this way never gets old.

Editing + Finishing Touches

Phone projects are usually edited directly in the Life Lapse app. DSLR projects get imported into Lightroom and stitched together in DaVinci Resolve for a smooth, high-end result.

Each project gets customized based on your needs. Whether you want a fun teaser for Instagram, a product demo for your website, or looping animations for ads, stop motion is a great way to go.

Here’s the Best Part

You don’t have to DIY this unless you want to.

I create stop motion for brands using both simple and professional setups, depending on your goals. Whether you’re looking for something playful and handmade or clean and campaign-ready, I’ll help you create visuals that move your audience.

Want to Try It (or Hand It Off)?

 [Download my free guide] to create your first stop motion video using just your phone, no overwhelm, just simple steps.

Or  [reach out to me directly] if you want me to bring your product to life with a custom stop motion video.

Let’s make your brand stand out one frame at a time!

I’m Terisha and I create custom stop motion videos and product photos  for brands  who want content that feels polished and on brand. I would love to chat about your needs. Email me here.