How to Record a Football Match on Your Phone

Before you press record

Check that the venue allows recording, get the necessary consent and choose a position where the phone is away from players, spectators and emergency routes. Pitchside is focused on suitable 5-, 6- and 7-a-side footage during private beta.

One-phone setup

One phone is most useful on smaller pitches when a wide, stable landscape view can capture the important playing area. A central elevated position usually gives the most balanced view, but a raised corner can work for compact cages.

Two-phone setup

Two phones can cover opposing halves or different angles. Record the same kickoff or a visible clap before the game so the recordings have a clear synchronisation moment.

Phone settings

Use landscape orientation and test your own device before relying on it for a full match. Higher resolution and frame rate can improve detail, but they also use more storage and battery. Do not assume one setting is right for every phone.

iPhone and Android checks

• Free storage before arriving at the pitch.
• Charge the battery and bring a power bank for longer matches.
• Clean the lens.
• Use a focus or Do Not Disturb mode so calls and notifications do not interrupt recording.
• Record a short test clip and watch it before kickoff.

Choose a phone mount for your pitch

The right mount depends less on your phone and more on what surrounds the pitch. Before buying anything, check whether the venue has rigid fencing, netting posts or completely open grass. The phone must be held securely, positioned away from players and spectators, and mounted without damaging venue property.

Affiliate disclosure: Some links below are paid links. If you buy through them, Pitchside may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Our recommendations are based on suitability for different pitch setups, not commission rates. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Read the full affiliate disclosure.

Cheapest option for rigid fencing

Best for: caged 5-a-side pitches with secure fencing or railings

This is the inexpensive style of mount Dave has used himself. Its flexible legs can attach to suitable rigid fencing or a secure railing, making it a practical starting point for many small-sided venues. It is less suitable for open grass pitches, loose netting or places where the phone could be struck by the ball.

View the budget fence mount on Amazon - paid link

Fence mount with additional cover

Best for: fenced pitches where glare or changeable weather is a concern

This option attaches to suitable fencing and provides more cover around the phone. The hood may help reduce direct sunlight and offer limited protection in light rain, but it should not be treated as a guarantee that the phone is waterproof. Stop recording if weather conditions could damage the phone or make the setup unsafe.

View the covered fence mount on Amazon - paid link

Mount for a suitable netting post

Best for: pitches with netting and suitable supporting posts

Some grassroots pitches have loose perimeter netting rather than rigid fencing. Where venue rules allow it, a mount designed for a solid supporting post can provide a more stable position than attaching directly to the netting. Check that the post is secure and that the mount cannot fall onto the playing area.

View the post mount on Amazon - paid link

Tripod for open grass

Best for: Sunday league and open grass pitches with nothing secure to attach to

A freestanding tripod is usually the most practical option when the pitch has no suitable fencing, railing or post. Position it outside the playing area and pedestrian routes. Use appropriate ballast when conditions allow, never leave it unstable in strong wind, and make sure the setup complies with the venue's rules.

Check these things before kickoff

• Confirm that the venue allows recording and mounting equipment.
• Obtain the necessary recording consent.
• Keep the mount outside the playing area and emergency routes.
• Film in landscape orientation.
• Check that both goals and the important playing area are visible.
• Make sure the phone cannot fall onto players or spectators.
• Check storage and battery before the match.
• Record a short test clip and watch it before kickoff.
• Do not leave the equipment unattended.

For one-phone and two-phone positioning, common blind spots and setup diagrams, read our complete football recording setup guide. Check Product Status for current app and mount availability.