If you're not using your mobile phone's video capture capabilities, you're missing out on a whole new way of communicating. Sending text messages and snapshots is great, but video messages, mobcasts (mobile podcasting), or just capturing baby's first steps on a device that is always with you, is way more fun. MMS or Multimedia Messaging Service makes it possible for anyone to send messages embedded with sound, animations, photographs, and video clips to another cell phone. While text messages are limited in size, Multimedia Messages are not, although they do require that your phone be connected to a faster network in order to deliver these larger files.

Sending Video via MMS or Email

After capturing a short video clip using your mobile, you have an option of sending it to more than one recipient. In the To field, you can choose to enter an email address or a 10-digit phone number from your address book. Keep in mind that many handsets are not capable of receiving Multimedia Messages, so sending a short video clip through email may be your best bet.

You'll be given the option of either storing or discarding your new video clip. If you choose to store it, you'll be prompted to store it in your cell phone's memory for later use, and download it to your PC using a USB cable or Bluetooth. These clips can also be emailed at a later time.

If you choose to send your clip to another mobile phone, you'll be prompted to send it via MMS. Sending your video clip using an email address will send the video straight to the recipient's inbox. Instructions vary from phone to phone, so read your manual to find out how your phone handles this process.

Best Practices for Shooting Video

Shooting video with your cell phone can be a little tricky, so here are some tips to help create video messages:

1.The best mobile phone footage is shot outdoors or in well-lit spaces that use bright lighting or natural light. You can adjust the settings on most phones, but sunlight is your best friend. Newer handsets like Helio's Kickflip allow you to enhance your video with special effects such as sketch, posterize, sepia, or black and white. Don't be afraid to experiment with your phone's settings. Go ahead, go outside and shoot video messages for friends and family.

2. While quality isn't the best on camera phones, there are a few things you could do to avoid pixelated videos. If at all possible, avoid zooming in on the subject or walking while you're recording your short segment. Lean against a wall or tree to avoid too much movement and exercise breathing control. If you're planning to record long videos with your cell phone, use a cell phone tripod.

3. Know your camera phone's time limitations. Some camera phones (like those with Memory Sticks) can record longer video clips until it runs out of space, while others restrict video length to a few seconds. Because you can't adjust these settings, you can practice delivering your message in a short, snappy way. If you're not satisfied with the results, simply delete and start again.

4. Use the highest video-capture resolution. Video screen size varies between phones, as some capture video at 176 x 144 pixels, while video captured on smart phones may be QVGA or 320 x 240 pixels in size. Mobile phones with 2 to 3 megapixels may be able to capture better video too. For more on resolutions and file formats, check out O'Reilly Digital Media.

Get Creative

It's amazing what folks are doing with video these days. As video messaging increases in popularity, more and more media outlets are asking readers to submit video comments via mobile phones. Filmmakers are also jumping on this trend, and many have created full-length movies and music videos using mobile phones like Sony Ericsson handsets and Nokia's N90.

So how are you using your camera phone's video features? Please feel free to add any additional tips or ask me questions you may have in the comments below.