"Mobile journalism has become an essential skill not just for journalists, but anyone in communications," says Rob Layton, a 40-year journalism veteran speaking at the International Journalism Festival today (10 April) in Perugia.

Layton, who has spent the last decade researching, teaching and practicing mobile journalism, provided a comprehensive guide to producing high-quality content on your smartphones, no matter your level of experience.

Three key pieces of equipment will have you set as a mobile journalist: a grip or rig, a tripod and a microphone.

For beginners, Layton recommends starting with a basic grip featuring a "cold shoe mount" on top to attach a microphone. More advanced options include:

"A good tripod is for life," Layton advised, recommending models that extend to eye level for professional-looking interviews. His personal preference is the Peak Design........

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