I want to start recording video and audio of myself playing to help me spot areas I need to improve. Is there a specific app or setup will help me do this with as little friction as possible?
Most recently I used Quicktime on my Mac and it worked, but it was a little fiddly to have to manually export/save the file at the end. I want something that makes it really simple to start, stop, save, and find recordings later.
I have a Macbook, an iPhone, and an (old) iPad.
I also use Quicktime on MacOS. It covers your description of “little friction” in my experience.
What about QuickTime is not to your liking? Saving it is just hitting save. It will play back in quicktime just fine.
If you need to trim for something like youtube, then I dislike my method of using ShotCut and will see what folks here can tell you so maybe I can try something else.
I use Photobooth on my MacBook, it’s an Apple App that come with the OS. I have a Samson G Track Pro usb mic plugged in for better sound quality, but the MacBook mic is not that bad but will struggle on lower frequencies.
Just record the video and then use the atrium function to get rid of unwanted lead in and end of video bits, then under file export it to Desktop or directory. Most people post their videos to their YouTube and save the as unlisted and then share the link in a post here, if that’s what you want to do.
I just use my iphone to record video. Very quick and easy, I do it all the time. In fact most of the recording I post here are done that way. I’m not suggesting that are great quality, but they are more than sufficient for practice videos.
Yeah ditto here. Phone is quick, easy, and most are of sufficient quality for hi resolution captures.
It will allow you to get into the habit quickly, and often.
Many of my “aha, is that what Im doing wrong” moments have come from a quick phone capture, in an ad hoc session on the lounge with an unplugged Tele/LP.
Cheers, Shane
Which app do you use on your iPhone?
I think it’s most likely that I am over-complicating it. I thought I needed to export it in a certain format. With that said I am wondering if a phone-based app would be more convenient if only because I don’t have to worry about setting up my computer before I get down to recording something. My phone might be quicker.
If you are going to use your iPhone, just use Camera app and select Video and off you go. It will save it in your photo library. Then use the Youtube app on the iphone and sign in and create a video in your account, importing the video you recorded from your library, set it to Public or Unlisted as you wish, copy the link to it from Youtube and then post it on JG, if that is what you intend to do, or share the link with who you want to see it. Simples! 
Just the camera app on the phone - Keep It Simple!
IME, for quick and simple, it’s hard to beat a phone with the built-in camera app.
The cameras on phones are pretty darn good and better than what you’ll find on any computer’s webcam unless you spend a healthy chunk of money on a dedicated camera. PLUS, the phone has respectable microphones.
Do yourself a favor and get something to hold the phone for your recording and is adjustable enough so you can position it how you need.
For better quality videos (with better quality audio), I STILL use a phone. I just connect it to other things (mostly for improved audio). I have quite a few cameras, and none of them can get video nearly as good.
What I usually do:
That’s only a little hassle especially if it is just self-assessment.