I bought a mini tripod that I can put my phone in so I can be handsfree and take video. It even comes with a remote. I didn't have high hopes for it being under 40 dollars but I tested it without the pups and it works well. Now I can play with pups, take photos and move the tripod around, if necessary but it will free me up to spend time doing what I love the best - playing with pups.
The pups are such fun and they are now heading into the week of having visitors so they will have baths, photos etc. It's a lot of work but the end result is great. On the 27th of December they get their 8 week checkup and she will be coming to the house. They are a month away from departing and it will happen too soon for me but not for you, I imagine.