The recent addition of ProRes Log capture on the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max has taken the device’s video shooting capabilities to a new level. Professional cinematographer Matteo Bertoli uploaded a camera test capturing footage in 4K ProRes Log and found that it resembled the quality of dedicated cameras rather than that of a smartphone. While the footage had some artifacts and struggled in certain high-contrast scenes, it looked much closer to actual camera footage. The ability to shoot professional-looking videos on an iPhone opens up new possibilities for creative professionals and makes high-end filmmaking more accessible in specific situations.
Although the footage captured with the iPhone 15 Pro models is impressive, there are some limitations with the shooting experience. Filmmakers have noted issues when using neutral density filters, as the small sensor can show too much noise under darker conditions. Additionally, the native camera app lacks certain features like locking white balance and tint, which are essential for precise control. Despite these drawbacks, the advancement in smartphone technology demonstrated by the iPhone’s video capabilities makes it difficult for other smartphone manufacturers to compete with Apple in the field of mobile video capture.
Overall, the footage captured with the iPhone 15 Pro and Pro Max in 4K ProRes Log showcases the significant progress in smartphone photography and videography. While it may not match the quality of mid- or low-tier cinema cameras, the iPhone comes close enough that many people may not even notice the difference. This technological advancement solidifies Apple’s position as the leading choice for mobile video capture and will likely continue to attract creative professionals.
