Lecture Notes: iPhone 13 Pro Cinematic Mode

Introduction

• Initial impression of cinematic mode on iPhone 13 Pro: cool technology but looks fake.
• Apple defaults to a shallow depth of field, contributing to the "fake" look.

Understanding Depth of Field

• Shallow Depth of Field:
  • Refers to the level of background or foreground blur.
  • Can look fake if set too shallow, with visible artifacts and glitches.
• Recommended settings: F5.6 to F7.1 for realistic appearance.

Cinematic Mode Features

• Resolution and Frame Rate:
  • 1080p at 30 frames per second.
  • Movies typically shot at 24 frames per second.
  • 30 fps can be slowed to 80% for a dreamy, slow-motion effect.
• Adjusting Effects:
  • Post-filming adjustment possible by editing the f-stop.
  • Allows for changing the cinematic effect like aperture on real lenses.

Focus Points and Keyframes

• Editing Focus:
  • Keyframes and focus points can be manually set.
  • Prevents automatic AI tracking from changing focus unintentionally.
• Practical Example:
  • Demonstrated tracking and maintaining focus on a subject moving through a frame.
  • Ability to lock focus to avoid shifting back to background objects.

Object and Face Tracking

• AI Tracking:
  • Automatically selects closest face or object in frame.
  • Rack focus capability demonstrated in Apple's demo clips.

Video Stabilization

• Stabilization Quality:
  • Only 1080p due to stabilization and file size considerations.
  • Described as the best digital stabilization, with a steadicam-like appearance.

Device and Lens Usage

• iPhone Models:
  • Footage shot on iPhone 13 mini and Pro.
  • Telephoto lens use on Pro not recommended; main camera preferred.

Practical Tips

• Lighting and Motion:
  • Good lighting and minimal motion improve results.
  • Adjust effect based on distance and subject.
• Creative Shots:
  • Locking focus on foreground objects creates a more realistic look.
• Post-Production:
  • Ability to edit focus points after filming.
  • Grading footage and adding film grain enhances appearance.

Final Thoughts

• Not personally reliant on cinematic mode due to real camera availability.
• Effective when used correctly, especially for mobile viewership.
• Future updates to Final Cut and iMovie will enhance usability.
• Encouragement to experiment with cinematic mode on the iPhone.

Conclusion

• Expressed curiosity about audience preferences between 24p and 30p.
• Encouraged viewers to engage with the content through feedback and interaction.