Is My Smartphone A "Real Camera?"

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While teaching video production classes, it always surprises me when a student asks, “Can I use the real camera?” instead of their iPhone. While their is a romanticism to the classic camera, the truth is they barely beat out a smartphone when it comes to image quality. iPhones (no matter what generation) are amazing tools for creation and once you unlock your own potential, the possibilities are endless. 

If you’re still doubting your iPhone’s camera capabilities then look no further than Hollywood. Over a dozen films have been filmed entirely on iPhones (albeit with the help of fancy lenses and rigs). Academy Award winners like Michel Gondry and Steven Soderbergh have both directed films on smartphones (iPhone 7 no less) and I only expect this trend to continue. While cinema cameras are king and nothing beats the look of real film, iPhones are getting better and better and it’s only a matter of time before they become commonplace on major productions.

The truth is that making a great video is only partially affected by the camera itself. Lighting, sound quality, and stable camera moves (side note: The iPhone 12 has amazing in-camera stabilization) all tell your story no matter what camera you’re using. Once you master these techniques, your videos will shine no matter what.

That’s why I’ve designed a smartphone starter kit for my students to use and help raise their smartphone game. While these tools won’t turn you into the next Stephen Spielberg or Patty Jenkins overnight, they will help you realize that you have had a “real camera” in your pocket all along.

Smartphone Creator Kit:

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