How to Shoot Cinematic Video on iPhone Using Apple Log | Mobile Workflow
Shooting cinematic-quality video on your iPhone has never been easier, especially with the revolutionary Apple Log profile available on the iPhone 15 and 16 Pro/Pro Max models. Whether you’re a content creator, social filmmaker, professional shooter or video enthusiast, Apple Log unlocks a powerful new way to capture and edit footage with stunning dynamic range and color depth.
This article guides you step-by-step on how to shoot in Apple Log using just your iPhone, how to preview your footage with LUTs in real time using Blackmagic Camera app, and tips to get the most out of your mobile setup.
What Is Apple Log and Why Does It Matter?
Apple Log is a proprietary log gamma curve designed by Apple and introduced for the first time in the iPhone 15 Pro/Pro Max. It captures a wider dynamic range than standard video profiles, preserving highlights and shadows that are crucial for cinematic storytelling.
The footage recorded in Apple Log looks flat and desaturated on your phone screen, this is normal. This “flat” image holds all the raw detail that lets you add beautiful color grading later, whether on your phone or in desktop software.
One key advantage? Apple Log is integrated directly into the native Camera app on the Pro iPhone models, no need for third-party apps just to capture Log footage.
Step 1: How to Enable Apple Log on Your iPhone
To start shooting cinematic video with Apple Log, follow these simple steps:
- Open the native Camera app on your iPhone.
- Switch to Video mode.
- Find and enable the ProRes Log option.
- Start recording your video with the flat, high-dynamic-range profile activated.
Step 2: Shooting Tips for Cinematic Apple Log Videos on Mobile
Shooting in Apple Log is different from normal video modes. Here are some essential tips to maximize your cinematic look:
- Stabilize your shots with a gimbal or tripod for smooth motion.
- Shoot in 4K resolution at 24fps or 30fps to emulate film frame rates.
- Be mindful of your exposure: Apple Log preserves highlight detail but avoid overexposing bright areas, as blown-out highlights cannot be recovered.
- Use manual focus and exposure lock features available in the Camera app or third-party apps for consistent results.
- Keep lighting conditions optimal; while Log gives you flexibility, shooting in very low light will add noise.
Step 3: Use Blackmagic Camera App to Preview and Apply LUTs in Real-Time
One of the best ways to bring your Apple Log footage to life on the iPhone itself is through the Blackmagic Camera app. Unlike the native Camera app, Blackmagic offers:
- Real-time preview of your video with LUTs applied so you can see how your footage will look after grading while you shoot.
- The ability to export clips with LUTs baked in, ready to share immediately without further desktop grading.
- Powerful manual controls for focus, exposure, ISO, and shutter speed — ideal for precise cinematic capture.
Using Blackmagic Camera app together with custom LUTs from Absoluts gives you a mobile grading workflow that’s fast, professional, and perfectly optimized for iPhone Log footage.
Optional: Further Grading on Desktop (DaVinci Resolve)
While the mobile workflow is powerful on its own, you can take your footage even further by importing your Apple Log videos into desktop software like DaVinci Resolve for detailed color grading and fine-tuning.
DaVinci Resolve supports Apple Log footage natively and allows for advanced manipulation of color, contrast, and looks. This step is optional but ideal for professional filmmakers or content creators looking for maximum creative control.
Final Thoughts
Apple Log on iPhone is a game changer for mobile filmmakers wanting cinematic video quality without bulky equipment. You can capture stunning footage directly on your phone using the native Camera app, preview and grade in real time with Blackmagic Camera app, and even export ready-to-share clips with LUTs baked in.
For those looking to elevate their mobile video, Absoluts offers a curated selection of LUTs designed specifically for Apple Log footage. Explore our collection at absoluts-store.com and start turning your iPhone clips into cinematic masterpieces today.