There has been quite an interesting conversation that the video Side by Side Comparison between Canon 5D Mk II and Apple iPhone 4S posted by Robino Films has inspired.
Two of the questions that came out of the posting have to do with set-up or use of the iPhone 4S in the video. I found these two items of great value to any reader who has an iPhone 4S and wishes to shoot video.
Tripod Attachment
There are several after market gadgets available to help you connect your iPhone to a tripod. I found that stabilizing your iPhone is critical to coming away with video that is even half-way decent. This is obvious to long-time videographers, but is even more critical using a small, hand-held camera phone.
The tripod attachment (and the one I just ordered) used by Robino Jones is the 'Glif: iPhone 4/4S Tripod Mount & Stand' by Studio Neat. This is available at many camera stores as well as on Amazon.com* It should be noted that the Glif Tripod Mount works on a 'bare' iPhone 4/4S - it cannot be in a case (which is a bummer for me, I love my Otter Box Defender) Locked Exposure & Focus
One of the things Mr. Robino did for this comparison is that he locked the exposure and focus on the iPhone 4S to prevent drifting and searching. This technique is not readily apparent in the phone's menu or in Apple documentation.
Vimeo user Lawrence Marshall shared how to lock the AE (Auto-Exposure) and Focus - this is apparently avaialble to both the iPhone 4 and iPhone 4S, once you upgrade to the newer iOS 5: "Press and hold on the image to lock AE and Focus. This is a new feature of iOS 5."
If you'd like some more conversation on this issue, consider this online article by Wired Magazine: Phone 4S 1080p Video Is Great, But Can’t Beat a DSLR
*The asterisk signifies an affiliate link whereby Chet Davis receives a small percentage of the sale, for referring customers to the product or service.
"I do not nor will I recommend or serve as an affiliate for any goods or services I do not find of sound quality or worthy of your consideration. My reputation and relationship with my clients & colleagues is more important than a small profit to me" Chet Davis
Comments