Dubai’s Expo 2020 is in full swing, offering tourists and locals a chance to get to grips with more than 180 countries and a tonne of awesome experiences. And for photographer Aqib Anwar, it also makes for a fantastic subject.
Anwar recently captured some of the Expo 2020 highlights in a recently published video. Interestingly, for this project he shunned his traditional camera instead using the one he had readily in his pocket, his iPhone.
Why choose the expo for the subject of the video?
Expo 2020 is the biggest spectacle on earth right now so what better subject to choose to test out the new iPhone. I knew the Expo had fantastic architecture and lighting and so the photowalk hosted by foto.uae and mydubai seemed to be the perfect time to take the phone out for a spin.
What is the biggest improvement between the current iPhone Pro and previous versions?
I had the 12 Pro Max and honestly, the 13 Pro Max’s camera and battery life is something else. A better screen with 120Hz makes for an incredible user experience. But primarily for me though, it is the cameras. 3x native zoom on the second camera and vast improvements to the Macro camera make for extensive options while being creative with photos & video. It’s honestly incredible how good the cameras are!
Did you use any additional gear in the making of the video (gimbals, etc.)
Nope, just native camera app and handheld!
Do you ever foresee smartphones taking the place of traditional cameras?
Yes and no.
Cameras on smartphones are improving exponentially year by year and some of the things it can pull off are ridiculous.
However, I still feel the traditional cameras, with their own leaps in tech will always have an edge; with the option of using different lenses, connecting to studio flashes, etc.
But they say the best camera is the one you have on you when you need it. In that regard, I now find myself going places without my bulky camera and trust that the iPhone in my pocket can deliver, and it does not disappoint!
Does the iPhone Pro Max make it easier for those interested in video to create better work?
Most definitely. I shot this video in 4k resolution.
The ability to shoot 4k 60fps is something my camera doesn’t have at the moment, so it’s great that the phone can do it. In addition to incredible slow mo at 240fps and the new cinematic mode that gives out crispy bokeh on video (albeit software-induced).
Video tips? What are some mistakes you see people making when they try and shoot video with their phones?
Steady hands! A stable video makes for good viewing so always make sure you have both hands on your phone while shooting. Lock your shoulders and let your arms move like a gimbal for that handheld stability.
I wouldn’t say mistakes, but often videos with poor lighting don’t look very good. Always look for good light. Tap and hold on to different areas on the screen to either bring up or bring down the exposure accordingly. And lastly, composition. Compose your videos well to make for an enjoyable viewing experience.