### Shot on iPhone: Tailored Camera Module for F1 Film
Apple has made a daring move in the realm of filmmaking by embedding its technology into the fast-paced domain of Formula 1 racing. For its forthcoming F1 film, Apple instructed its engineers to develop a tailored camera module utilizing iPhone parts to supplant the conventional onboard cameras employed in live race telecasts. This groundbreaking tactic aims to provide genuine, driver-view perspectives that enrich the cinematic experience.
#### But… Why?
According to Wired, director Joseph Kosinski and cinematographer Claudio Miranda aimed to capture authentic racing viewpoints. However, the issue emerged from the necessity to install a camera on an F1 vehicle without disrupting aerodynamics or safety. Conventional Hollywood cinema cameras are excessively cumbersome and heavy for such high-speed settings, while typical broadcast cameras fall short in the cinematic quality needed for the film. Apple recognized this chance to demonstrate its engineering expertise by crafting a compact, iPhone-powered camera system capable of enduring the challenges of F1 racing.
#### iPhone Sensor, A-Series Chip, and Tailored Firmware
To satisfy the particular needs of the F1 atmosphere, Apple engineered a camera rig that, while not resembling an iPhone on the outside, integrates an iPhone camera sensor and an A-series chip internally. It is believed that the rig employs the 48MP sensor and A17 Pro silicon found in the iPhone 15 Pro.
Furthermore, the rig features an iPhone battery and a neutral density (ND) filter to grant filmmakers enhanced control over exposure in bright settings. The footage is recorded in ProRes Log format, permitting extensive color grading and seamless incorporation with the remainder of the film.
One significant technical limitation is that F1 rules ban active radios in the vehicles, hindering wireless camera control. To overcome this restriction, Apple devised a custom iPad app that links to the camera rig via USB-C, allowing filmmakers to modify settings such as shutter angle, ISO, white balance, and frame rate.
The footage filmed with this revolutionary system will be integrated throughout the F1 movie, which is scheduled to debut worldwide on June 25 and in U.S. theaters and IMAX on June 27.
Apple TV+ provides a subscription service for $9.99 per month, featuring popular series and films, including “Ted Lasso,” “Severance,” “The Studio,” “The Morning Show,” “Shrinking,” and “Silo.”
