# iPhone 16 Pro: A Filmmaker’s Perspective
In the rapidly advancing realm of smartphone technology, the newest versions of the iPhone frequently spark enthusiasm among consumers and filmmakers alike. Nonetheless, Joey Helms, a distinguished filmmaker recognized for his breathtaking urban footage captured with yearly iPhone Pro models, has recently voiced his opinions on the iPhone 16 Pro. Helms suggests that the latest version does not signify a considerable upgrade from its forerunner, the iPhone 15 Pro.
## Limited Upgrades in the iPhone 16 Pro
Helms has expressed his views regarding the iPhone 16 Pro, especially concerning filmmaking. He emphasizes that although there are certain enhancements, they might not be significant enough to justify an upgrade for numerous users. One of his primary critiques focuses on the Camera Control button, which he describes as unreliable and tricky. Helms mainly utilizes it to initiate recording, yet he feels it could be designed to be more user-friendly.
### Audio Capabilities
Regarding audio, Helms admits that the audio mixing features of the iPhone 16 Pro are impressive when played on the device itself. However, he notes that the shortcomings become apparent when using headphones or larger speakers. He remarks:
> “As soon as you have headphones on or use bigger speakers, the noise cancelation artifacts and wobble become clear. So net net, it is cool for quick mobile edits and social posts, but no one will yet rely on an iPhone to record sound for any professional work.”
### The 120fps Slo-Mo Feature
One of the few noteworthy upgrades Helms emphasizes is the capacity to capture high-quality 120fps slow-motion video. Nevertheless, he expresses doubts about its practical use:
> “In my opinion, the only worthy upgrade in the 16 series from a filmmaking perspective is the ability to shoot 120fps in 4K and ProRes LOG. This said, 120fps is somewhat an odd frame rate since it is too slow for most shots but not slow enough to get a real slow-motion wow effect. Either way, it is not a frame rate many will use regularly, and from that perspective, an upgrade from 15 Pro to 16 Pro is not worth it for most.”
## Improvements in SSD Recording
Despite his concerns regarding the overall upgrades, Helms did observe enhancements in the reliability of SSD recording. He stresses the necessity of formatting the SSD to ExFat before utilizing it, as he faced difficulties while recording at 120fps 4K ProRes with an incorrectly formatted SSD. His recommendation is vital for filmmakers aiming to maximize the capabilities of the iPhone 16 Pro.
> “I noticed that recording onto SSDs (which I do by default when shooting in ProRes LOG) is much more reliable compared to when the 15 Pro launched. Big watch out though, format the SSD to ExFat before.”
## Drone Filming Challenges
This year’s footage included a substantial number of aerial shots, which raised questions about Helms’ filming methods. He detailed how he installed the iPhone 16 Pro on a custom-built iFlight Chimera 7-inch FPV drone using a 3D printed mount. However, he encountered challenges due to the aerodynamics of the iPhone and the micro-vibrations induced by the drone’s movements.
> “The challenges we ran into were twofold: 1) iPhones are not very aerodynamic, and it acted as a sail on the drone. This made split-S drops down a building more difficult. 2) The micro vibrations by the drone in combination with the image stabilization on the phone led to wobbles.”
Helms also mentioned that although he tried to disable the enhanced stabilization feature, it was not entirely achievable, leading to additional complications in attaining smooth footage.
## Conclusion
Joey Helms’ reflections on the iPhone 16 Pro present a mix of advancements and constraints. While the new model brings forth some enhancements, especially in SSD recording and the ability to shoot 120fps footage, it might not revolutionize filmmaking for many. As technology continually advances, filmmakers must consider the trade-offs of upgrading in light of their particular requirements and the practical usages of new features. For the time being, the iPhone 16 Pro might function as a useful tool for casual users and social media creators, but it does not yet meet the demanding standards of professional filmmaking.
