14 DAY TRIAL // Released in September 2014, iOS 8 brought a variety of cool features to all iPhone users. One in particular works only on new handsets and hides a few tricks that some of you may not be aware of.
Slo-mo is a new Camera app function that enables iPhone 5s and iPhone 6 users to record video in slow motion, by capturing images at a higher-than-normal frame rate, then playing back those images at a regular speed.
Use the latest iPhone
While even older handsets are capable of outputting slow-motion video (through specialized third-party apps), the results are substantially better on new-generation models. Which is why the first and foremost requirement to achieve pristine slo-mo footage is to grab yourself an iPhone 6, or at least a 5s.
Take note that the iPhone 6 Plus also boasts some sweet optical image stabilization, meaning it will try to account for your shaky hands as much as possible. Which brings us to the next tip.
Keep a steady hand
This basically goes without saying regardless of your intentions with the iPhone’s camera, or any camera for that matter. Whether you’re shooting video or taking pictures, the less your hands shake, the better the results are.
As far as slo-mo goes, keeping a steady hand ensures that your end video doesn’t turn out blurry. This is particularly important when filming birds flying, for instance.
Use as much natural light as possible
You’ll notice that slo-mo requires quite a bit of light for satisfactory results. I’m no expert, but it probably has to do with the frame rates at which it shoots video, and therefore the exposure time allotted for each frame. What I’ve also noticed is that light trembles in some conditions. Certain light bulbs and neons are based on a refresh-rate system like those CRT monitors back in the day. This can display an interesting effect, but it can also ruin the experience, depending on what you’re shooting. I’ve always had the best results using natural light.
Toggle your frame rates
The frame rate indicator (FPS) sitting on the right-hand corner is actually a toggle, in case you didn’t know. Tap it and you’ll be able to switch from 120 FPS to 240 FPS. This will affect the quality of the output video (the smoothness), the speed of the video (comes out slower and more epic with 240 FPS enabled), and the storage space you want to take up with the video (240 FPS takes up double the amount of space taken up by 120 FPS).
Capture rapid movement
This is a somewhat redundant piece of advice, but it can help newbies quite a lot. If there doesn't seem to be much action in your slo-mo videos, make sure the real-life action is fast enough.
Here are some simple starting points: shoot a friend as he/she jumps up and down and pay attention to hair movements, or the leg muscles wiggling like a waterbed. If shooting people isn't your thing, try capturing stuff like running water, tumbling objects, a game of basketball, or pets playing.
Hope these tips helped. If you have a cool slo-mo to share with the world, leave the link in the comments section below.
