The iPhone 16 lineup is making waves, but the iPhone 16 Pro Max is setting the stage for a new era of mobile photography and videography. Apple’s latest flagship is packed with features that elevate its camera capabilities to professional levels, and for those who know how to push its limits, the results can be astonishing. Emmett Sparling, a renowned Canadian travel photographer and videographer, recently had the chance to get behind the lens of the iPhone 16 Pro Max. His advice? Treat it like your pro SLR camera, and you’ll get pro results.
A pro-level camera in your pocket
Emmett Sparling’s photography journey started when he was just 12-years-old, but today he’s a sought-after creator who travels the world capturing breathtaking visuals. While he’s used countless cameras over the years, the iPhone 16 Pro Max left a strong impression. According to Emmett, the key to unlocking its potential is to approach it with the same mindset as you would a professional camera.
“There are few things that compare to having such a powerful little camera in your pocket,” Emmett explains. “It’s a comforting feeling knowing that I always have a camera on-hand if I need it.” With the iPhone 16 Pro Max’s new 48MP Ultra Wide camera and the ability to shoot 4K video at 120 fps in Dolby Vision, it’s not just about convenience anymore—it’s about having a legitimate tool for professional-level work.
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The power of Camera Control
One of the standout features of the iPhone 16 lineup is Camera Control, a tool that integrates hardware and software to give users more precise control over their photography. This new addition transforms how creators like Emmett interact with the camera, allowing them to adjust settings like exposure and depth of field with ease.
“Having a camera that’s as small, durable, and high quality as the iPhone 16 Pro allows me to get right in the action to shoot these moments,” Emmett says. Whether it’s capturing the perfect candid shot or diving into more complex scenes, the iPhone’s ability to provide high-quality results on the fly is what makes it a game-changer for him.
iPhone 16 rigged up with MOMENT mobile accessories and filmmaker cage. (PHOTO: COURTESY OF MOMENT)
Pro-level tips for the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max
While the iPhone 16 Pro Max comes equipped with cutting-edge technology, Emmett insists that the results come down to how you use it. His biggest piece of advice? Treat your iPhone like a pro SLR camera.
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“For example, I always shoot with a polarizer on my Sony camera, so I started doing the same thing with my iPhone and it made a huge difference,” he says. Polarizing filters can enhance contrast and make colours pop, even when shooting on a mobile device. “ND filters for video are also super helpful when you use pro camera apps like Black Magic or Moment.”
For photographers who want to take their mobile photography to the next level, Emmett recommends shooting in ProRAW: “It makes such a difference if you plan on editing your photos afterwards. The quality is insane, and it gives you so much more flexibility.”
Elevating mobile videography with 4K 120 fps
The iPhone 16 Pro Max isn’t just about still photography—it’s also a powerhouse for videographers. With the ability to shoot 4K 120 fps video in ProRes, this phone offers cinema-grade quality that few mobile devices can match. Emmett was particularly impressed with this feature, saying, “Action shots in 4k 120p are going to look incredible compared to previous iPhone models.”
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This new capability allows creators to capture smooth, slow-motion video with stunning clarity, making it ideal for everything from adventure shots to more cinematic projects. And for those working in unpredictable environments, the iPhone’s durable design and portability are added bonuses.
Making the most of low-light photography
When it comes to photography, lighting can make or break a shot. Fortunately, the iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in low-light conditions, thanks to its upgraded sensor and new tripod mode. For Emmett, this is one of the features that sets it apart from other mobile devices.
“In terms of photos, I think the iPhone 16 Pro models are both incredible in low light—especially if you have a tripod,” he notes. “The tripod mode and 30-second exposure create the best results I’ve ever seen out of such a small camera and sensor.”
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This means that even in challenging lighting scenarios, the iPhone 16 Pro Max can produce high-quality images, rivaling those captured on more traditional cameras.
The key to professional results: mindset
At the end of the day, Emmett believes that the iPhone 16 Pro Max can deliver professional-level results—if you treat it like a professional camera. Whether you’re using filters, shooting in ProRAW, or leveraging the new Camera Control features, the phone’s potential is only as good as how it’s used.
“Treat it like your SLR and you’ll get great results,” Emmett advises. “Use polarizing filters, ND’s, Mist, etc. because that’s what you’d normally use on a pro SLR anyway.”
By approaching the iPhone 16 Pro Max as more than just a smartphone, creators can unlock a world of possibilities, capturing stunning visuals that push the boundaries of mobile photography and videography. Whether you’re an experienced pro or a passionate hobbyist, this device is ready to deliver—if you’re willing to treat it like the professional tool it is.
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Hero video: Courtesy of Emmett Sparling, shot on the iPhone 16 Pro Max, pre-release in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
