iPhone 15-16 vs. Pocket 3 & ZV1: My Journey Back to the iPhone for Video
After chasing the dream of compact cameras like the Pocket 3 and ZV1 for so long, I've found myself circling back to shooting video with my iPhone 16 Pro. It's a decision born from experience, and honestly, convenience often wins.
Why the iPhone Still Reigns Supreme for My Video Needs
The sheer practicality of not having to lug around a separate camera and a bundle of accessories is a massive advantage. What seals the deal for me is that the video quality from the iPhone, especially now, is more than competitive. The ability to directly shoot in 10-bit 4:2:2 using H.265 or capture to an external SSD in ProRes 422 is a game-changer.
Unlocking Dynamic Range in Post-Production
From a post-production standpoint, I've consistently found that the iPhone's file gives me more flexibility. I can recover more detail compared to the Pocket 3, which caps at 10-bit 4:2:0, or the ZV1, limited to 8-bit 4:2:0. This means when I'm adjusting exposure balance, the footage from my iPhone holds up much better without looking muddy. And for those times when I rely on auto settings, the iPhone's intelligent algorithms simply outshine the competition, delivering more consistent results.
The Trade-offs: What the iPhone Sacrifices (and What It Doesn't)
Of course, the iPhone's smaller sensor means less background blur and less stellar performance in low light. However, I've found that the Pocket 3 and ZV1 aren't significantly better in these areas. Both often require noise reduction in post, making the results fairly comparable in my opinion. You do get a slightly cleaner, sharper image from the dedicated cameras due to their lens quality, giving a more "in-focus" look compared to the iPhone's sometimes softer output. The ZV1 also offers a physical aperture, allowing for creative effects that neither the iPhone nor the Pocket 3 can replicate.
To illustrate, check out the underexposed footage I captured on the iPhone 16 Pro. Even after pulling back the exposure, the noise is minimal, and the details are well-preserved, making the source footage salvageable. For the ZV1 in a similar situation, I'd likely consider the footage unusable, while the Pocket 3 can be hit or miss.
Ultimately, for my needs in vlogging and general on-the-go video shooting, the iPhone continues to be an outstanding tool. If you're already rocking an iPhone 15 Pro or a newer model, I genuinely believe there's little reason to invest in a dedicated vlogging camera.
Cre: Neyako Phạm
