Resident Evil director Zach Cregger relies on his iPhone not as a primary camera but as a vital pre-production tool. Unlike high-profile films that claim to be shot on iPhone while using tens of thousands of dollars in professional lenses, Cregger takes a different approach focused on shot planning and visual preparation.
The filmmaker describes himself as a "hyper prepper" who keeps his iPhone on him at all times. Before shooting, he visits locations with his cinematographer and uses Cadrage, an app that approximates different lenses, to build photo boards. These images show exactly what each Pro lens will capture, eliminating guesswork on set. He says this approach creates a more immersive horror experience where the protagonist's attention dictates where the camera goes.
Cregger prints the photos so the entire crew knows which lens to use for every shot. He believes anyone can make a movie with what's in their pocket, though his own budgets allow far more expensive gear. His process is detailed in an Apple TV feature for those who want to see his method firsthand.
Source: 9to5Mac · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing