iPhone 18 Pro Camera: A Pro Photographer's Verdict with Chris Freitag
Summary
In Basic AF episode 98, hosts Tom Anderson and Jeff Battersby welcome back photographer Chris Freitag to discuss the new iPhone 18 Pro’s variable aperture camera and iOS 27 features. They explore how the f/1.48 aperture improves low-light photography and creates natural sun stars, while also reviewing the enhanced photographic styles and third-party apps like Halide and Blackmagic Camera. The conversation touches on the upcoming Apple event for home devices and the rumored touchscreen MacBook, before wrapping up with thoughts on the iPhone’s physical design and video capabilities.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest welcome
Denver Broncos schedule and recent results
Apple event rumors and new hardware
LG partnership and privacy concerns
Transition to photography and iPhone upgrade
Getting the iPhone 18 Pro for free
Thoughts on the foldable phone form factor
First impressions of the iPhone 18 Pro
Variable aperture and low light photography
Sun stars and aperture effects
Camera apps and film simulation styles
Returning to film photography
Using the iPhone camera and Leica app
Editing photographic styles in Photos app
Default settings and future camera features
Shooting at Meow Wolf and best camera adage
Camera button and zoom controls
Camera controls and third-party app updates
Holding the phone and camera launch speed
Viewfinder controls and customization
Feature availability and marketing mistakes
Apple Watch battery and upgrade frustrations
Waiting for Apple Ring and watch features
Auto aperture benefits for everyday users
Denver airport layover and wide angle lens
Square sensor and orientation flexibility
Paring down gear and iPhone filling the gap
Blackmagic Camera app and ProRes recording
Final thoughts on iPhone photography
Design grip and finish preferences
Camera differences and future expectations
Chris's work and social media presence
Show credits and music
Threads usage and app removal
Gratitude to listeners and family
Closing remarks and sign-off
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