
Welcome to My Filmmaking Tips Blog!
Every month, I’ll be sharing practical tips and tricks to make videography simpler for everyone; whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your skills. With years of experience behind the camera, I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t, and now I’m breaking it all down so anyone can create better videos without the need for professional training.
My goal is to demystify the filmmaking process, offering insights on everything from shooting techniques to editing hacks. This blog is all about sharing the lessons I’ve learned along the way, helping you avoid common pitfalls and make the most of your gear, no matter what you’re working with.
Get ready to shoot like a pro; no fancy equipment or technical jargon required!
Derek, #Storyteller
Cinematic Mode on your phone

If you want to achieve a shallow depth of field and create a cinematic look on your smartphone, you can use Cinematic Mode on iPhone or Portrait Video on Android. These modes automatically blur the background while keeping your subject in sharp focus, mimicking the look of a professional camera.
On iPhone (Cinematic Mode)
- Open the Camera app and switch to Cinematic Mode.
- Tap on your subject to lock focus, and the iPhone will smoothly adjust focus as they move.
- You can even adjust the depth effect (f-stop) after recording in the Photos app, refining the blur for a more professional look.
On Android (Portrait Video Mode)
- Open your Camera app and select Portrait Video Mode (name may vary by brand, such as Samsung’s “Live Focus Video” or Google Pixel’s “Cinematic Pan”).
- Tap on your subject to apply the depth effect, and some phones allow you to adjust the blur strength in real-time.
- Just like on iPhone, some Android devices let you edit the blur effect after recording, giving you more control over the final look.
Both options let you achieve that cinematic, storytelling vibe without needing expensive camera gear. Just ensure you have good lighting and keep your subject at the right distance to enhance the effect!
And remember, if your background blur looks a little too strong, don’t worry… it’s not you losing focus, it’s just your phone trying to be extra dramatic!