We’ve all watched those unforgettable movie moments, the hero walking away from an explosion in slow motion, or two characters running toward each other before a heartfelt embrace. Slow motion, when used with intention, can add drama and emotion to a scene. But like anything in filmmaking, too much can take away from its impact. In this article, we’ll dive into how to use slow motion effectively to elevate your next project.

Frame rate refers to the number of individual frames, or images captured per second in a video. When you see “24fps,” that means 24 frames per second, which is the traditional cinematic standard. Higher frame rates, like 120fps or even 3000fps (seen in ultra high-speed Phantom Cameras), allow creators to slow footage down dramatically while preserving smooth motion. With the iPhone 16 Pro’s ability to shoot 120fps in 4K, mobile filmmakers can now access pro-level slow motion in a compact, everyday device, a huge leap for content creators on the go.

To access Slo-Mo mode on your iPhone 16 Pro, open the native Camera app and swipe through the mode options until you land on “Slo-Mo.” From here, you can start capturing dramatic slow-motion footage instantly. The iPhone 16 Pro offers recording in both 1080p and 4K at 120fps, while 1080p is great for everyday use, 4K delivers sharper detail and more flexibility in post-production, especially when cropping or stabilizing footage.

For a cinematic effect, we recommend shooting in 4K at 120fps with good lighting and locking exposure/focus manually to maintain consistency throughout the clip. Pair with a SANDMARC lens or filter for an even more polished, professional look.

When shooting high-FPS (frames per second) video for slow motion, lighting becomes even more critical. Higher frame rates require faster shutter speeds, which let in less light, making proper illumination essential to avoid underexposed or grainy footage. Bright, natural light or controlled studio lighting helps maintain crisp detail and smooth motion.

For dramatic slow-mo, opt for dynamic movements like hair flips, water splashes, or even running, these actions look great in slow motion since they reveal details too fast to catch at normal speed. Composition also plays a key role, so be sure to implement close-ups to capture emotion and texture, like water droplets or facial expressions, while wide shots are perfect for showcasing full-body motion or environmental elements. Balancing these factors ensures every slow-mo shot feels cinematic and intentional.

When it comes to slow-motion storytelling, always shoot more than you think you'll need, having extra footage gives you more flexibility in editing. Plan ahead by creating a simple storyboard or outline so your slow-mo shots have purpose and flow. Don’t be afraid to experiment with elements like water splashes, flowing fabric, or even dance. Lastly, don't be afraid to challenge yourself! Try to film a 15-second story entirely in slow motion, shot on iPhone. Keep it cinematic, keep it intentional, and let your imagination lead the frame.

Don’t underestimate the power of slow motion, what starts as a casual moment can transform into something cinematic. Whether you’re filming a friend laughing, waves crashing, or city lights flickering, slow motion has the ability to elevate the ordinary!

So in your next project, give it a try. With just your iPhone and a bit of creativity, you can turn everyday scenes into filmic expressions.