It’s no secret that the iPhone is capable of capturing high-quality images, especially when it comes to cars. Car photography is the art of showcasing automobiles and highlighting unique details from various angles. In this article, we’ll discuss how to capture car photography and video on the iPhone.

Just as you get ready for a photoshoot, your car needs to be prepped as well. Make sure the car is clean to highlight every detail and reflection. Keep a microfiber towel with you in case you need to wipe off any last-minute smudges. The backdrop is also an important part of the preparation process. Depending on your overall aesthetic, you can choose between natural, urban, or industrial backgrounds. It’s important that the background is not too cluttered, as this can distract from the car as the main focal point.

Timing plays a crucial role in outdoor car photography. Golden hour, the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset, provides soft, warm light that enhances the car’s lines, curves, and reflections, creating a cinematic look. Blue hour, just before sunrise or after sunset, introduces cooler tones and moodier lighting, ideal for dramatic shots. Night photography can be equally striking, especially when incorporating ambient light from street lamps or creatively using the car’s headlights and taillights for contrast and depth.

Angles are everything when it comes to car photography. Shooting from low angles can make the car look more aggressive, while leading lines and symmetry help draw attention to the car’s shape and details. If you're on a road, driveway, or in an urban setting, use the background to highlight features like the wheels, emblems, headlights, and the textures of the car, from the tires to the exterior and interior. Pay close attention to lighting; early morning or golden hour light brings out paint tones and reduces harsh reflections. For even more detail, capture close-up shots of stitching, badges, or wheel spokes.

Attaching a unique lens or filter to your iPhone will enhance your car photos and videos, below are examples of how these can elevate your content:

The video below gives an in depth explanation of how YouTuber Oliver Cao filmed a full cinematic car commercial using the Telephoto 6x, Telephoto 2x, Macro Lens and Motion Filter.

With the right techniques and tools, your iPhone becomes a powerful camera capable of capturing cinematic car photography and video. From timing your shots around golden hour to mastering composition and elevating your content with attachable lenses and filters, the creative possibilities are endless.

Whether you're showcasing sleek lines, intricate details, or full-motion driving shots, all you need is a little prep and the right gear. Now that you’ve got the tips, it’s time to hit the road and start shooting!

What’s your favorite car to photograph or one you’d love to shoot with your iPhone? Drop it in the comments!