In a recent interview, Baker shared some valuable lessons he learned while shooting Tangerine on an iPhone:
1. Embrace the Limitations
One of the biggest challenges of shooting on an iPhone is its limitations. The camera's small sensor and fixed lens can make it difficult to achieve the same level of visual quality as a traditional camera. However, Baker argues that these limitations can also be a source of creativity.
"I think the limitations of the iPhone actually helped us to be more creative," Baker said. "We had to think outside the box and come up with new ways to tell the story."
For example, Baker used the iPhone's small size to his advantage by shooting many scenes in tight, claustrophobic spaces. This created a sense of intimacy and immediacy that would have been difficult to achieve with a larger camera.
2. Keep It Simple
Another lesson Baker learned is the importance of keeping things simple. When you're shooting on an iPhone, you don't have the same resources to rely on as you would with a traditional camera. This means you need to be more selective about your shots and more efficient in your workflow.
"You really have to be disciplined when you're shooting on an iPhone," Baker said. "You don't have the luxury of being able to shoot a bunch of takes and then figure out what you want later in the edit. You have to know exactly what you want to shoot before you start rolling."
3. Be Prepared to Experiment
One of the best things about shooting on an iPhone is the freedom it gives you to experiment. With an iPhone, you can try different things without worrying about wasting expensive film or equipment.
"The iPhone is a great tool for experimentation," Baker said. "You can try different angles, different lighting conditions, different editing techniques. You can just play around and see what works."
Baker encourages aspiring filmmakers to experiment with mobile filmmaking and not be afraid to make mistakes.
4. Don't Be Afraid to Ask for Help
If you're new to mobile filmmaking, don't be afraid to ask for help. There are plenty of resources available online, including tutorials, how-to guides, and forums. You can also find local film groups where you can connect with other filmmakers and learn from their experiences.
"Don't try to do it all yourself," Baker said. "There are plenty of people who are willing to help. Just reach out and ask."
Conclusion
Sean Baker's Tangerine is a testament to what is possible when you embrace the limitations of mobile filmmaking. By following his lessons, aspiring filmmakers can learn to create high-quality films on their own without breaking the bank.