Tilt-shift photography allows photographers to manipulate an image, making objects appear life-sized or like miniature scale models, or simply adjusting lines within the image to create a focused effect. Techniques to enhance this include utilizing bokeh and adjusting the angle at which the image is captured. Many photographers utilize tilt-shift photography for architecture, product, landscape or miniature photography and video. In this guide we will go over how to accomplish tilt-shift photography and video on iPhone, with an emphasis on miniature scale models.

A. Using Built-In Camera Features: The iPhone does offer built-in features for tilt-shift photography. The portrait mode applies a natural bokeh effect on images, while the manual focus will allow you focus on specific details.
B. Using Tilt-Shift Apps: Another option is to download apps that allow for more in depth tilt-shift photography and video settings like CapCut, Lightroom or VSCO. Third party apps are a game changer in iPhone photography and are worth downloading.

C. Tips for the Best Tilt-Shift Effect: Additional editing and apps can enhance tilt-shift photography, but applying certain effects while capturing scenes will elevate your look even more. To achieve a miniature effect, shooting from a high angle and implementing high-contrast colors will create a more toy-like appearance. Choosing settings with a lot of depth and detail will also heighten the effect.
D. Editing for Tilt-Shift Look: The blur, sharpness, vibrancy, and contrast are key elements when editing for a tilt-shift effect. VSCO and Lightroom will allow for intensive editing in these areas, making it easy to pinpoint exactly where blur is needed in your photo, along with straightening lines. The Lightroom app allows for editing, but the desktop version offers even greater editing capabilities. The video below walks through the desktop version, but similar editing options can also be made on mobile.

Tilt-shift photography and video offer a fun way to create unique photos and videos. It takes imagination and creativity to capture these distinctive angles. Through trial and error, anyone can achieve the effect of miniature scale models.

The SANDMARC Probe Lens and Macro Lens capture close-up shots from a bug’s eye perspective, with the Probe Lens also offering the ability to shoot from unique angles by fitting through tight spaces. While neither lens creates the blur effect, they both complement any tilt-shift photo or video endeavors.