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    The Journey

    40 filmmakers. 20 countries. We're delighted to introduce our incredible crowd-sourced film captured entirely on Xperia.

    Watch The Journey
    Watch The Journey

    Behind the camera with cinematographer Mateo Willis

    Tips from an award-winning cameraman

    As the man behind the camera for groundbreaking wildlife documentaries like Planet Earth II and Frozen Planet, Mateo Willis knows what it takes to capture the natural world at its most extraordinary. And he’s shared his tips and techniques with us.

    Super slow motion

    Some things happen so fast they’re barely visible to us. Award-winning cinematographer Mateo Willis gives his tips on getting the best out of Super slow motion.

    Look for change

    Consider why you’re using Super slow motion. Choose a subject with movement and look for that moment in time when something transformational happens.

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    Get the light right

    Any high speed filming needs plenty of light, as the light has less time to create an image in your camera. So make sure your subject is well lit for beautiful Super slow motion footage.

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    Shoot again and again

    When filming a subject at speed, practice really does make perfect. Shoot again and again until you capture the moment exactly as you want it.

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    • Look for change
    • Get the light right
    • Shoot again and again

    Colour

    Cinematographer Mateo Willis shares his advice on bringing colour to life in your photographs and films.

    Tell your story

    Colour helps convey moods and feelings. Think about what mood you want to capture, and how you want people to feel when watching your film.

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    Natural light

    One of the central challenges of filming the natural world is working with available light. Colours will look very different depending on the time of day. Consider this when you are planning your shot.

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    Backlit images

    Strong sunlight behind the subject can create a powerful visual. This is because it separates the foreground from the background, creating depth in your image.

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    Overcast light

    The sun doesn’t always shine – but you can use this to your advantage. Muted colours look more vivid under overcast light as colours don’t have to compete with each other.

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    • Tell your story
    • Natural light
    • Backlit images
    • Overcast light

    Movement

    Something as light and portable as a smartphone is ideal for capturing moving subjects. In this video, Mateo Willis shares his tips and techniques on movement.

    Plan your move

    When filming motion try to predict the subject’s next move before it happens. Work out where you’re going to start and stop. By thinking ahead you have a chance to create a real connection with your subject.

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    Predictive Capture

    Using a tool like Predictive Capture on Xperia can help with snapping that perfect picture. The feature takes a number of shots, allowing you to choose the ideal frame, and to study your subject.

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    Think fast

    While natural wonders like a stunning sunrise give you time to plan your shot, animals are another matter entirely. So you need to be ready to think and act incredibly quickly.

    Perspective

    When filming animals, try moving the camera with them. Match their speed, and keep the camera at, or slightly below, their eye level. This way your audience will get to experience the world through their eyes.

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    • Plan your move
    • Predictive Capture
    • Think fast
    • Perspective

    Style

    Mateo Willis talks developing your own style, with tips on standing out when anyone with a smartphone can be a filmmaker or photographer.

    Capture everything

    Start by shooting what you see. Have your camera with you at all times and capture the world around you.

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    Narrow your focus

    Once you begin shooting, you’ll quickly see what you’re drawn to – which gives you a chance to be more selective. Throw away what you don’t like, and concentrate on what appeals to you.

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    Give yourself constraints

    Having too much choice can lead to indecision – and this can mean missing an amazing shot. So give yourself constraints – like, for example, focusing on a particular colour or angle. This will help define your style.

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    Have an opinion

    We like to watch films and look at photographs to see the world through the eyes of someone else – to be surprised, excited, or moved. How do you see the world? Find your own unique perspective.

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    • Capture everything
    • Narrow your focus
    • Give yourself constraints
    • Have an opinion
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