Apple iPhone 17 Pro Introduces ProRes RAW and Genlock for Filmmakers

Smartphone Filmmaking

by Nino LeitnerSeptember 9^th, 2025

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Apple has unveiled the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max, marking the company’s boldest step yet into professional video production. With support for ProRes RAW, Apple Log 2, and genlock synchronization, the new models position themselves as powerful filmmaking tools while still enhancing photo performance.

Apple’s Pro iPhone line has steadily evolved into a hybrid device catering to both everyday users and professional creators. The iPhone 17 Pro continues this trajectory by bringing workflows typically reserved for cinema cameras directly into a smartphone form factor.

Pro-level video capture with ProRes RAW, and Genlock support

The headline addition for filmmakers is ProRes RAW recording. This format combines the efficiency of ProRes with the flexibility of RAW, giving editors greater control over color grading, exposure, and detail retention. For the first time, an iPhone can now slot into professional editing pipelines that demand RAW workflows, especially in Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve.

Complementing this is the introduction of Apple Log 2, expanding dynamic range for more cinematic highlight and shadow roll-off. With built-in support for the ACES color standard, iPhone footage can integrate more seamlessly into professional grading environments.

Genlock support is another industry-first for smartphones. Used in multi-camera setups, genlock allows precise synchronization between devices, reducing post-production alignment work and making the iPhone 17 Pro a viable option for multicam shoots, live events, or virtual production stages.

Blackmagic Camera ProDock required for Genlock, and more

Genlock and timecode support are supported via the new Blackmagic Camera ProDock which seems specifically made for the latest iPhone 17 Pro. On the still that Apple shared of the device in their Apple Event video, we can also see that the device adds DC In for powering the phone, serves as a USB 3.2 (2x) and USB 2 splitter, adds HDMI Out and audio minijack in and out as well.

We don’t have information about pricing and availability of that device yet, but will talk to Blackmagic Design at the upcoming IBC 2025 in Amsterdam to find out more.

Will iPhone 17 Pro ProRes RAW yield better dynamic range and latitude, and is there DCG?

We ran a full camera Lab Test on the iPhone 15 Pro which was the first iPhone to introduce ProRes 422 HQ internal recording and Apple Log. It will be interesting to see how much better the performance of the iPhone 17 Pro will be in our dynamic range and latitude tests compared to iPhone 15 Pro.

We have no information about Apple introducing a DCG-like technology (Dual Conversion Gain) with the latest iPhone top models, like Google unlocked it (quietly) with the latest Pixel 10 Pro (read our recent article on that discovery here).

We will test both phones in our standardized Lab Test environment in the coming months to see how video performance compares in dynamic range, latitude and rolling shutter, and how this performance compares to iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro.

High-speed recording and advanced stabilization

Video capabilities extend beyond codec support. The iPhone 17 Pro offers Dolby Vision HDR capture, 4K recording at up to 120fps, and dual-camera recording for front-and-back simultaneous video. The new Center Stage front camera, now 18MP, introduces ultra-stabilized 4K HDR video, expanding options for vloggers and creators working in dynamic environments.

8x optical-quality zoom, square sensor on front-facing camera

While video takes the spotlight, Apple has also refined stills. The three-camera 48MP Fusion system now includes a larger 48MP telephoto sensor with up to 8x optical-quality zoom, the longest ever on iPhone. Photographers (and filmmakers) can work with focal lengths equivalent to 13mm, 24mm, 35mm, 48mm, 100mm, and 200mm, providing the versatility of a compact lens kit in one device.

The new Center Stage front camera, which now uses a square sensor design for added flexibility, also improves selfies and group shots by automatically adjusting framing, while a wider field of view and higher resolution provide sharper results. Combined with Apple’s updated Photonic Engine and a new “Bright” Photographic Style, the iPhone continues to refine skin tones and color rendering for both casual and professional use.

A filmmaker’s companion with iPhone 17 Pro ProRes RAW in your pocket

By combining advanced codecs, genlock synchronization, and traditional strengths like Dolby Vision, the iPhone 17 Pro blurs the line between consumer device and professional production tool. For filmmakers who need a discreet, versatile, or backup camera on set, Apple has raised the bar again.

Will ProRes RAW and genlock make the iPhone a common sight on professional shoots, or will these tools remain niche additions for specialized workflows? Can you see yourself shooting iPhone 17 Pro ProRes RAW?