Knives Out director Rian Johnson has launched a new iPhone camera app called Chromagraph Camera, which uses the same image processing techniques found in his movies. Developed alongside longtime cinematographer Steve Yedlin and color science programmer Eric Cameron, the app promises cinematic-looking photographs without Apple’s usual image processing.
Johnson announced the app on X on October 28, explaining that he originally wanted a personal camera app that could reproduce the visual style of his films. The team eventually decided to release it publicly, and Chromagraph quickly climbed to the top of the App Store’s paid photography charts.
How Chromagraph Camera Works
Chromagraph captures RAW sensor data and processes it using Yedlin’s custom color science, which the filmmakers also use in productions such as Knives Out and Glass Onion.
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Unlike traditional camera filters, Chromagraph bypasses Apple’s standard photographic rendering and builds its own image using custom processing.
The app offers several photography features:
- RAW photography: Captures original sensor data while preserving image quality for editing.
- Cinematic colors: Applies custom color, contrast, and tonal adjustments inspired by the filmmakers’ visual style.
- Film-like grain: Adds texture that resembles traditional film photography.
- Halation controls: Creates a subtle glow around bright areas for a softer cinematic appearance.
- Non-destructive editing: Preserves original RAW photographs while allowing adjustments and JPEG or HEIC exports.
The finished look appears after capturing a photo, giving users an experience similar to shooting with a traditional film camera.
Chromagraph Camera Price and Compatibility
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Price | $12.99, one-time purchase |
| Compatibility | iOS 17 or later |
| Photography | RAW still images |
| Video recording | Not supported |
| Android version | Not available |
You can download Chromagraph Camera from the App Store.
Johnson has also mentioned the possibility of adding video recording later, although he expects the feature would require newer Pro iPhones. For now, Chromagraph focuses entirely on still photography.
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