Rian Johnson launches Chromagraph Camera, an iPhone app for 'Knives Out' film look

Chromagraph Camera Release

Hollywood director Rian Johnson has introduced Chromagraph Camera, a new iPhone application. The app is designed to replicate the specific image processing techniques employed in his 'Knives Out' film series. This release follows discussions about the iPhone's native image processing and the demand for third-party camera apps offering greater control over photo processing.

Technical Approach

Chromagraph Camera was commissioned by Johnson from cinematographer Steve Yedlin. Unlike typical filters that apply effects over existing processing, Chromagraph starts with raw image data and applies its own processing methods. This approach aims to provide a distinct visual outcome from the initial capture stage.

App Features and Availability

The app is available for $12.99 and does not include in-app purchases. It supports the iPhone Duo. Users frame shots through the viewfinder and see the final processed look only after the image is captured and opened in the gallery. The app includes tools for color, tone, and texture adjustments while maintaining its core visual style. It also stores full-quality raw files and allows export of smaller files for sharing or saving to the photo library.

Origin and Purpose

Johnson stated on X that he initially requested Yedlin and color science developer Eric Cameron to create the app for his personal use. The app's design reflects a curated look preferred by Johnson and Yedlin, bypassing Apple's standard computational photography to achieve a specific aesthetic.