iPhone 17 Pro vs Fujifilm X-M5 — which would you choose for filmmaking/cinematography with a $1,500 budget?

I’m trying to decide where to put around $1,500 max into my filmmaking setup.

I previously had an iPhone 16 Pro and I was already using it for some client work, mainly shooting through the Blackmagic Camera app. I sold it because I originally planned to upgrade to an iPhone 17 Pro and build a small filmmaking rig around it with things like:

• ND filter
• cage / filmmaking case
• external SSD
• mounts/handles

But while researching, I found the Fujifilm X-M5 and now I’m considering using the money to move into a proper interchangeable-lens camera system instead.

My main goals are:

• Cinematic filmmaking
• Learning cinematography properly
• Client/commercial work
• Travel films
• Outdoor/adventure filming
• Sports
• Solo shooting
• Travel photography
• Color grading / shooting Log
• Keeping the setup relatively compact

I already have a MacBook for editing.

The X-M5 + 15-45mm kit lens would also leave some of my budget available for an ND filter, SD card, extra battery, and eventually a better lens.

The iPhone would obviously be much easier for stabilization, quick shooting, sports/outdoor use, and always having the camera with me. I’m also already comfortable with the iPhone + Blackmagic Camera workflow.

But I’m wondering if spending the money on another phone would limit my growth compared with learning lenses, aperture, manual exposure, focus, lighting, F-Log2, and a more traditional camera workflow on the Fuji.

I’m buying new, and $1,500 is my absolute maximum for the complete setup, not just the camera body.

If you had my goals and could only choose one:

1. iPhone 17 Pro + filmmaking rig

or

2. Fujifilm X-M5 + lens/accessories

Which would you choose, and why?

I’d especially like to hear from people who have actually used the X-M5 for video, or who moved from iPhone filmmaking to a dedicated camera.

And if you think there’s a better new camera option under $1,500 for the complete setup, I’m open to suggestions.