Camera technology in smartphones has continually improved since Apple released the first iPhone in 2007. Now, almost 20 years later, with these little wonders in most consumers pockets, the need to buy stand-alone cameras to take high-quality pictures has virtually disappeared.
Not only are smartphone cameras able to capture a high amount of depth and detail in every shot, with newer models having a resolution of 48 megapixels or more, but perks other than just pocket-friendly portability make smartphone photography fun, accessible and satisfying.
With a few taps and swipes on the touchscreen, users can switch between photo settings, like macro mode and live capture, and edit on the spot for instant personalization. Macro mode on the iPhone doesn’t even need input to activate. Users just open the camera app and move the lens close to the subject, and it will automatically shift to macro, indicated by a flower icon. Macro can be disabled by tapping the icon.
Under camera settings, users can navigate to formats then photo capture, to access professional photo formats.
These include JPEG Max, ProRAW and ProRAW Max. One default is allowed to be set at a time. ProRAW Max, in particular, allows for a sharp image, capturing in depth detail.
The iPhone also has a live feature to capture a short video clip — about one second — before taking the photo. If pictures are worth a thousand words, this setting raises the value to a million.
The editing tools offer another great perk for using the iPhone for photography.
The photo app on iPhone has the basic tools needed to amplify the look and quality of a photo. Editing apps like VSCO and Lightroom allow users to completely change the style and colors. This can make for cool, crossprocessed or vintage effects.
If you’re on a budget, or trying out photography, and not looking to haul a massive camera bag, a laptop, heavy equipment and cumbersome lenses, the iPhone is your best bet. The iPhone works to capture great shots for daily photography and makes editing easy.
