Smartphones DSLR's and Photography

Smartphone cameras are on the cusp of replacing the digital single-lens reflex (DSLR)/mirrorless cameras. For the purpose of this article and simplicity, I will use the acronym DSLR to include mirrorless cameras, because there is a difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera.?

Apple and Samsung have quality cameras with multiple built-in lenses and features. I currently use the iPhone 13 and my wife uses the iPhone 15. So, I can only speak to my experience with the iPhones. But as mentioned Samsung does have a quality camera also.

Smartphone camera technology is only going to get better, overcoming the limitations they currently have. However there is a skeptical perception photographers will need to overcome.

Most clients have an image of a photographer arriving in a photographer's vest, hat on backwards, a camera, along with the huge bulky 70-300mm lens attached, and a camera bag with other lenses and gadgets inside.?

I can imagine the conversation between the client and photographer, showing up with only a smartphone in hand. Especially when the client has paid a large sum of money. Although, I would say it is occurring more often.

A niche market still exists for DSLR’s. Wildlife and sports photographers still need DSLR’s when using a telephoto lens. Getting up close and personal with a lion basking in the sun on a wide open plain in the Sahara with a smartphone, well isn't too smart.

There still are advantages the DSLR has over the smartphone camera. Many DSLR’s have a full frame sensor. The full frame sensor gives photographers flexibility when editing photographs in Photoshop or other photo editing software. Another advantage of a DSLR is the manual feature which allows photographers to adjust the camera settings for creativity purposes. Although smartphones have this capability, it is somewhat limited for now.

?

When photographs are placed side by side most cannot tell the difference between the images and what type of camera was used. It’s an investment when purchasing expensive camera equipment. It is also heavy and bulky. So when smartphone cameras are producing quality images at a fraction of the price, is the return of investment worth the cost??

Currently I use a combination between my DSLR, iPhone and drone. But I have been using my smartphone camera more frequently.? The technology exists for smartphone cameras to rival or exceed DSLR’s, but is not commercially available at this time. But I suspect it will be released in the near future.

Please comment and let me know if you have made the total transition to a smartphone camera.