The Impact of Smartphones on Professional Photographers: Are They Being Rendered Jobless?

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The Evolution of Photography: Impact of Smartphones and the Future for Professional Photographers

When I reminisce about my childhood, I remember the "photo man" who preserved our memories with his trusty camera, film reels, and the anticipation of collecting developed photos. Those were the days when negatives had to be taken to a studio for processing, as memory cards were yet to exist. However, times have changed, and the advent of digital cameras and smartphones has led to an influx of photographers.

A photographer friend of mine, who has been in the industry for years, laments the impact of smartphones on professional photographers. He believes that smartphones are rendering them jobless, as they struggle to compete in an industry that has become increasingly saturated. In the past, he could earn a substantial income of Kshs 100,000 (US$1,000) during a good weekend, but now he barely takes home a quarter of that.

As a former print journalist, I witnessed the rise of smartphones and the challenges they posed to photojournalists. Before the proliferation of phone technology in African markets, professional photographers and photojournalists were in high demand. A well-composed and captivating photo accompanying an article could instantly grab readers' attention. The day I acquired a smartphone, marked a turning point in my career as I could gather stories and capture professional-grade photos simultaneously. Consequently, I stopped relying on photojournalists and embraced the capabilities of my smartphone.

Smartphones have undergone a revolution, transforming into highly-capable image-capturing devices. Some of the latest smartphone models outperform top-of-the-line compact cameras. For example, the iPhone 7 Plus introduced dual lenses, enabling users to capture stunning portraits. Other smartphone manufacturers are also enhancing their cameras with larger sensors to cater to the photography market. With improved image quality and features like HDR, some photographers believe that smartphones alone are sufficient for professional results.

Today, it's not uncommon to see people using their smartphones to capture important events like weddings, workshops, and company retreats. This seismic shift in the photography business has caused significant disruptions, leading to a major shakeup in the industry. However, I firmly believe that professional photographers should not feel threatened. While early photographers focused on high resolution and pixel count, today's audience values the artistry and storytelling ability of photos. It's crucial to remember that photographers are storytellers, creating captivating images that resonate with viewers in unique ways.

Despite smartphones performing admirably in outdoor settings, they still face challenges in low-light indoor environments. Reviews indicate that iPhones tend to capture more background information than DSLR cameras, resulting in darker backgrounds with the enhanced definition in trees, while DSLR shots may have a more stylized effect. Achieving good photo quality still requires natural light, often necessitating the turning off of artificial lighting in a room. This can be a challenge for even sophisticated smartphones like the iPhone 7 Plus, as they lack manual control settings. Consequently, DSLR cameras still maintain their superiority in terms of picture quality.

While the demand for professional photography may be diminishing, clients will increasingly seek photographers who offer something beyond what smartphones can provide. Many new or aspiring photographers lack consistency and business experience, often undercharging clients to beat the competition. To succeed in this evolving marketplace, experts suggest that photographers should adapt to technological changes, specialize in specific genres, stand apart from the competition, and invest considerable effort into marketing and attracting their ideal clients.

In conclusion, smartphones have significantly impacted the photography industry, but professional photographers can still thrive by embracing these changes and demonstrating their unique value proposition. By adapting to technological advancements, offering exceptional artistry, and meeting the specific needs of clients, photographers can continue to excel in an era dominated by smartphone photography.

Note to readers: This article was originally published by this author on Epicentermedia in 2016.

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