The world of photography has undergone significant changes in recent years, with smartphone cameras becoming increasingly capable of producing high-quality images. While this may come as a surprise to casual photographers, it’s a reality that professional photographers have had to adapt to. In this article, we’ll explore the growing trend of using smartphones, specifically iPhones, in professional photography.
The Rise of iPhone Photography in Magazines
Recently, several prominent magazines have published covers shot on an iPhone. These include Billboard, Condé Nast Traveler, and now, Bon Appétit. The latter magazine has officially joined the ranks of those using iPhones for their cover photos. This shift towards smartphone photography is a significant milestone in the industry.
Bon Appétit‘s Decision to Use an iPhone
The decision to use an iPhone was not taken lightly by Bon Appétit‘s Creative Director, Alex Grossman. In fact, he explained that it made sense to finally feature an iPhone photo on the cover, given the connection between photography and travel. The cover photo, shot on an iPhone 7 Plus in the Tlacolula Market of Oaxaca, Mexico, combines people and food in a beautiful way.
The Benefits of Using an iPhone
So, what makes the iPhone such a great tool for professional photographers? According to Grossman, the iPhone’s Portrait mode is particularly useful when capturing people and places. The device’s technical capabilities, combined with its portability, make it an attractive option for photographers.
Taylor Peden and Jen Munkvold, the husband-and-wife team behind Peden + Munk, also praised the iPhone’s ease of use and portability. They mentioned that shooting with a smartphone allowed them to work with a small crew, creating a more comfortable and natural atmosphere on set.
The Power of VSCO
In addition to the iPhone itself, Peden and Munkvold credited the VSCO app for its ability to edit photos on-the-go. This allowed them to refine their images in real-time, without the need for a laptop or extensive editing software.
A New Era in Professional Photography?
Grossman’s vision for Bon Appétit is clear: the iPhone can become an essential tool in the magazine’s toolbox. While it may not be at the level of a $25,000 DSLR camera, he believes that with the right conditions, even the most discerning photographers might not notice the difference.
The potential implications of this shift are significant. As Peden and Munkvold noted, some professional photographers might view the rise of smartphone photography as a threat to their skills. However, they see it as an opportunity for innovation and growth in the industry.
A New Era in Professional Photography? (Continued)
The use of smartphones in professional photography is not without its challenges. One potential drawback is the need for photographers to adapt to new technologies and workflows. Nevertheless, Grossman’s words ring true: "We always have to be pushing and evolving our aesthetic anyway."
In conclusion, the rise of iPhone photography in professional magazines marks a significant shift in the industry. While there are still challenges to be addressed, it’s clear that smartphones, specifically iPhones, have become a viable option for photographers.
A Look Ahead
As technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how smartphone photography adapts and grows as a medium. With more magazines adopting this approach, it’s likely that we’ll see even more innovative uses of iPhone cameras in the future.
The Future of Photography
In an industry where technology is constantly evolving, it’s essential for photographers to stay adaptable and open-minded. The rise of smartphone photography is just one example of how the medium is shifting. As we look ahead, it will be exciting to see what new trends and innovations emerge in the world of professional photography.
