Many people have a mixed view or opinion on which is better, taking photographs on a mobile phone or the need for a digital DSLR camera. The answer is simple. You need to ask yourself the question, what are you going to do with the images, and what is the purpose of your photography.
The Mobile phone as a camera
Today mobile phones provide amazing cameras for taking photographs. The lenses are top notch on the more sophisticated high-end mobile phones. Developers are fast at work introducing convenient options for the everyday person to capture great pictures on their phone.
This might be a wonderful option for some, but for those wanting more control of their images, a DSLR is the right choice to make.
It all comes down to the quality of the image, and what you wish to do with it after you have taken the photo. Although the mobile phone takes great photographs, one needs to understand that light, as well as the movement needs to be taken to consideration. Poor, or low light, as well as images taken indoors, often result in a noisy image of poor quality, and again, this is similar to taking pictures where the subject is moving, you might just land up with blur, which is frustrating and spoils the photograph. Unfortunately, this cannot be helped, as the mobile device is really an automatic shutter release when you snap the image, and the camera decides for you on the settings. Despite mobile apps where certain setting can be adjusted, it will not overcome these shortfalls. Don’t be fooled…
If you are just a “passive photographer”, who mainly shoots during the day and has little concern for these details, the mobile is the perfect solution. Good daylight and fairly stationary subjects prove best in the final outcome of the shot.
The lenses on the mobile are great, and some have super glass for great quality, but there are limitations. Remember, it is still a mobile phone with a lens which is limited, despite all the apps and the plugins to edit your on the go snapping to make your picture close to perfect.
Printing photographs from the images taken on the mobile phone is another limitation. Images are small in size and generally best for online viewing where the image size and quality are seldom of importance. Just don’t try print big, you will be wasting your time on all levels. Today the likes of people posting their images on social platforms lends itself to these devices as a form of capturing the moment.
The DSLR as camera choice
From the above, I am sure you now understand what to expect, and what you are actually wanting in the end from your photography.
The DSLR camera provides manual presets and features to assist you when taking a photograph. You will need to know what you are wanting from the camera when making your choice. Most DSLRS will cater for your needs. I guess like anything your choice will be determined by your budget as to what you can afford. Seek professional advice on this and don’t just believe the salesman, or the advert, both are often misleading, rather chat to someone who is unbiased and knowledgeable in photography for advice. Alternatively attend a short course or workshop to identify and understand your needs upfront before you drown in the world of opinions.
Note that the camera is not the part that take the great shot when wanting quality, it is the lens and knowing what lens to buy. Lenses can be expensive, but once you have a lens that suits you, it’s for keeps. My advice, spend your money on a good lens first, then consider the body you need.
I trust this short article will assist you in making that decision, either an upgrade on your mobile, or put that money towards a DSLR camera.