Best Tech for the Mobile Photog
Best Tech for the Mobile Photog

by Tara Swords

If you've recently purchased a point-and-shoot or DSLR camera, you're in the minority. People are quickly abandoning their Nikons and Canons for the cameras built into their iPhones and Androids. And while the picture quality you get with your smartphone isn't always as incredible compared to what you'll get with a dedicated camera, it's pretty good -- and it's getting better with each new release. The iPhone 6S and the Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge both take 12 MP photos. And smartphones bring a host of other features that many standalone cameras don't, including dozens of third-party apps that let you edit photos, upload them to social media sites, and text pics to your friends -- all built into a device you already carry every day.

And now, there are tons of cool gadgets that will help you take your mobile photography habit even further. Here are five favorites:

1. Muku Shuttr

Selfies are so 2015, and a dead giveaway that you've been snapping yourself is your extended arm. With the Muku Shuttr, you can set the camera down and squeeze the little pocket-sized trigger to snap a selfie. It's tiny enough to fit on your keychain, making it more convenient than an unwieldy selfie stick. The Shuttr is a Bluetooth device that works with lots of devices, from iPhones to Samsungs and HTCs to Sonys. Retail price: $39.99

2. GripTight GorillaPod Stand

Photography lovers have known about GorillaPod stands for years now. They're amazing little tripods that can hold up a camera in just about any spot, thanks to their bendable, grippy legs. And now, you can get one for your phone. The GripTight GorillaPod Stand even comes in some awesome color choices. Retail price: $29.95

3. Concepter iblazr 2

For photography buffs, the worst thing about smartphone cameras is undoubtedly the flash. Depending on the situation, it's either too weak or too harsh, making your subjects look washed out and casting unflattering shadows. That's why we love the Concepter iblazr 2: It's an external flash that clips onto your phone and even lets you control the color temperature. (Cooler temperatures give your photos a bluer cast, while warmer temperatures lend a nice glow.) You can also spring for some colored diffusers to have a little extra fun. Retail price: $59.99

4. Olloclip 4-in-1 Lens

One of the best things about a DSLR camera is the interchangeable lenses -- a macro for close-ups, a wide-angle for landscapes and a fisheye for fun. The Olloclip 4-in-1 Lens brings all of that versatility to the iPhone. It clips right on and gives you access to the different lenses. Retail price: $79.99

5. Olympus Air A01

This amazing little device isn't cheap, but it sure is cool. The Olympus Air A01 looks like a lens but there's actually an entire camera in there -- except for the viewfinder and control panel; that's where your smartphone comes in. The lens packs a very hefty processor inside, giving you the best of DSLRs -- namely, killer images and fully manual control if you want it -- and the smartphone's tiny size. Spring for it if you have cash to burn on first-generation technology, or wait for the next generation. It's sure to have some impressive improvements. Retail price: $299.99

Personal Tech & Gadgets "Best Tech for the Mobile Photog"

 

 

 

 

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