Phone Photography: Hidden Camera Features for Stunning Mobile Shots
- Gary Holpin
- Oct 9
- 4 min read
Did You Know You Could Do This on Your Smartphone Camera?
The reason I thought this was a good topic to cover in a blog is that I’ve just finished teaching one of my phone photography courses at the Symondsbury Estate in Dorset. Participants were genuinely surprised by what their smartphones can do, and I realised many keen photographers overlook the hidden potential in their pockets. Although not as good as a dedicated camera for some of the more technical types of shot, their huge benefit is that they are almost certain to be with you when something unexpected happens! So, this blog explores some lesser-known features that can transform landscape photography using the device most people always have to hand. You may need to check your phone manual, both to see if your particular model offers each feature, and how to select it.
Go Beyond Auto: Pro and Manual Modes
Many modern smartphones offer Pro or Manual modes that mimics some of the exposure control you get from dedicated cameras. Adjusting settings like ISO, shutter speed and white balance gives far more creative flexibility for landscapes, from capturing low-light dawns to smoothing out movements in rivers and clouds.
Timelapse and Long Exposure Tricks
Most phones have a Timelapse mode that’s perfect for recording changing light or drifting clouds. Some models go further, offering long exposure features or AI-powered “motion” effects that are brilliant for silky water scenes and dramatic skies—no tripod needed.
Hidden Gems: HDR, Panorama and Burst
HDR (High Dynamic Range): Combines several exposures to balance bright skies with shaded foregrounds, great for sunrise or sunset. Some phones even do this automatically.
Panorama: Stitch wide vistas for sweeping scenes; a staple for both dramatic landscapes and cityscapes.
Burst: Holds the shutter for rapid-fire shots—ideal for capturing waves, moving grass, or action shots of people, wildlife or pets so you can choose the best shot later.
Focus, Exposure and Image Stabilisation
Easily tap to focus and swipe to adjust exposure is offered on many phone cameras, ensuring the critical part of the landscape is sharp and correctly lit. Look out for optical image stabilisation (OIS) and digital stabilisation to help eliminate camera shake—crucial for low-light shots or handheld long exposures.
Portrait and Macro Modes for Creative Landscapes
Portrait mode: Not just for people; use it to add subtle background blur and draw the viewer's eye to important landscape elements.
Macro mode: Many phones now offer close-up abilities for details like flowers, textures, or insects, adding variety to standard scenery.
Compositional Aids and Shooting Tips
Grid overlays: Enable the rule-of-thirds grid for stronger compositions and straighter horizons—often a tap away in the camera settings.
Self-timer: Use it with a mini tripod or propping the phone up for sharper night scenes or long exposures.
RAW shooting: If available, shoot in RAW format for maximum editing flexibility.
Special Modes and Apps
Some higher-end devices offer specific night sky or astrophotography modes for capturing stars and moonlit scenery. Explore editing apps such as Snapseed or Lightroom mobile to fine-tune colour and contrast, crop or straighten horizons, and add finishing touches with filters or selective adjustments.
Practical Extras
Clip-on lenses, mini tripods, and remote shutter releases can further enhance smartphone photography. But remember: the real power is in learning what’s possible with the app and settings already at your fingertips.
Pick up Your Copy of 'Landscape Photography for Beginner's' now!
I’m excited to share that my new book is now available on Amazon! Written for beginners and keen improvers alike, it’s a hands-on guide to building skills and confidence in the outdoors—perfect for anyone starting out or looking for a clear, friendly resource to move their photography forward.
Inside, you’ll find practical advice and plenty of inspiration, with each chapter dedicated to one of the ten pillars of great landscape photography—a core framework I often mention in my blogs, now explained in full detail with real-world examples.
You can find the paperback here, and it is also available on Kindle.
About Gary Holpin Photography
As a professional photographer based in Devon, my journey began along the stunning South West Coast Path. Disappointed with my initial attempts to capture its beauty, I embarked on a second 630-mile journey, this time dedicated to mastering photography. Today, I'm a nationally acclaimed photographer with award-winning landscape photos.
I specialize in providing top-notch property photography, business photography, and drone photography services to businesses across the South West. Additionally, I offer comprehensive photography training courses tailored for both businesses and individuals. Whether you're looking to enhance your corporate image or improve your personal photography skills, my training programs are designed to help you capture stunning images.
As an award-winning and widely published photographer, I frequently share my passion for photography and Devon through engaging talks at local camera clubs and community groups. My expertise spans the entire South West region, ensuring that clients from Devon, Dorset & Somerset benefit from high-quality photography services and training.
