Am I ready for a professional camera?!
I recently purchased my first not-iPhone camera and have been slowly learning the ropes. There seem to be endless settings and it’s completely overwhelming, but I’m practicing, learning, and enjoying the process! I photographed our recording studio today in order to compare to my Recording Studio Refresh, and the results are pretty fun.
If you’re debating whether to upgrade from an iPhone to a professional camera (I debated for years!), here’s a little low-pressure game to help you decide if you might be ready.
Pop Quiz: Can you spot which photos were shot on an iPhone? (Answers at the end!)
Back Studio Entrance
Outdoor Chairs
Backyard View
Lounge Couch
Vibraphone
Hospitality Hutch
Upright Bass
Cuba Portrait
Organ
Bathroom
Drumset
Bass, congas, vibraphone, vintage posters, and some of my artwork from ABC Colorful Animals.
Studio View
Production Desk
Grammy
Here is the list of iPhone photos – did you spot them all?
Backyard View
Hospitality Hutch
Cuba Portrait
Bathroom
Production Desk
If you’re deciding whether you’re ready to upgrade from an iPhone to a professional camera, hopefully this pop quiz can lend some insight. If you don’t notice (or mind) the difference in photo quality, then perhaps now’s not the time to justify the expense. I spent almost a decade “making do” with iPhone photos and they’ve been fine for building client websites, blogging, pattern design, social media content, and holiday cards. I’ve been able to lightly learn about photography as I go, and without the pressure of trying to figure out a high-tech tool.
That said, now that I see these photos of our studio side-by-side, I am SO happy with my decision to move on to a mirrorless camera. I’m in love with the clarity and rich details. When editing iPhone photos, I always feel the need to brighten and overexpose in order to get a cohesive warmth. The Fuji photos on the other hand, have much more depth in the darker colors. I’m so excited to continue to grow and improve my photography skills! While I still use my iPhone for capturing my toddlers and day-to-day life when convenience is key, my Fuji is my new BFF for product photography, craft tutorials, interior design shots, and blogging.
And if you’re interested in what camera and lenses I’m using, here you are: Fuji X-S20, alternating between a 30mm f/2.8 Macro and 15–45mm Kit Lens.
Thank you for reading, and take care!
