Future of mobile photography lies in camera presets, with Nothing spearheading the advancement
In the world of smartphone photography, the conversation has been centred around bigger sensors, better optics, and smarter computational photography. However, a new era is on the horizon, as the focus shifts towards camera presets or profiles as the defining feature of mobile photography.
This shift is evident in the recent collaboration between Nothing and photographer and director Jordan Hemingway, who developed the Stretch profile. This profile, designed to deliver a cinematic feel with rich shadows and stretched highlights, marks a significant step in the right direction for mobile photography.
The Stretch profile is not just a high-profile example, but a testament to the potential of camera presets. With the rollout of this feature on the Nothing Phone (3), more users will soon have access to a distinctive creative tool baked right into the camera. Support for the Phone (2) and Phone (3a) series will follow soon via OTA updates.
Nothing's collaboration with other photographers, such as Andreas Rieß and Lotta Nieminen, further emphasises this shift. These collaborations help bring what might have been a niche to the forefront, making unique creative tools accessible to a wider audience.
The ability to add LUTs directly into the camera app is another favorite aspect of the Nothing Phone (3), according to one author. This feature, which allows for the direct application of colour grading looks, further empowers photographers to create visually striking images straight out of the camera.
Fujifilm's Film Simulations have long provided a way for photographers to cultivate unique looks straight out of the camera. The thriving community around film recipes has shown the value of such tools, and it seems the mobile photography world is ready to embrace this approach.
Gareth Bevan, a London-based photographer and videographer, is one such advocate for this change. Gareth, who specialises in fashion, portrait, and lifestyle content creation, has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes. He believes we're on the cusp of a new era where camera presets or profiles are the defining feature of mobile photography.
As the conversation around camera phones evolves, the act of choosing a camera profile becomes part of the creative process itself, rather than hours of editing afterwards. With the rise of camera presets, mobile photography is set to become even more accessible and creative, allowing everyone to express their unique vision.
For those interested in exploring the best options for mobile photography, check out our guides on the best Android phones for photography or the best camera phones. Whether you're a seasoned photographer or just starting out, the future of mobile photography is an exciting one.
