Add-on Lenses and Filters to Enhance Smartphone Photography

Thanks to rapid advancements in technology, smartphones today are capable of taking impressive photographs. However, there are still limitations on what a phone can do. The right cell phone accessories can change that. Whether you're an amateur or professional photographer, add-on lenses can take your photos to the next level.

Different Types of Phone Lenses

There are three main photo lens types for smartphones: telephoto, macro, and fisheye.

Telephoto

Telephoto lenses, or zoom lenses, provide optical zoom that can reach 20x. Zoom lenses make it easy to photograph distant objects and give your pictures better resolution.

Macro

Take close-up shots with macro lenses. This is useful for photographing small objects or capturing the details of larger ones, such as jewelry or fabric texture.

Fisheye

Fisheye lenses allow you to capture scenes in a unique, wide angle.

If you're looking for something even more advanced, consider smartphone add-on cameras. Most of these allow for 360° photos and videos.

What Are the Benefits of Filters?

Although post processing of photos is usually necessary, filters can make things easier. With filters, you can customize your desired light and contrast level, saving you editing time later. Polarized filters, for example, can help reduce glare or haloing, and allow you to photograph through glass and water. Filters also give your photos a more professional look. 

iPhone Lenses vs. Universal Lenses

Certain manufacturers specialize in iPhone lenses, while others make universal kits. The benefit of universal add-on lenses is their clip-on design, which is functional and easy to use. Please note, some clip-on lenses may partially block the display or interfere with the flash. Brand-specific lenses often require a secondary case or cover for your phone, to which the lenses attach.

Other Useful Accessories

You can purchase phone lenses and filters individually or in a set, and some come with filters as well. If you're a versatile shooter, a complete kit is ideal. In addition to being compact and easy to carry, smartphone attachment cases and kits ensure that all accessories are compatible. Lenses and filters aren't limited to phones. If you find it easier to take photos with a larger screen, there are tablet attachment cases and kits as well. Keep in mind that zoom lenses tend to be sensitive to movement, so for lenses with high optical zoom, look into mobile grips and support accessories, such as tripods or gimbals.

If you like to take pictures with your smartphone, check out B&H Photo and Video's large selection of mobile lenses, filters, and other accessories and transform your phone into a mobile photo studio.