The best phone camera lens explained

Most smartphones today come with a sophisticated triple or quad camera setup. The common configuration comprises a primary and ultra-wide-angle lens. Meanwhile, the remaining sensors depend on the OEM’s decision. In photography, the lens plays a critical role in determining the quality of your images. A phone’s camera is an important factor that influences the buying decision, especially in the age of platforms like Instagram. There are several specifics like megapixel count, sensor size, aperture, field of view, image stabilisation, etc. 

Understanding the phone camera’s setup that comprises of different types of lenses can enhance your photography experience. It helps you in utilising the right sensor for a particular image in a certain environment. Furthermore, being aware about smartphone cameras make it easier while purchasing a new device. 

Here’s a breakdown of the most common phone camera lenses and their uses in smartphone photography.

Primary lens

Also called as wide-angle lens, this is a main camera in every smartphone. It is dedicated to capturing everyday scenes like portraits, abstract subjects, and even landscapes at times. The primary or standard lens offers a balanced field of view with a natural-looking proportions similar to what the human eye sees.

Ultra-wide-angle lens

Compared to the standard lens, the ultra-wide-angle camera, as the name suggests, provides a wider field of view. It is highly suitable for capturing vast landscapes and architecture. This way, you can fit in much more of the scene without having to step back. A wide-angle lens is also perfect for a group photo of people in a single image. 

Telephoto lens

Now becoming mainstream, telephoto sensors enhance the smartphone’s zooming capability. It allows you to get closer to the subject without loss of quality. A telephoto sensor is great for shooting wildlife and sports. There are two types of telephoto sensors – optical and periscope. Both have similar functions, but the periscope telephoto lens is found on flagship phones and delivers superior zoom quality.

Macro lens

A macro lens on a phone camera is designed for extreme close-up images. It is ideal for capturing detail in small subjects, for example, flowers and textures. Most smartphones now integrate the ability to shoot macro images with software optimisation through the ultra-wide-angle camera.

Depth sensor / Time of Flight (ToF)

Depth sensors and ToF lenses are not used for capturing images directly. These are often found on premium flagship phones to measure the distance between the camera and the subject. They help in improving portrait photos and a natural background blur. ToF lenses are also useful in AR applications and low-light focusing.

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It’s important to consider what you love to photograph when choosing a smartphone based on its camera specifications. A combination of standard, ultra-wide-angle, and telephoto lenses is ideally great for a mobile photography experience.