If you got to this page via a search, you might want to check out
the Photo Tips & Suggestions for Newbies Page
as this is where I explain a few things.
Click the Photo Tips button above.
The links on this page will take you to a secure page to order from.
Links to hardware will be updated as gear evolves and new products becomes available. This page was updated Nov. 12th, 2011. Though I would have liked to post prices, they change too often for me to keep up with.
My ‘recommendations’ were made after many, many hours of researching other sites and studying lots of user testimonials.
It should go without saying, I did not get to test everything I feature here. These are my personal picks and may not suit your own needs. I strive for a balance between features, function, reliability, cost and style. I always try to get the most ‘bang for the buck’.
In the end, you must decide what is right for you. Right?
Apps for iPhone Paparazzi ($2 or less)-
A better image capture App- Camera Plus Pro App Store Link
This image acquisition App is way better than the one that Apple provides. Anti-shake, Geo Tags and Grid Lines for composition are the key ones. There are additional functions for video capture including some special filters and my favorite, Time-Lapse Recording.
Create multi-image panoramic images- Auto Stitch App Store Link
This little App does require you to capture the images in advance, but this means you can capture the best image possible and correct it some, before creation the Pano. Though there is an 18MP limit, it will automatically stitch up to 20 images at one time. Not bad. Remember to set a common exposure for the set so there are no discrepencies later.
High dynamic range (HDR) tool- True HDR App Store Link
This app takes two shots in short order and then combines them to produce an image with a longer tone range than a single shot could do. This is true HDR, not faked from a single shot. It works best from a tripod or braced in a doorway or something, but Auto Capture will get you by in a pinch.
Advanced image editing tool- Iris Photo Suite App Store Link
Now that you have that shot, here is a way to improve it. Adjustments include levels, color temp (color bias), shadow/highlight control (something I use all the time), sharpening and noise reduction. It also includes a collection of 72 filters. Woo Hoo! Last, but not least, the App features multiple levels of ‘Undo’. A really big deal when something goes badly wrong.
Add textural effects to images- Pic Grunger App Store Link
Wanna add a dirty, messed up look to your shot? This App features an ‘FX’ or effects photo wizard to ‘trash’ your image. There is also a collection of textures that can be applied. Fun!
Watermark your images before posting- Impression App Store Link
I’m dead set against putting any images on the Net without some form of watermark. This nifty app gives you a way to add your name and any other copy you want, over the top of your image. Font, size, color of type, transparency and position are all adjustable. Perfect.
Lenses and Attachments-
Gary Fong Flip-Cage with Tripod Adapter for iPhone 4/4S
This goodie creates a ‘rollbar like cage’ to protect your iPhone from rough handling in the field. Serves as a tabletop stand as well. It features a standard 1/4″ 20 thread mount for tripod applications.
Gary¤Fong Flip-Cage with Tripod Adapter for iPhone 4/4S
Aquapac Stormproof Case for an iPod/iPhone
A water-tight pouch to protect your iPhone, iPod Touch or Android phone when down by the beach or caught out in the rain. It’s also a good idea to toss a little silica/desiccant pouch in with the device, to suck up any condensation that might occur.
Aquapac Stormproof Case for an iPod (Orange)
EyeSee360 GoPano Micro
This is cool… Shoot a full, 360 degree panoramic in one shot. No stitching required! And you can do it right from your iPhone. It will even allow you to shoot 360 degree Panoramic Movies. How cool is that?
Long Focal 8x Zoom Optical Telephoto Extended 30x70mm Lens
This basically turns your iPhone into a sniper scope with record capability. The device allows for manually fine tuning the focus. It will focus as close as 10 feet and includes mini-tripod. Very compact set. For 3G and 3Gs only.
Orion SteadyPix Telescope Photo Adapter for iPhone (any)
If you have a telescope, this adapter will allow you to mount your iPhone to it. It is adjustable on three axis so it can be used with almost any iPhone. Works with 1.25″ eyepieces. Even works in the daytime too!
Orion SteadyPix Telescope Photo Adapter for iPhone
Lensse iHandle iPhone 3G 4G PDA holder Steady Cam
An economical solution for reducing the jitter and shake from hand-held video. Adjustable to accommodate most iPhones. Machined from Aluminum.
Lensse iHandle iPhone 3G 4G PDA holder Steady Cam
Steadicam Smoothee for iPhone 4
This is the ‘real’McCoy’.. Made by SteadyCam. They are the leaders in stabilized, handheld imaging. I own a SteadyCam Jr. and this qualifies as the ‘Next-Gen’ version, tailored to use with an iPhone. Wanna do Hollywood level work? Then you’ll need this to shoot it.
Steadicam Smoothee for iPhone 4
The Glif: iPhone 4 / 4S Tripod Mount & Stand
A simple, but effective way to mount your iPhone to a tripod. Tip: mount the bracket to the tripod first, then snap your iPhone into it. When done, pop the iPhone back out before moving your tripod. A great way to shoot a series of images for stitching into a panorama or using the the 2 shot HDR app.
The Glif: iPhone 4 / 4S Tripod Mount & Stand
Notes Regarding Suggestions:
Most of my suggestion links will take you to B & H Photo Video of NYC.
I’ve been ordering from B&H since the 1980’s. They are very trustworthy and work to resolve any issues. In addition to UPS and FedEx, they will ship USPS where most will not. On top of that, their prices are very competitive. You might find an item a little cheaper elsewhere, but is it worth the risk? A few links will take you to Amazon for things B&H does not sell like the VadoHD.
Commissions paid are very small and do not add a single dime to your order. The price would be the same regardless of how you got there. Though this site is a ‘labor of love’ it is very time consuming. I would spend more time on it, if I could make a few bucks in the process.
Please think of me, the next time you consider buying a camera.
Thanx, Roberto.