4 Must-Have iPhone Photography Accessories for the Dedicated iPhoneographer

By Mike Richard Updated May 10, 2017

We’re fast-approaching a point with smartphone camera technology where travelers wanting to catch that perfect shot may no longer need to carry a separate DSLR camera. Clip-on Zeiss lenses, ultra-compact tripods, and Photoshop-grade mobile apps are replacing bulky, “old school” digital camera kits. Here are four of our favorite iPhone Photography accessories for budding (or near-pro) travel photographers.

ExoLens with Optics by Zeiss Wide-angle Lens – $200

iphone-with-lens-mount — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Snap-on iPhone lenses are nothing new. However, most suffer from at least one of two shortcomings: their flexible design (to allow for use on a wide range of iPhone types) provides a less-than-ideal fit, or the quality of the glass isn’t worth the hassle. The awkwardly named ExoLens with Optics by Zeiss Wide-angle Lens (18mm equivalent) solves both problems. First, the included precision-machined mounting brackets provide for an ultra-tight fit with whatever iPhone you happen to be packing. Second, and most important, the lenses make use of world-famous Zeiss optics meaning the picture quality is far superior to any other smartphone lens kit on the market. The downside? Great quality and fit doesn’t come cheap.

Recommended Videos

Snapseed – Free

Snapseed Introduction

Like all great software and apps, Google purchased Nik Software (creators of Snapseed) in 2012. It’s no surprise, as original iterations of the mobile app were approaching the power and flexibility of full-fledged desktop photo-editing software. The latest version offers many of the best features of Adobe Photoshop. Instagram-style filters allow for fast, stylized editing. But, additional nuanced features allow power users to individually adjust for things like exposure, ambiance, warmth, and saturation — on a per-picture level or via preset brushes to edit only small portions of a photo. Where the app really shines is with desktop-grade features like a healing brush, facial recognition (to, for example, highlight only a single face or pair of eyes in a given photo), and an automated stretch feature. The latter allows for smart resizing to, for example, add additional blue sky or to extend a fence line in a photo where neither previously existed.

Pakpod – $99

Image used with permission by copyright holder

For years, Gorillapod was the standard for photographers looking to take their cameras anywhere. While the company’s products are still solid as ever, Pakpod offers all the same features and then some. The uniquely designed mobile tripod was purpose-built for outdoor and adventure travelers who use their cameras in the most extreme situations. It’s lightweight, compact, and extremely portable. But, its biggest selling point is its stake system which allows it to be firmly secured in sand, turf, or snow. Once in place, all three legs are lockable with just one twist. What’s more: dedicated tie-down points guarantee the tripod will never budge.

Roxant Pro Stabilizer – $65

The Roxant Pro Video Camera Stabilizer (Steady Cam)

While smartphone software and hardware are rapidly catching up to DSLR camera technology, the one thing that’s been difficult to overcome is their awkward form factor. Smartphones were never intended to be used or held like a traditional camera. Enter Roxant’s Video Camera Stabilizer. The device features a universal mount that accepts not only smartphones but GoPros and DSLRs up to 2.1 pounds. The design offers a solid hand grip, three individual counterweights for better balance, and a purpose-built, Hollywood-inspired stabilizing design for shooting smooth, “indie film-style” footage without the usual smartphone shakiness.

Contributor

Mike Richard has traveled the world since 2008. He's kayaked in Antarctica, tracked endangered African wild dogs in South…

Outdoors

Your ultimate guide to delicious winter camping meals

Stay warm with these winter camping meal suggestions

Man winter camping with a green tent

Many discard the idea of winter camping because of its challenges, but despite the cold temperatures, this winter activity is actually pretty fun. As long as you're warm and well-fed, winter camping can be a great opportunity to connect with nature. In this guide, we'll give you the expertise you need to cover winter camping meals so that you and your crew stay full during your adventure.
General tips for preparing winter camping meals

Keep it simple
Winter conditions can make even the most basic tasks more challenging, so it’s essential to stick to simple, straightforward meals. Complex recipes that require a lot of chopping, have multiple steps, or need delicate cooking techniques can be difficult to manage when you’re cold and tired. Instead, focus on one-pot meals or recipes that can be pre-prepped at home.

Travel

From art to outdoor adventures: The best of Santa Fe

Explore 'The City Different'

Sky view of Santa Fe

Perched high in the desert of the American Southwest, Santa Fe, New Mexico, is a city as rich in history as it is in charm. Founded back in 1610, it’s the oldest state capital in the U.S., and you can feel that deep blend of cultures -- Native American, Spanish, and Anglo -- everywhere you go. Known as "The City Different," Santa Fe stands out with its unique adobe architecture, bustling art scene, and laid-back vibe.

Whether you’re into art, food, or history or are just looking for a cool place to explore, Santa Fe has something for everyone. Think world-class museums, mouthwatering New Mexican food, and quirky shops perfect for one-of-a-kind treasures. We’ll take you through some of the best things to do in Santa Fe, from savoring the local cuisine to diving into its cultural gems and hitting up the best shopping spots.
Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Travel

What happens if you miss a connecting flight? These travel tips will help you save your trip

Follow these tips if you miss your connecting flight

Woman at airport

Making a connection between flights is often a seamless experience; your plane lands on time, you grab your carry-on, and you make your way over to the gate to board your connecting flight to your destination. Sometimes, you even have time to grab a quick meal at the airport. Other times, you may find yourself running full speed through the airport to make it to your plane. Missing connecting flights is an unfortunate aspect of frequent air travel. But what happens if you miss your connection? Navigating the aftermath of a missed connecting flight can be intimidating and challenging, but with the right travel tips, you can make it to your final destination with minimal stress.
Missing a connecting flight: The common causes

Several things can cause a traveler to miss their connecting flight. These factors range from airline-related issues to personal oversights. Generally, an airline will not sell you a ticket if they don’t believe you can make your connecting flight, but flight delays of even a few minutes can quickly cascade into missed connections.