Modern smartphones can produce photos comparable with point-and-shoot cameras, but achieving better results often requires more effort than simply using the default camera app. The article argues that phones prioritise clear, easily shareable images over artistic depth, which can leave photographs looking flat, overly processed or washed out.

Although camera sensors have become larger and more capable, default processing commonly brightens shadows, reduces highlights, sharpens images and suppresses noise. The author recommends third-party apps such as Dazzcam, Hujicam, Moment Pro Camera II and Halide; for the highest-quality results, they advise shooting in RAW or DNG format and editing the image afterwards.