The post Is it still photography if you’re only using your phone? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Sime.
Yes.
That’s as simple as the answer need be, but that’s not the point of this article.
Another Godox press release (Those guys are busy!) and again, we’ve not had a chance to play with one of these so you’ll need to do your own research, but Godox have just announced the Smartphone Xenon Flash A2, and their tagline is “Your phone, now a pro camera” which isn’t exactly factual, but also, the definition of “pro camera” is very loose.
The thing to keep in mind with ANY small light source is that its going to be harsh – there’s stuff you can do about it, though. You can diffuse it, bounce it (though a small light like the A2 might not give quite enough output to do much there) but even things like bouncing it off a close wall or even a sheet of paper in a pinch – use what you have, experiment.
I love the idea of small portable lights, this one is certainly an interesting addition to your phone photography – maybe worth giving a try, it’s certainly a good starter to your photography lighting journey.
Here’s the Godox Press Release (With a little bit of my own ramble)
Smartphone Photography, Now With More Zap
Phone cameras keep getting better, but low light, backlighting and mixed lighting can still make them sweat. Enter the Godox A2: proper pro-style lighting for your phone, with more control over your light and a lot more room to play.
Its short, punchy burst of xenon light freezes motion in its tracks, which is great for action shots and stylized looks.
Xenon Flash: Bring Your Subject to Life
Go bold with direct flash, or add a subtle lift to a backlit portrait. With a guide number of roughly 15 (ISO 100, metres), the A2 has plenty of oomph for close-range shots. When flash is your main light, that quick burst also helps freeze movement. *For best results, keep the A2 within 2 m of your subject. Want more power or wider coverage? Pair Godox’s upcoming smartphone wireless flash trigger (sold separately) with Godox speedlights or outdoor flashes.
TTL and Manual Modes: Stay Spontaneous, Get Precise
Fast and flawless when the moment’s fleeting, or hands-on when you want to flex your creative muscles. TTL and Manual modes have you covered both ways.
High-Speed Sync: Find Your Balance
Why banish that bright background when it can star in the story? With high-speed sync up to 1/8000s, the A2 lets you control ambient exposure while lighting your subject. Balance a face against a sunlit scene, or go for a faster shutter speed to keep the action crisp.
Bi-Color LED: True Color for Everyday Stories
Truer colors and flattering skin tones make portrait videos look natural and beautifully textured. Low light or indoors, the results feel authentic and ready to share. Your content doesn’t just look good, it feels right, and it’s always social-media ready.
Godox Camera App: Your Look, at Your Fingertips
Find your look right on your screen. Built on Godox’s TTL know-how, the Godox Camera app keeps exposure simple in Auto (A) mode, with Natural, Even and Contrast flash effects to try out. Feeling fussy? Switch to Manual (M) mode and tweak shutter speed and flash output yourself. Bluetooth with NFC-assisted setup lets you adjust flash and LED settings wirelessly, on or off camera.
Dual-Side Magnetic Mounting: Snap On, Explore New Angles
The A2’s dual magnetic design isn’t just for the back of your phone. Snap it to any metal surface or pop it on a stand and you’re ready to roll. On the front, the magnetic ring lets you attach accessories to shape the light exactly how you like. Simple, flexible and always creative.
Magnetic Accessories: Change the Light, Set the Mood
Go moodier and more dramatic with optional extras like a honeycomb grid, barndoors or a snoot to aim your light and tame the spill. Add a touch of warmth with a full CTO magnetic filter. *For best results, use the A2 off-camera with light-shaping accessories.
Compact. Magnetic. More Ways to Light.
Pro flash power in a palm-sized body. Pocketable, portable and happy to go anywhere you do.
Four Colors, A Style of Your Own
The A2 brings pro lighting to your phone in four distinctive colors. Pick a finish that suits your everyday style, and make your kit as personal as the photos you take.
The post Is it still photography if you’re only using your phone? appeared first on Digital Photography School. It was authored by Sime.