Smartphones for professional landscape photos?

Professional photographers are increasingly using smartphones for landscape photography for several practical reasons, even though traditional cameras remain their primary tool. Here are some explanations:

1. Convenience and Accessibility : Smartphones are always at hand, making it easy to quickly capture an unexpected scene, especially when traveling or at times when taking out a larger camera would be impractical. This allows for spontaneous and often unplanned images, where a DSLR or mirrorless camera might be too cumbersome.

2. Improved image quality : Modern smartphones are equipped with image sensors and software processing that produce very decent quality photos, with accurate color rendering, good detail, and impressive dynamic range for such a small device. Some models, such as those from Apple, Google, or Samsung, offer image capture capabilities that rival more traditional cameras in certain situations.

3. Ease of editing and sharing : After taking a photo with a smartphone, retouching and editing can be done directly on the device thanks to powerful applications (like Lightroom mobile, Snapseed or others). In addition, instant sharing via social networks or the cloud is extremely easy, which is convenient for photographers who want to quickly publish or transfer images.

4. Geotagging and Maps : Many smartphones have built-in geotagging, allowing the photographer to record the exact location where each photo was taken. This can be useful for long-term projects, returning to a particular location, or sharing information about the location.

5. Specific technologies : Some smartphones are equipped with interesting features for landscapes, such as ultra-wide-angle lenses, sensors with a wide dynamic range (which allows better management of strong contrasts between sky and land), and computational photography systems (such as HDR mode) which improve shots in difficult lighting conditions.

6. Minimalism and lightness : When going on long hikes or trips, the weight and bulk of your gear are important considerations. A smartphone is lightweight and compact, making it easy to carry while still offering decent photo capabilities for certain types of landscapes.

7. Technological innovation : Smartphone brands are constantly investing in innovative technologies, such as 360-degree photography, night mode capture, and depth simulation (background blur), which help produce original and captivating images, even in low-light situations or with moving subjects.

In short, while professional cameras are unmatched in terms of pure image quality, smartphones offer a convenient, fast, and capable solution for certain types of landscape photography, especially in settings where speed, flexibility, and portability are essential.