Bob Crum

I didn't foresee last weeks mild-mannered column disturbing so many readers. Mention of recently announced cameras seemed innocuous. HA! I was besieged with a barrage of emails haranguing me on the folly of my topics. Some writers were obstinately defiant. Given forethought, I would have discussed how to boost your euphoric level of dopamine by re-reading a camera's operating manual while snacking on baked brussels sprouts. But I digress.

A typical email came from reader Jon (not his real name) who wrote: “I had a peaceful life until I read your column discussing the new Canon RP camera. “Excitedly, I told my wife that I'm going to buy one. A skirmish ensued. The doctor said I could remove the head bandage next week and I'm still sleeping in the garage, with the cat.”

Men: Never talk about buying a new camera without renewing your lady's spa membership - for a year! Ladies: the quickest way to delight your significant other is to buy him a spanking new camera - and two lenses. Oh, and don't forget a camera bag that matches your purse. Just a thought.

And there's this admonishment from Larry K. (again not his real name): “Why do you continue promoting a dead methodology? I take great photos with my (brand name deleted to protect the manufacturer) smartphone. You need to get up to date, sir!” The 'sir' part endeared me to Larry K. Sir, I replied, thanks for writing. However, have you ever photographed the Blue Angels with your cellphone? How'd that work out? How about a rodeo?

Given that selfie-afflicted phonetographers seem to outnumber photographers 7,392,802 to 1, I receive a continuous stream of emails touting phenomenal cellphone photos. Yes, the cameras in cellphones are getting better, BUT, (listen carefully) who would dare say that a cellphone can always match the capabilities of a dedicated camera?

I don't suggest that everyone tote a camera along with their cellphone. Phonetography has merit! I shoot cellphone snapshots when circumstances allow, and I need to email or text a snapshot quickly. But in many situations, a dedicated camera undeniably smokes a cellphone! Before emailing me objecting vehemently, let's briefly explore a few cellphone limitations.

The cellphone's thin form factor prohibits an optical zoom lens. Digital zoom (cropping) degrades photo quality. Has anyone seen a 'professional phonetographer' at a pro sports event? How about photographing a fast-flying osprey skimming a lake on a bright sunny day with a cellphone? Or grandson Lenny kicking a soccer goal! Good luck!

Also, while cameras in current top-end cellphones are continually improving, they still struggle in low-light situations because of their ultra-small sensors. The larger sensors of dedicated camera's increase light gathering abilities.

Another cellphone disadvantage is the fixed aperture that prevents controlling depth-of-field (DOF) when desired. Some cellphones are trying to emulate DOF with firmware, but it's still woefully deficient.

Essentially, shutter speed, aperture and ISO control exposure. A dedicated camera offers extensive exposure control, and creative DOF options, whereas cellphones have minimal options.

Last, there's therapeutic value in 'creating' a photo with a dedicated camera. Tapping an icon on a cellphone to take a snapshot is hardly creative. Just a thought. Bottom line: The best camera is the one you have with you, as the cliché goes, even if it's a cellphone. Peace!

The photo of the week is the last of the hawk series. Anticipating a fast flight, I quickly increased the shutter speed to 1/800th of a second for stability during panning and still illustrate some wingtip blur to indicate motion. Creativity in action.

Send comments, suggestions and/or questions to: focusonphotography@earthlink.net