10 March 2025, 06:21 PM
Smartphone photography has evolved dramatically over the past decade, with advancements in AI-powered image processing, multi-lens setups, and computational photography. However, a new trend is emerging that takes inspiration from the past—bringing back manual camera controls and attachable lenses to recreate the classic photography experience.
At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, Xiaomi and Leica unveiled the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Ultra smartphones, designed to give users the look and feel of a traditional point-and-shoot camera. These devices come with attachable lenses, dedicated shutter buttons, and physical controls for adjusting aperture, white balance, and shutter speed—features typically found on professional cameras rather than smartphones.
The resurgence of retro photography features in smartphones reflects a growing demand for creative control and tactile feedback. While modern smartphone cameras offer exceptional image quality through AI and computational enhancements, many photography enthusiasts feel disconnected from the shooting process. By reintroducing physical dials and manual settings, companies aim to bridge the gap between smartphone convenience and professional photography techniques.
Another exciting innovation is smartphone-compatible lens attachments. Brands like Moment, Zeiss, and Leica are developing external lenses that clip onto smartphones, allowing users to achieve wide-angle, telephoto, and macro shots with optical precision. These accessories give smartphone photographers greater flexibility and enhance their ability to capture high-quality images without relying solely on digital zoom.
Industry experts believe that this shift towards manual camera controls in smartphones could redefine mobile photography. As smartphone brands continue to push the boundaries of camera technology, the fusion of modern innovation with classic photography elements may appeal to both casual users and professional photographers.
At the Mobile World Congress (MWC) 2025, Xiaomi and Leica unveiled the Xiaomi 15 and 15 Ultra smartphones, designed to give users the look and feel of a traditional point-and-shoot camera. These devices come with attachable lenses, dedicated shutter buttons, and physical controls for adjusting aperture, white balance, and shutter speed—features typically found on professional cameras rather than smartphones.
The resurgence of retro photography features in smartphones reflects a growing demand for creative control and tactile feedback. While modern smartphone cameras offer exceptional image quality through AI and computational enhancements, many photography enthusiasts feel disconnected from the shooting process. By reintroducing physical dials and manual settings, companies aim to bridge the gap between smartphone convenience and professional photography techniques.
Another exciting innovation is smartphone-compatible lens attachments. Brands like Moment, Zeiss, and Leica are developing external lenses that clip onto smartphones, allowing users to achieve wide-angle, telephoto, and macro shots with optical precision. These accessories give smartphone photographers greater flexibility and enhance their ability to capture high-quality images without relying solely on digital zoom.
Industry experts believe that this shift towards manual camera controls in smartphones could redefine mobile photography. As smartphone brands continue to push the boundaries of camera technology, the fusion of modern innovation with classic photography elements may appeal to both casual users and professional photographers.