Apple’s iPhones take some impressive pictures, and they get better every year.
Even though Apple has refused to go above the 8-megapixel threshold, the company’s smartphones—going back to the iPhone 4—take some of the cleanest, sharpest images in mobile. Not the very best, but close.
But even Apple’s phones can use a little extra oomph. Luckily, this is an area where third-party developers shine. Apple’s iOS App Store is home to some of the slickest camera software in mobile, so you probably already have your favorites; if not, we have some suggestions we think you should familiarize yourself with now.
Apple’s stock camera app is fast and handy for shooting quick images, and you do get plenty of editing options from your Camera Roll.
But it doesn’t have the most robust feature set when shooting images. Sure, you can turn on/off HDR and switch to modes like panorama, slow-mo, and video on the fly, but you don’t get much control over settings like shutter speed, ISO and more. These are the kind of features enthusiasts need.
There are all kinds of options to improve your camera experience, and most of them are super easy to use. Instagram’s Hyperlapse produces some incredible results, while Afterlight offers a ton of great editing options, filters and shooting modes.
It’s not easy picking just five camera apps, but we managed to whittle it down. Have any suggestions? Let us know in the comments down below. If you’re looking to expand your photography horizons, the apps listed in the video above are a good way to start.
- Manual ($1.99)
- Afterlight ($0.99)
- VSCO Cam (Free; in-app purchases)
- Hyperlapse (Free)
- Chromic (Free)
