The Park Next Door - There's A Camera In My Pocket

There's A camera In My Pocket

When out exploring, and documenting local nature spots for TheParkNextDoor, I'm usually wandering with at least one camera set-up, maybe a second lens, and sometimes even a separate bridge (zoom) camera for trying to capture wildlife from a distance.

I tend to use vintage lenses, as they are an inexpensive way to experiment with different focal lengths and looks. I enjoy using them. And, I've found lenses for as little as $5 via eBay. Beautiful bargains!

But one device that I'm using more and more these days is my smartphone camera. The cameras have come a long way in recent years. And even the most basic ones offer creative benefits.

First of all, I always have it with me. They are easy to use. They do a good bit of the work for you, and you can capture unique perspectives easily. With one artificial knee, and a second "iffy" one, I can't get down on the ground to capture different camera angles, so a smartphone allows me to do that from an upright position.

And then there is the instant gratification of being able to post it to social media, or send it off to someone else easily. It's hard to argue with that.

A view from Ledge County Park, taken with an LG smartphone this fall.

I took several stormy photos at Cave Point County Park with my Google Pixel 3XL.

Most of us are familiar with taking family photos and selfies with our phones. The quality of photos and videos they can produce are perfect for on-the-go content creators and family documentarians alike. You don't need to have the latest and greatest phones out there to get great photos, either. Just a little patience and thoughtful composition goes a long way.

One of the great things about smartphone cameras is that they often have a wider view. While I may be taking photos with a 5omm lens on my camera, the ability to capture a wider view of a scene with my phone, and not having to switch lenses is so helpful.

Without too much more effort, I can provide a variety of views of a park or nature preserve to share on the website. And while each device has its finer points, and limitations, I find they complement each other very well. At least for what I'm doing.

Occasionally, I'll be out and about and have the chance to make a quick stop to observe nature. Having my ever-present phone camera means I can take advantage of that unexpected opportunity. Some of my favorite photos have happened that way.

Recently, I had minor surgery on my arm, and I had to put away my camera gear for a few weeks. Thanks to my smartphone camera, I could still go out, enjoy the autumn color, and garner some great photos as well.

Even the best professional photographers out there use their smartphones as well. They apply their same artistic style and talents to get images, and capture experiences of great beauty, with their mobile devices. Their photographer's eye is always at work.

Walking around the lagoon at Greenfield Park on a rainy day, Pixel phone in tow.

If you enjoy nature, and aspire to take photos documenting your adventures, whether it's a walk through your local park, working in the garden, or a longer, more arduous trip or hiking journey, great photos are at your fingertips. Learn as much about the camera features on your phone as you can, get outside, and let your inner artist shine.