Best phones for mobile photography in 2025

Ilaya Teejay

07 Mar 2025 • 14 min read

When I had the idea for this article, I was very sure I was going to have a lot of iPhones on my list. Well, I am thrilled to announce that in fact I do not have a lot of iPhones on my list.

After analyzing 50 different mobile photographers and speaking to 15 of them, I was surprised–only two rely on iPhones to create their stunning and camera-rivaling shots.

So, if you’re a mobile photographer, welcome aboard! We’re about to go through some of the best phones you can use on this journey.

“What I love most about phone photography is the sheer convenience and spontaneity it allows. Having a powerful camera in your pocket means you can capture moments instantly, without the bulk of a traditional camera setup.” – Kays Wacho

Ready to see what we have? Let’s get in.

This list was compiled based on usage/ recommendation by some of the mobile photographers we spoke to while writing this article.

Key takeaways

📌Mobile photography is more powerful than ever. With advanced camera systems, AI enhancements, and editing apps, your phones can take really good photos that can rival camera photos.

📌Specs matter, but skill matters more . A great phone helps, but understanding lighting, composition, and editing techniques will take your photos to the next level.

📌Storage is important. High-resolution photos and videos take up space quickly. Choose a phone with at least 256GB of storage or with expandable memory options.

📌The camera isn’t everything. A good photography phone also needs a strong processor, a quality display, and long battery life to handle shooting and editing smoothly.

Practice makes perfect. No matter what phone you use, shoot regularly, experiment with settings, and engage with the mobile photography community to improve your skills.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

We all know Samsung doesn't play when it comes to making phones, and the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a beast when it comes to mobile photography.

Its main camera is a 200MP style that captures an insane level of detail. This means you can crop into an image without losing focus or clarity.

The phone also uses pixel binning, a smart trick that merges smaller pixels into one to absorb more light, so your night shots come out brighter, sharper, and less grainy.

Zoom is another area where the S25 Ultra can boldly say, “These other phones you like is my sons.”

It has 5x and 10x optical zoom using a periscope lens, which lets you take clear, high-quality close-ups without distortion. And if you want to push it further, Samsung’s AI-powered 100x Space Zoom gives you extreme reach.

Plus, Samsung’s AI image processing automatically fine-tunes sharpness and color, so your photos look professionally edited straight out of the camera.

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is currently hard to beat, and if you can afford it, it should be the first phone on your list.

Vivo X200 Pro

The Vivo X200 Pro may not be the first name that comes to mind for mobile photography, but don’t sleep on it.

This phone is built for stunning night shots and ultra-realistic colors.

At its core is a 50MP main sensor, but what makes it special is its massive 1-inch sensor size (the same size found in some professional cameras). A larger sensor means more light intake, which leads to brighter, sharper, and more detailed images.

Vivo has a partnership with ZEISS. This phone comes with ZEISS optics and coatings, which reduce glare and improve contrast.

If you've ever struggled with overexposed highlights or weird reflections in your photos, this will keep everything looking natural.

It has a periscope zoom lens (5x optical zoom) to ensure that even distant subjects remain clear and detailed.

This phone is a dream for photographers who love low-light photography, realistic colors, and artistic portraits. If this flagship is out of your budget, the Vivo X series does a great job, so you might want to check out others.

Xiaomi 15 Ultra

Even before the phone launched, I saw many tweets saying that the Xiaomi 15 Ultra would change mobile photography. And I was like, “This is a marketing gimmick.” Unfortunately for me, and fortunately for Xiaomi, it is not.

This phone is built for serious mobile photographers who want versatility. It has a 50MP quad-camera setup and a variable aperture on the main sensor.

Unlike most smartphones with a fixed aperture, this one adjusts dynamically between f/1.6 and f/4.0, allowing for brighter shots in low light and sharper details in daylight (just like a professional camera).

One of the biggest reasons photographers love this phone is its Leica partnership. The Leica-tuned color science provides rich contrast, deep blacks, and a film-like aesthetic, making every shot look cinematic straight out of the camera.

It also includes Leica-style filters, allowing you to capture photos with the signature Leica look effortlessly.

Now, here’s where things get even more exciting. It has a Camera Kit!.

This kit turns the Xiaomi 15 Ultra into a professional photography tool, adding a physical shutter button, a zoom control dial, and an extra battery pack for extended shooting sessions.

Google Pixel 9 Pro

The Google Pixel 9 Pro proves that hardware isn’t everything.

Yes, I know that the phone itself is hardware. But if you’ve heard of how good Google’s next-level AI-powered image processing is, you will agree with me.

Its camera is really good as its a 50MP main but the way the phone processes photos is on a god-like level.

Every shot is fine-tuned using Google's advanced computational photography techniques, meaning you get clear details, balanced exposure, and natural colors without needing to edit afterward.

The 5x periscope zoom lens brings distant subjects closer while maintaining high-quality details. And thanks to Google's Super Res Zoom, you can push beyond 5x and still get a surprisingly sharp image without the pixelation that digital zoom causes.

Google says it gives you group photos that everyone loves. With the Best Take feature, you never get a bad shot. If someone blinks in a group photo, the AI replaces it with a frame where their eyes are open.

Then, there’s Magic Editor, a tool that lets you move subjects, remove distractions, and enhance colors with just a few taps.

If you'd rather not do much editing, the Google Pixel 9 Pro is for you. It’s a camera that thinks for you, making every shot look professionally edited without you lifting a finger.

iPhone 16 Pro

Apple’s iPhone 16 Pro is it’s best camera yet as it continue to push the boundaries of what the iPhone can do for mobile photography.

Someone at work called it a machine, and I agree, thanks to its improved 48MP main sensor, upgraded ultra-wide lens, and a 5x tetraprism periscope zoom.

Aside from its camera, Apple’s Deep Fusion and Photonic Engine work behind the scenes to make every shot look perfect.

One of the biggest improvements is the Smart HDR, which gives you true-to-life colors, incredible contrast, and balanced exposure in every lighting condition.

So wherever you are shooting, the iPhone automatically adjusts to deliver a well-lit, naturally colored image without any extra effort.

The 5x telephoto zoom is a good one for those who love capturing portraits or distant subjects. Unlike regular digital zoom, this one maintains details, accurate colors, and minimal noise.

And, of course, there’s Apple’s legendary ecosystem advantage. AirDrop, iCloud syncing, and seamless integration with MacBooks and iPads make this phone the best choice for creators who want a smooth workflow from shooting to editing

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If the price points for these phones are expensive, you can also check to see if you can see the refurbished or second-hand versions of these phones.

Realme Note 60

Not everyone wants to spend a fortune on a camera phone, and that’s where phones like the Realme Note 60 come in.

It’s an affordable phone with impressive photography features, making it a great option for beginner mobile photographers or content creators on a budget.

The 32MP AI-enhanced main camera is the star of the show. While it doesn’t have the same high-end image processing as flagship phones, it still captures sharp, well-detailed shots in good lighting.

One of its standout features is Night Mode, which boosts brightness in low-light shots without adding too much noise.

While it may not match the level of flagship night modes, it still delivers clear and usable images in dim conditions, which is rare in this price range.

Tecno Camon 30 Pro

Tecno has been making waves in mobile photography, and the Camon 30 Pro is proof of that.

Designed with photographers in mind, this phone has a 100MP ultra-clear main camera, making it one of the highest-resolution sensors in its price range.

The pixel-binning technology ensures that even in low light, the camera captures bright, sharp, and noise-free images.

Unlike many budget phones, the Camon 30 Pro’s sensor is large enough to absorb more light, resulting in better low-light performance and richer details.

For video creators, the Camon 30 Pro includes Ultra Steady Mode, which reduces shaky footage, making it ideal for vlogging or handheld shooting. The 4K recording support at this price point is also a welcome addition.

OPPO Find X8 Pro

OPPO has always pushed the boundaries of smartphone cameras, and the Find X8 Pro is another opportunity at showing off.

It has a 50MP triple-camera setup. In this set-up, there is a large 1-inch main sensor, a periscope zoom lens, and an ultra-wide lens.

The larger sensor means the camera absorbs more light, leading to brighter, sharper images even in low-light conditions.

The periscope zoom lets you capture distant subjects without sacrificing quality. It also has AI-powered image processing, which helps reduce noise and ensures every shot looks professionally edited straight out of the camera.

If you want a photography-first smartphone that delivers good image quality and advanced AI-powered enhancements, the OPPO Find X8 Pro is one of the best options available.

Redmi Note 12 Pro

The Redmi Note 12 Pro is a fantastic mid-range phone that has surprisingly powerful camera features for its price. With a 50MP Sony IMX766 sensor, this phone can compete with some flagship devices on image quality, low-light performance, and color accuracy.

The large sensor size and optical image stabilization (OIS) help capture sharp, bright photos even in tricky lighting.

One of its standout features is Redmi’s improved Night Mode, which enhances details in low-light shots without making them look overly processed.

The ultra-wide camera lets you capture expansive landscapes, while the macro lens is great for close-up shots of textures, food, or small objects.

If you want a budget-friendly phone that still delivers impressive photography, the Redmi Note 12 Pro is a great pick.

Redmi Note 9S

Though it’s a few years old, the Redmi Note 9S is still a solid choice for those looking for a budget-friendly phone with decent camera performance.

Its 48MP quad-camera system includes a main sensor, ultra-wide lens, macro lens, and depth sensor, offering various shooting options for different scenarios.

The 48MP main camera captures well-detailed shots in good lighting, and while low-light performance isn’t its strongest suit, the built-in Night Mode helps brighten up darker scenes.

One thing to note is that the Redmi Note 9S lacks optical image stabilization (OIS), so you might need a steady hand when taking photos in low light. However, for casual photography, it does a great job, considering its price point.

Overall, if you’re on a tight budget and want a phone that still delivers decent mobile photography capabilities, the Redmi Note 9S is a reliable choice.

How to choose the right phone for mobile photography

Looking at all the phones we’ve covered, you’ve probably noticed a pattern. Most of them have similar features: large sensors, multiple lenses, AI enhancements, and optical image stabilization.

Not all phones are on the same level. Here are some things you need to note when picking your next phone.

Sensor size over megapixels

A 50MP camera with a large sensor will take better photos than a 108MP camera with a small sensor. Why? A larger sensor captures more light, resulting in brighter, sharper, and more detailed images, especially in low light.

“Before getting a phone, well, I'd recommend knowing what chipset you're dealing with first. A better chipset equals a faster phone and faster processing speeds. The cameras, megapixels, what the camera can do, check reviews online beforehand. Battery size, that matters a lot too, screen type, amoled or oled and what not.” –Oluwaferanmi Snap_Vesus

Optical image stabilization (OIS)

Ever wondered why some phones take blurry shots in low light while others don’t? That’s where OIS comes in. It helps stabilize your shots, reducing blur caused by shaky hands or long exposure times.

AI and computational photography

Modern smartphones use AI to improve colors, improve HDR, and make night shots look better. This is why Google Pixel phones consistently produce stunning photos despite not having the biggest sensors.

“Smartphones also keep pushing boundaries with computational photography features like multi-frame processing, AI enhancements, and advanced HDR, making it easier to get stunning shots with minimal effort” – Kays Wacho

Periscope zoom vs. digital zoom

If you love capturing subjects from a distance, a periscope zoom is a must-have. Unlike digital zoom (which just crops the image), periscope lenses use optical zoom for lossless detail.

RAW and manual controls

Casual photographers can rely on auto mode, but if you want more control, look for phones that support RAW photography and pro modes. RAW files keep all the image data, allowing for better editing without losing quality.

Storage space

Storage is a big deal for mobile photography. High-resolution images, RAW files, and 4K videos eat up space fast. If your phone doesn’t have expandable storage, you’ll be forced to delete old files or rely on cloud storage, which isn’t always convenient.

“When choosing a phone for photography, it’s not just about the camera. Storage capacity is crucial because photos, especially high-resolution ones, consume a lot of space. Before you know it, your internal storage can fill up, and with most phones now lacking expandable storage, this becomes a significant concern. Additionally, processing power is essential. Many mobile editing apps are integrating AI features, which demand substantial system resources. A phone with strong performance ensures smooth editing and multitasking.” –John Mokan

FAQs

Do I need the most expensive phone to take great photos?

No. While flagship phones have better cameras, skill matters more than specs. A well-composed shot on a mid-range phone can look better than a random snap from a top-tier device.

What phone features matter most for photography?

Look for a good sensor size, multiple camera lenses (wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto), strong image processing, and night mode. A fast processor and enough storage also help with editing.

“Features, there's a lot, but I'd majorly be looking at the processor, resolution, and sensor size. The bigger the sensor, the better. Periscope lens, a telephoto lens that helps with zooming in.” –Oluwaferanmi Snap_Vesus

Does megapixel count really matter?

Not as much as you might think. A 50MP camera with a great sensor will take better photos than a 200MP camera with a weak sensor. What matters more is sensor size, image processing, and lens quality.

How much storage do I need for mobile photography?

If you shoot a lot of photos and videos, aim for at least 256GB. If your phone supports expandable storage (microSD), that’s a great bonus!

Is Android or iPhone better for photography?

It depends on what you need. iPhones are simple and have great color accuracy, while Android phones (especially flagships) offer more camera features, manual controls, and flexibility in editing.

“While the phone itself isn’t the sole determinant of great photography, skill and creativity play a huge role. I do have a preference for Android devices. They offer greater versatility and advanced camera features compared to iPhones, which tend to stick to the basics. For instance, my OPPO Reno13 has an underwater camera mode, something you won’t typically find on iPhones. Another advantage of Android is the accessibility of editing apps. Many apps on iOS require payments, and in this part of the world, people often avoid paid apps. Android, therefore, is a more practical and flexible choice” –John Mokan

What’s the best way to improve my mobile photography?

Practice. Experiment with lighting, framing, and angles. Learn editing basics. Follow photographers you admire and try to recreate their styles. The more you shoot, the better you get.

“Practice consistently, study the work of other mobile photographers, and engage with the community.” – John Mokan

Do editing apps make a big difference?

Yes. Apps like Lightroom, Snapseed, and VSCO can turn a good photo into a great one. Editing helps adjust lighting, colors, and sharpness to bring out the best in your shots.

"Smartphones also keep pushing boundaries with computational photography features like multi-frame processing, AI enhancements, and advanced HDR, making it easier to get stunning shots with minimal effort. Plus, editing on the go with apps like Lightroom lets you fine-tune images right after shooting, making the whole process seamless” –Kays Wacho

Do I need extra accessories for mobile photography?

Not necessarily, but a tripod can help with stability, external lenses can give you more creative options, and a small LED light can improve low-light shots.

Final thoughts

After going through all these phones, I’d love to say a good camera alone doesn’t make a great photographer.

I’ve seen pictures that people took with my exact phone, and honestly, I had to do a double take. Is this really the same phone I’m using? Because my pictures don’t look anywhere close.😭

At the end of the day, the best phone for mobile photography is the one that works for you.

If you shoot a lot at night, go for a phone with a large sensor and OIS. Love zoom shots? A periscope lens is a must. More of a hands-on editor? RAW support and pro mode will be your best friend.

But still, no matter which phone you get, skill matters more than specs. The best photographers make magic with any device so instead of stressing over megapixels, focus on lighting, angles, and a little bit of editing magic.

Now, go out there and start snapping. And if you ever feel like your phone isn’t doing its job, just remember someone out there is using the same phone to take photos that could be in a museum. 😅