Why pay so much for a smartphone when its photo and video functions are not as good as those of a Mirrorless or DSLR? Fact: The smartphone camera will NOT be as good as a mirrorless or DSLR with a good lens. There is no 'if' or 'but' simply because physics will not make an ultra-small sensor as sensitive as a big ass sensor inside the camera body. Fact Two/Too: The AI inside the smartphone has largely (not totally) mitigated the issues associated with small sensor + lenses simply by condensing what used to be an arduous post-editing process into a workflow that can be applied in microseconds. All distortion correction and colour management/science are tweaked for the vast majority of users. Any more and it will be in the realm of discerning professionals. Is it perfect? No, and that is why mirrorless and DSLRs will still have a place in imaging. Fact Three: The best camera is the one always with you. It really depends on what is in your pocket, too. If I have an old Nokia shooting 720p HD photo and video, I would be better off shooting with a Nikon or Canon. Then again, would that HD camera shoot something significant like the 2001 World Trade Centre attack? It would, but it won't be sharp, but at least you get the shot. Fast forward 25 years, and you have a smartphone that shoots pretty close to the quality of excellent film cameras, without the film grain. So what's stopping you from capturing decisive moments? The smartphones are too good for most that heck, even youngsters are going back to 2000s compact cameras like the Fujifilm cameras that I sold in partnership with MS Color in NUS/NTU flea market when digital cameras were starting to emerge for the consumer market, just for that old-school digital feel (aka Fujifilm Tokyo filter). To complain that Smartphones are not as good as Mirrorless is asking a Toyota Supra to become an F1 car. Each has a place, and it is up to the user to know which tools to use within a budget that one can accept. Besides, can a good photographer use any tools to shoot good photos? Would a good camera transform Tom, Dick or Mary into a pro? I think we know the answer: both tools and skills are needed in equal measure.

Ever noticed how much power sits in the smartphone in your pocket? With the right approach, you can capture travel moments, cityscapes, and nature in ways that tell stories, not just record snapshots. I started Mobile Camera Field Notes because I wanted a space where smartphone photographers — both learners and experienced shooters — could come together to travel, learn, and create with purpose. This is not about chasing trends or filters; it’s about understanding light, composition, and storytelling on location, and sharing what we learn along the way. Whether you’re experimenting with your first shots or refining advanced techniques, this group is for real-world learning, discussion, and inspiration. We’ll explore both nature and urban environments, exchange tips, and push the limits of what your smartphone can do. Let’s capture, share, and grow together!