Reed Pike Photography

There’s an old adage in photography: the best camera is the one you have with you. Its origins and even its validity are debated, but in the smartphone era, it often feels true. More often than not, the best camera I have is the one in my pocket.

I rarely carry my digital or analog cameras unless I’m intentionally going out to make photographs. Often, I leave that “serious” gear behind, trusting that my iPhone will be enough if something arises. It has limitations, and the image quality doesn’t always compare to a dedicated camera—but at least I have an image.

On long walks with my partner—the Camino de Santiago, the St. Francis Way, and the Coast to Coast walk in England—I sometimes carried only my iPhone. The files aren’t as flexible as those made with more traditional equipment, but I don’t regret the choice. Carrying less allowed me to stay present, and the photographs are good enough. Some are even better than I expected.

I use the iPhone because it keeps me photographing. When inspiration is thin, I head out and shoot without expectations. Sometimes I find what I’m looking for; other times I’m simply sharpening my eye. Either way, I’m making photographs—and sometimes, that’s the point.

Most of the images here were made using: Halide Mark II, ProCamera, Hipstamatic, Provoke, Lightroom, Indigo, ReeHeld, and Camera1.