The iPhone camera has advanced significantly in a relatively short time. Features that once required a separate camera and several lenses are now built into a device that is almost always within reach. However, that does not mean every shot automatically becomes a good photo. In the Dutch-language second edition of Scott Kelby's book, whose title translates as Photographing with the iPhone, he shows how technology and photographic insight can reinforce each other.
Kelby already published a book about iPhone photography in 2021. Since then, new iPhone models have appeared, and the capabilities of the camera app and iOS have expanded further. The new edition reflects those developments while remaining focused on the fundamentals of photography: light, composition, viewpoint, and the right moment.
Taking photographs instead of merely recording
An iPhone makes it remarkably easy to capture an image. The camera is quickly accessible, focuses almost automatically, and handles much of the exposure itself. Precisely because of this, photography can easily become little more than collecting quick snapshots.
Kelby encourages readers to look at a subject more deliberately. He explains the choices professional photographers make before pressing the shutter and translates that approach to the iPhone. In his view, this does not always require complicated equipment or extensive technical knowledge. A different viewpoint, better light, or a small adjustment to the composition can make a major difference.
The explanations are presented as if the author were out taking photos alongside the reader. Jargon is avoided as much as possible, and each page covers one specific topic, tool, or practical technique. This allows readers to apply a tip immediately without first having to study an entire chapter.
Portraits in different lighting
Photographing people is an important part of the book. The quality of a portrait is determined not only by the camera, but above all by how the light falls on the face and how the person poses for the camera.
With a careful approach, a phone image can also gain more depth, calm, and expressive power.
Kelby covers techniques for portraits in a range of lighting conditions. He also includes straightforward guidance on posture and posing. Small changes in body position, the direction of the face, or the height of the camera can help someone look more natural and flattering in a photo.
The book makes use of the capabilities offered by recent iPhones, but the focus remains on the final image. Camera features are not an end in themselves, but tools for achieving a particular result.
Readers who first want to get to know their Camera app better can start with these five iPhone camera settings worth checking.
From landscapes to everyday subjects
In addition to portraits, Kelby discusses landscape photography. He shows how light, foreground, lines, and image composition, among other elements, contribute to a compelling landscape photo. With a careful approach, a phone image can also gain more depth, calm, and expressive power.
The book is not limited to portraits and landscapes. It also covers flowers, food, products, travel, and other everyday subjects. This makes the publication relevant to situations in which the iPhone is probably already the camera being used.
Selecting and editing photos
Anyone who takes many photos with a phone will quickly build up a large photo library. Kelby therefore also addresses managing, selecting, and editing images. He discusses both the iPhone's own capabilities and additional apps and tools.
Editing is presented as the final step in the photographic process. By carefully adjusting exposure, color, and cropping, a successful shot can be refined further. The underlying principle, however, is that a good photo is already created when the picture is taken.
A practical guide for iPhone photographers
Photographing with the iPhone – 2nd Edition is intended for users who want to get more from their phone camera. Beginners receive accessible guidance to help them photograph more deliberately, while experienced photographers can find ideas for using their iPhone more often as a serious camera.
The main message is that good photography does not depend exclusively on expensive equipment. A compelling image can also be made with an iPhone, as the best iPhone photos of the year also demonstrate, provided enough attention is paid to light, composition, timing, and the person or subject in front of the camera.
The iPhone Photography Book, 2nd Edition – 2nd Edition
Author: Scott Kelby
Pages: 288
Recommended retail price: €34.99
Publisher: Van Duuren Media
ISBN: 9789463564441
Publication date: July 28, 2026
