The iPhone 16 Pro for Street Photography: My Initial Impressions and Short-Term Review
Mirza Ghalib Municipal Market, Mumbai. January, 2025. Shot on the iPhone 16 Pro.
Note: This article is a work in progress and will be updated into a more comprehensive “long-term review” after a few months of use. For now, it captures my initial thoughts and experiences with the iPhone 16 Pro. As I gather more images from my street photography sessions, I’ll also be adding proper supplementary photos to provide a fuller picture of its capabilities. Thanks for your patience while I build out the complete review!
Preface
The iPhone 16 Pro is now part of my street photography camera kit, joining my full-frame Sony A7iii and compact Sony ZV-1. While I’m overdue for an upgrade to my “main camera,” I’m still holding out to see what full-frame options materialize in 2025. My primary concern remains finding a camera with a compact form factor and high-resolution capabilities—ideally something professional-grade with a dual card slot. This particular requirement eliminates some of the obvious contenders, like the Sony A7CR or even the Leica Q3, which might be great in other respects but don’t quite tick all my boxes.
Until there’s a nod from manufacturers toward professional photographers seeking ultra-compact, high-resolution gear with dual card slots, I’ll likely stick with larger form factors for my paid work. That said, I’m not ruling out jumping ship to another camera brand entirely—maybe even exploring medium format if the right option comes along. But those decisions are a problem for future me.
For now, I’ve turned my focus to the newest addition to my kit: the iPhone 16 Pro. This purchase wasn’t on my radar at all—it was a bit of a wildcard decision—but it has proven to be an exciting ride full of unexpected surprises. My Android phone had served its purpose well for years, but the leap to the iPhone was driven not just by its convenience, but by the promise of ProRAW shooting and the potential for this device to play a significant role in my street photography workflow.
In this article, I’ll explore the iPhone 16 Pro as a street photography tool, diving into its camera features, real-world performance, and how it integrates into my practice. Beyond that, I’ll share my plans to leverage this device for producing fine art photography—an area of my work that is deeply rooted in the streets anyway.
Here’s a detailed look at the essentials of this camera, what drew me to it, and how it’s fitting into my creative process so far.
Why I Chose the iPhone 16 Pro for Street Photography
The iPhone 16 Pro Max vs. the iPhone 16 Pro vs. the iPhone 16
First off, why not the iPhone 16 Pro Max? Well, to be honest, without really doing the math as far as the dimensions of each phone, I read some reviews about how much larger the Pro Max is and how it may not be as pocketable. It turns out, this is complete rubbish. The iPhone 16 Pro Max is very pocketable and would fit in any pocket I own that the iPhone 16 Pro would fit. In fact, the Pro Max was a very similar size to my previous Android. Even with a hard case, it fits perfectly. I’ve since seen both phones side by side. The difference, despite iPhone’s marketing to the contrary, is very slight in my book, almost comically so. But do note this is coming from an Android user who has apparently been using Pro Max-sized cameras by default forever without being the wiser.
Apart from this bit of misunderstanding on my part, I wasn’t too bent out of shape about the differences between the two phones in general. Both the cameras are the same and the only real thing you’re getting is a slightly larger screen and extended battery life. Cost comparrison: I saw no real benefit to going all out by purchasing the iPhone 16 Pro Max for my first iPhone. I may change my tune the next time around, but for street photography, I believe anyone could “make do” with the iPhone 16 Pro if they wanted to save some money.
Let’s be clear—I’m completely ignoring the standard iPhone 16. It’s missing too many of the features found on the Pro models, so it’s not even worth considering. And while the iPhone 16 Pro Max has its merits, I’ve opted for the iPhone 16 Pro this time around. I won’t be discussing either the standard iPhone 16 or the Pro Max any further in this article. So for those of you who have taken a similar path, read on! I hope you find some value in this article that will help you with your street photography.
The $1,000 App
There’s one iOS app I’d been reading about for ages, and it was so enticing I often joke that it cost me $1,000—the price of the iPhone 16 Pro—because I wanted it that badly. Honestly, that’s not far from the truth although the app itself is reasonably priced at $2.99. The Slow Shutter Cam app is a brilliant tool for capturing intentional camera movement (ICM) images right on your iPhone. When I first got into ICM photography over a year ago, I kept hearing photographers rave about this app and the stunning results it could produce straight out of the camera. The aesthetic was distinctly different from what you could achieve with a DSLR or mirrorless system, and I found it incredibly appealing. I knew if I ever got my hands on it, I could take full advantage of its capabilities.
Fast forward to today, and I’m not disappointed. Although I’m still just scratching the surface, I’ve already captured hundreds of images using the Slow Shutter Cam app and absolutely love the results. While I still prefer editing on my desktop or laptop, many of the images are good enough straight out of the camera to edit directly on the phone with Snapseed. (We’ll get into editing apps and my workflow later.) Suffice to say, this app alone has been totally worth the price of admission!
The Camera That’s Always With Me
The old saying, “The best camera is the one that’s with you,” isn’t far from the truth—though it often feels debatable, doesn’t it? Before making the jump to the iPhone, I relied on my mid-range Android. It had decent camera capabilities and was fine in a pinch if I didn’t have my other cameras on hand, but it never wowed me with its performance or image quality. The video, in particular, was a constant letdown. My model—and even some of its predecessors—would occasionally start recording with a shaky screen, no matter how steady my hand was. I wasn’t alone; I’d seen plenty of complaints in forums, but no updates or troubleshooting ever solved the issue.
Enter the iPhone 16 Pro. Problem solved. Every video I’ve shot so far has been smooth and free of those frustrating glitches. Beyond that, the camera itself is a game-changer. Having a world-class camera with me at all times is an absolute godsend, and I can’t deny that a top-tier iPhone is the perfect complement to my photography kit. It fills the gaps where my other gear can’t go, and I’m starting to see just how powerful that can be.
Keeping Up With the Joneses
It’s undeniable that having the latest and greatest camera gear feels good—and it subtly communicates to others that you’re serious about photography. I don’t mean this in a superficial sense, either. In many circles outside of photography, the iPhone is considered the “professional’s smartphone” for good reason, none of which involves just making phone calls. Clients are bound to notice, and I wouldn’t be surprised if owning an iPhone 16 Pro gives me an unofficial seat at the table when conversations about photography and tech come up.
Many of you have probably experienced this phenomenon already. From FaceTime to AirDrop, seamless integration with other Apple products, and even using Apple Pay, the iPhone carries a premium vibe that’s hard to ignore. This perception of professionalism can translate into smoother interactions with clients. And when all else is equal, these subtle advantages could make a difference. And despite the tendency in the purist’s world of street photography to downplay technology, I’m guessing there are untold thousands of iPhone users out there who make use of various models for street photography already, stigma be damned.
Flying Under the Radar
One of the most compelling reasons to have an iPhone, particularly for street photography, is its ability to capture world-class photos in situations where carrying a larger mirrorless camera might not be practical—or even allowed. This includes spaces like malls, train stations, or other private properties where public access is granted, but photography with professional gear often draws the scrutiny of security or police. In India especially, the iPhone proves invaluable for capturing candid moments. Smartphones are so ubiquitous that they rarely raise eyebrows, making them the perfect tool for blending in.
This has been particularly true for me as a foreigner walking around Mumbai, where I already attract a fair amount of attention. Since using the Slow Shutter Cam app at the beach or shooting on crowded streets, I’ve noticed significantly less interaction from strangers. The usual requests to take photos—something that happens often with a big mirrorless camera—have virtually disappeared. A foreigner with a smartphone is unremarkable. A foreigner with a fancy mirrorless camera, however, is a magnet for attention, particularly from children and teenagers curious to interact. Large cameras inevitably become conversation starters. With my iPhone, I’m happy to report that I’ve been able to shoot more discreetly, allowing me to focus solely on the moment at hand.
Ergonomics and Handling
Despite thoroughly enjoying the iPhone 16 Pro so far, my biggest complaint remains unchanged: the poor ergonomics and handling of smartphones. One of the first things I had to do was purchase a MagSafe transparent case—not just for protection, but for grip. Without it, the iPhone 16 Pro feels ridiculously slippery, even worse than my Android did without a case. As beautiful as the sleek design and titanium build may be, it all feels meaningless when the phone is so prone to slipping out of my hands.
To address this, I’ve done my best to "safe-proof" the device with a sturdy case and a privacy screen protector. While that solves the immediate problem, I’ve also been experimenting with other solutions to make shooting with the iPhone 16 Pro for street photography more practical and enjoyable. It’s a work in progress, but I’m determined to find the right setup for certain situations.
Apart from my complaint, I’ve realized that I need to get over it and learn to use the iPhone for street photography until it becomes second nature. There are several features, techniques, and accessories that can help. Here are some of the ways that make handling and using the iPhone 16 Pro’s cameras more effective and enjoyable.
Phone Grip
I purchased a phone grip that attaches magnetically to the MagSafe case, and it’s been a surprisingly useful accessory for situations where one-handed shooting is ideal. The grip holds the phone securely, and with a built-in shutter button on top, it allows the iPhone to be operated like a traditional camera with relative ease. However, there’s one significant drawback: the lag. Like every Bluetooth-enabled tool I’ve used with smartphones, there’s a noticeable delay between pressing the shutter and the camera actually taking the shot. Sometimes, it doesn’t register at all.
This isn’t unique to the grip—I had the same issues with my Android. I constantly find myself double-checking the connection by firing off a dummy photo before heading out to the streets. While the grip does make the iPhone 16 Pro more practical as a one-handed street photography tool, this lag and the uncertainty it creates take away from its overall speed and reliability. For those reasons, I don’t use it all the time, but I usually pack it in my backpack as a backup accessory.
The only other downside is its limited compatibility with the Slow Camera App, which I frequently use. The app’s design requires you to either save and clear each photo or delete it entirely after every shot. This process is far more convenient with two hands, making the phone grip impractical for this specific use case. While it’s a great tool for certain scenarios, it’s not without its frustrations.
Selfie Shutter Button
I’ve been using selfie shutter buttons for smartphone photography for years, and it’s surprising how little attention this method gets. I’ve never seen anyone write about it or discuss it on YouTube. Sometimes it feels like I invented it—but I’m sure there are others out there doing the same thing. The concept is simple: I remove the shutter button from a regular selfie stick, pair it with my iPhone via Bluetooth, and I’m ready to go.
This approach is fantastic for street photography, especially when you want to stay discreet. With the shutter button in one hand and my iPhone casually in the other, I can nonchalantly aim the camera at my subject and press the button without drawing attention. Most people don’t realize I’m taking photos, even when they’re looking directly at me. This technique makes it much easier to capture candid moments while walking through busy streets. In my experience, 99% of the time, people are completely unaware they’ve been photographed.
Of course, there’s the usual Bluetooth issue. I constantly have to check the connection, and there’s always a noticeable lag between pressing the button and the camera taking the shot. Still, if your goal is to stay under the radar, this method works wonderfully. While I don’t use it all the time, having one of my shutter buttons with me is always an option during street photography sessions.
Selfie Stick and Tripods
I originally purchased a selfie stick that doubles as a tripod mainly for the shutter button, but after using it in a few situations, I’ve found it to be a surprisingly useful tool—especially for long exposures and controlled shots. While compact tripods like mine aren’t the sturdiest due to their lightweight design, their portability more than makes up for it.
If you really want to push the iPhone 16 Pro’s image quality in a controlled environment, particularly for long exposures, an extendable tripod is invaluable. Ironically, a couple of months into using the iPhone 16 Pro, I’ve found myself carrying a backpack with all my accessories, including the tripod, on most shoots. Since I typically bring a small backpack for longer sessions anyway, the tripod’s weight is negligible, making it an effective tool—especially for sunrise shots, which is where I use it the most.
As I continue experimenting with the iPhone 16 Pro, I’ll likely expand on this topic and other gear insights in future blog posts.
AirPods
Another accessory that’s been suggested for photography with the iPhone 16 Pro is AirPods. While the idea of using the volume button as a remote shutter sounds great on paper—potentially enabling burst mode for quick shots—the reality is far from reliable in fast-paced street photography.
I tested this with third-party AirPods (which, let’s be honest, are probably built with the same supply chain as Apple’s), and the experience was inconsistent. Finding the right spot on the volume button was clumsy, and even when I had the AirPods in hand and ready, the shutter would either fire with a delay or not at all about half the time. This lack of reliability makes it a poor choice for capturing fleeting moments.
However, in slower-paced situations—such as “fishing” for compositions and waiting for a subject to walk into the frame—the method could work. That said, I’d still prefer using the dedicated camera button or the volume button on the phone itself. AirPods might have some value in situations where discretion is crucial, such as shooting from a café table or standing next to subjects at a crosswalk. Even then, a remote shutter release might be the better option or at least just as reliable.
Ultimately, while AirPods might have niche uses for reducing shake with a tripod, they’re not something I’d rely on for street photography. They do, however, remain excellent for listening to music and catching up on my favorite YouTube photographers.
Voice Control to Take Pictures
Another method I’ve tested in the field is using voice commands to take pictures with the iPhone 16 Pro. It’s a convenient hands-free option in certain situations, like framing a tricky subject while relying on the camera’s level feature or when the phone is mounted on a tripod. In noisy, busy streets, it works well without drawing too much attention.
That said, I suspect I’ll use this feature less over time. The main issue? You have to leave voice controls on for it to work, and if you forget to turn them off, they can interfere with your phone’s operations. I’ve had this happen a couple of times after shooting, when I was exchanging numbers with subjects who wanted copies of their photos—only to find my phone randomly executing commands based on what I was saying. It was frustrating enough that I had to put my phone away and fumble through settings later.
That being said, I’ll still use voice commands in the right situations, particularly in crowded or noisy environments where talking to yourself doesn’t make you stand out. Just be sure to disable voice control after your session to avoid any unintended surprises.
The Dedicated Camera Button
I’ve saved the best for last. The iPhone 16 Pro introduces a dedicated camera button, a feature that immediately caught my attention as a street photographer. Positioned for easy access, this button offers an unprecedented level of convenience by allowing you to raise the camera almost instantaneously—even when the phone is locked. This feature is brand new to the iPhone 16 Pro and deserves recognition, especially for photographers who value speed and readiness in capturing fleeting moments.
The button's functionality goes beyond just launching the camera. With a soft press, you can fine-tune settings like exposure, but in the heat of street photography, where subjects and scenes are constantly shifting, using this feature for quick adjustments is impractical unless you’re photographing still subjects—or those you’re working with directly. For most real-world street scenarios, it’s far easier to rely on the phone’s drop-down menu to make any necessary exposure changes before diving into the action. However, the dedicated camera button excels in its primary role: getting the camera up and running faster than anything else on the market.
In my experience, pressing the button to raise the camera is as fast—or faster—than waking a professional mirrorless camera from standby mode or powering on a compact mirrorless camera. The speed is remarkable and offers a significant advantage for street photographers who often need to capture a shot in seconds. It’s no exaggeration to say the iPhone 16 Pro wins most quick-draw contests when it comes to getting the camera ready to shoot. This feature not only saves time but also conserves battery life, a critical factor for extended shooting sessions. Unlike my usual approach with mirrorless cameras, where I leave them powered on to stay ready, the iPhone’s camera button lets me walk with the phone in hand, press the button, and have the camera ready to shoot before I even raise it to frame my subject.
The dedicated camera button integrates seamlessly with the iPhone’s camera interface, giving you immediate access to many of the camera’s features, including video. But for me, I find it best to just open up the camera and press it again to simply take a picture quickly. I’ll definitely need more practice with it if I’m ever to use the rest of the menu options. I find the controls, at least at the moment, way too finicky to manipulate on the fly. Regardless, the menu system offers a range of advanced settings, the speed and simplicity of the button make it indispensable for capturing those decisive moments in street photography. For anyone serious about photographing life on the streets, this is a feature that shouldn’t be overlooked. In my opinion, this feature alone may be worth the price of admission into the iPhone world for serious street photographers who are looking for an alternative to similarly-priced compact mirrorless cameras.
Performance and Image Quality
January 2025. Sassoon Docks, in Mumbai (edited).
I’ve had the iPhone 16 Pro in my hands for a couple of months now, and it’s the best phone camera I’ve ever used for street photography. While I’ve used plenty of compact digital cameras over the years, this phone has made them—and all their accessories—completely unnecessary for me.
From the start, the iPhone 16 Pro delivered top-tier performance. The images look fantastic on the phone’s display, but the real test came when pixel-peeping on both the phone and my computer. Compared to similarly exposed shots from my mirrorless systems, the iPhone 16 Pro significantly reduces the typical “smartphone look,” even straight out of the camera. After editing the RAW files, the results are even more impressive.
I’ve now added a gallery of edited images—including both color and black-and-white examples—to highlight what this phone can do. I’ll continue to update posts related to image quality as I explore the camera’s full potential, but as far as performance goes, autofocus is a non-issue. It’s at least on par with, if not surpassing, the capabilities of compact cameras I’ve used, like the Sony ZV-1 and various action cams. And in certain situations, the image quality outright matches or exceeds what I was getting from those cameras.
At this point, if the iPhone 16 Pro’s image quality is indistinguishable from what I get out of pocketable mirrorless systems—both edited and straight out of the camera—why would I keep playing the “find the perfect compact camera” game? For all the criticisms I might still have of Apple, they’ve effectively put an end to my need for compact cameras, at least while I’m in India.
On top of that, my entire workflow is now streamlined. I can edit images directly on my phone and upload them to Dropbox, Flickr, and Apple Photos without needing to transfer them to my computer first. So far, this process has been seamless. I can still see a difference in quality between my iPhone 16 Pro and my Sony full-frame mirrorless images, particularly in low light or extreme lighting situations—but that’s exactly what I have those cameras for.
For something pocketable and dependable, my search for the camera that’s always with me is over. Full stop.
The iPhone 16 Pro Onboard Cameras
Alright, it’s time for the juicy stuff — the cameras. The iPhone 16 Pro’s camera setup is a dream for street photographers, offering versatility and precision in a compact, discreet device. Its four focal lengths cater to a variety of street scenarios: the Ultra-Wide (13mm, f/2.2) is ideal for capturing expansive cityscapes and tight alleyways, the Main Wide (24mm, f/1.78) handles everyday street scenes with exceptional clarity, and the Telephoto (120mm, f/2.8) with 5x optical zoom lets you discreetly photograph subjects from a distance. Additionally, the 2x zoom (48mm) is achieved by cropping the Main Wide camera’s 48MP sensor, providing a mid-telephoto focal length without sacrificing quality—perfect for framing tighter shots or isolating subjects while maintaining sharpness.
.5x 48 megapixel, Ultra Wide Camera. 13mm full frame equivalent focal length.
1x 48 megapixel, Main (Wide) Camera. 24mm full frame equivalent focal length.
2x 12 megapixel, Digital Zoom Camera. 48mm full frame equivalent focal length.
5x 12 megapixel, Telephoto camera. 120mm full frame equivalent focal length.
This advanced autofocus system is a key reason the iPhone 16 Pro locks onto subjects so easily, even in dynamic or low-light conditions. To my eyes, it performs impressively, holding its own against professional mirrorless systems in many situations. The seamless focus across its cameras enhances the device's reliability for street photography, in my experience so far, making it a versatile and effective tool for capturing sharp, high-quality images on the go.
The iPhone 16 Pro has been an unexpected relief for me as a prime lens shooter. Normally, I have to make the sometimes agonizing decision of which lenses to pack before heading out. While I love using my 24mm prime for everyday moments, I also rely on my 35mm, 50mm, and 85mm lenses, depending on the situation. With the iPhone’s built-in lens lineup, that stress is completely removed. I can head out the door knowing I have multiple focal lengths covered, all in one device.
That said, the system isn’t perfect. The moment you rely on the iPhone’s digital zoom, you start sacrificing resolution. For instance, if you double-tap on the 1x camera, it effectively gives you a 28mm focal length, and another tap takes you to 35mm. While this sounds great in theory, the loss of resolution becomes apparent quickly when pixel-peeking on a desktop. The same holds true for any of the cameras when pushed beyond their optical range. The phone offers up to 25x digital zoom—whatever artificial focal length that equates to—but at that extreme, I imagine maintaining image quality or controlling camera shake without a tripod would be nearly impossible.
As someone who’s used to the discipline of prime lenses, I don’t see myself relying much on the digital zoom or stepping outside the standard camera options. I’m comfortable “zooming with my feet,” and the iPhone 16 Pro’s optical focal lengths give me enough versatility to work with. It’s not a perfect system, but for someone like me, it works just fine.
My Strategy for Using Apple ProRes Raw
As a professional photographer—and a street photographer, no less—shooting in RAW is non-negotiable for me. When I drop over a thousand dollars on a camera system like the iPhone 16 Pro, I’m certainly not settling for JPEGs or HEICs just because they’re “good enough” for most people. RAW is essential for bringing out the maximum image quality, giving me the flexibility to edit my images to their fullest potential. Post-processing isn’t just a step in my workflow—it’s an integral part of my creative process. In fact, I enjoy the editing stage as much as taking the photos themselves. I can spend hours fine-tuning a handful of images, especially because my work often leans toward fine art photography, which demands precision and benefits greatly from larger viewing options on a desktop or laptop.
That said, I’ve developed a strategy for when it’s okay to step away from RAW—something I rarely do but find increasingly practical in certain situations. For over 90% of my work, RAW is my go-to format. But for quick, casual moments—like group photos, selfies, or social shots—switching to HEIC or JPEG makes sense, especially when I want to take advantage of features that aren’t available in RAW mode.
The Case for JPEG and HEIC in Casual Situations
As much as I love RAW for its flexibility, there are times when efficiency trumps ultimate image quality. Group photos, selfies, or shots taken during casual get-togethers are perfect examples. In these situations, the iPhone 16 Pro’s built-in portrait and computational features shine. Shooting in HEIC or JPEG unlocks tools like Photographic Styles, Smart HDR, and Deep Fusion, which aren’t accessible when shooting in RAW. These features instantly enhance images with natural tones, balanced highlights and shadows, and better texture processing.
For instance, when I’m snapping a quick group photo, I can use Portrait Mode to create that appealing bokeh effect, isolating my subjects from the background. I can even adjust the depth of field or switch between different lighting effects like “Studio” or “Contour,” all without needing to open an editing app. Similarly, Photographic Styles allows me to apply preset tones and adjustments in-camera, customizing the look and feel of my photos before I even take them. These styles retain the dynamic range and depth you’d expect from a computational camera, but with the ease of a one-and-done image.
The beauty of these tools is that they allow me to send off polished photos to friends or family within seconds, no editing required. As someone who normally spends hours perfecting fine art images, it’s refreshing to have the option to take a few shots, apply in-camera effects, and share them instantly without pulling out my laptop or diving into a deep editing session. This saves me valuable time and lets me stay in the moment, rather than being tied up in my usual detailed workflow.
A Strategic Approach to Shooting Formats
My strategy is simple: I reserve RAW for my professional or artistic work—images I know will require more intensive post-processing to bring my vision to life. This includes most of my street photography, where I rely on RAW files to recover details, fine-tune color grading, and enhance compositions. With RAW, I can manipulate every aspect of the image, from shadows to highlights, giving me unparalleled creative control.
On the other hand, I use JPEG or HEIC for moments that don’t demand that level of detail or precision. For instance, when taking selfies or quick shots at social gatherings, the difference in quality between RAW and HEIC is negligible for my needs. In fact, for many casual situations, the iPhone’s HEIC files often look better straight out of the camera, thanks to the computational features I mentioned earlier.
Another consideration is the time and space RAW files consume. RAW photos are significantly larger in size, which can quickly eat up storage space—especially if you’re shooting hundreds of images in a day. For shots that I know I’ll never need to edit heavily or print large, the smaller file size of HEIC or JPEG is a practical choice. It’s also worth noting that my iPhone 16 Pro allows me to switch between formats effortlessly, meaning I can adapt to the situation without missing a beat.
Balancing Efficiency and Creativity
This balance between RAW and non-RAW shooting has made the iPhone 16 Pro an even more versatile tool for me. While I remain deeply committed to RAW for my professional and fine art work, I’ve come to appreciate the convenience of JPEG and HEIC for personal and casual photography. Features like Smart HDR, Portrait Mode, and Photographic Styles simplify the process of capturing and sharing high-quality images, giving me more time to focus on my craft or just enjoy the moment.
Ultimately, the iPhone 16 Pro’s ability to seamlessly switch between professional-grade RAW capabilities and consumer-friendly computational features is what sets it apart. It’s a camera system that adapts to my needs, whether I’m meticulously editing a fine art project or sending a quick, polished group photo to my family. This flexibility has made it an indispensable part of my kit, offering the best of both worlds in a device that fits in my pocket.
Battery Life of the iPhone 16 Pro
The iPhone 16 Pro is officially rated for up to 27 hours of video playback, indicating a robust battery capacity. However, in real-world, high-intensity scenarios—like continuous RAW shooting during street photography sessions—battery performance can be less impressive or at least as expected. From my experience, during 2 to 3-hour shooting sessions, the battery depletes rapidly, necessitating the use of external power banks to ensure the device remains operational for both photography and essential phone functions. This observation aligns with reports from other users who have noted similar battery drain issues under heavy usage.
In my forthcoming long-term review, I plan to provide more precise data on battery longevity under various usage patterns to offer a clearer picture of what users can expect during intensive photography outings. But so far, nothing that can’t be mitigated with proper planning.
My Assessment So Far: Full Speed Ahead, Captain!
As I wrap up this initial review of the iPhone 16 Pro, one thing has become abundantly clear: my search for a compact alternative to my larger mirrorless camera system is over. After years of considering options like Sony’s RX series or the Ricoh GRIII—and even writing extensively about how much I love my Sony ZV-1—the iPhone 16 Pro has stepped in as the more versatile, practical choice for street photography. While the ZV-1 remains a fantastic camera for street photography, I expect to use it much less, if at all, now that the iPhone 16 Pro has proven its capability to handle most scenarios where I previously relied on the ZV-1.
The iPhone’s portability and flexibility are standout features for me. Gone are the days of agonizing over which prime lens to pack or whether I need a backup camera body. The iPhone 16 Pro, with its built-in focal lengths from 13mm to 120mm, eliminates that stress entirely. For street photography, where discretion, speed, and spontaneity are critical, it has become an invaluable tool. I’m able to walk out the door with nothing more than my phone, knowing I can handle almost any photographic situation.
One of the biggest game-changers has been the dedicated camera button, which allows me to launch the camera almost instantaneously—even when the phone is locked. It’s so fast that it outpaces traditional cameras, including compact models like the ZV-1 or even my mirrorless system in standby mode. For street photography, where capturing fleeting moments is everything, this feature alone makes the iPhone 16 Pro worth serious consideration. Combine that with its computational photography features, like Photographic Styles and Smart HDR, and it’s clear that this phone is built to handle both casual and professional needs.
Battery life remains a concern, particularly during heavy use, such as extended RAW shooting sessions. I’ve found myself relying on portable chargers to keep the phone powered throughout longer sessions. While this doesn’t diminish its overall usefulness, it’s something I’ll continue to evaluate for my long-term review. As I gather more experience and data, I’ll be able to provide a clearer picture of the phone’s battery performance under different conditions.
Looking forward, I plan to expand on this review by covering post-processing techniques and camera apps that unlock even more of the iPhone 16 Pro’s potential. Apps like Lightroom Mobile and Halide offer manual controls that bring the shooting experience closer to that of a traditional camera. Other apps, such as Hipstamatic, provide creative options for stylized photography. Of course, I’m still using Snapseed, my go-to editing app from my Android days, and I expect it to remain a staple in my workflow. These tools will be part of my long-term exploration as I fine-tune how I use the iPhone for both casual and professional work.
For now, though, I can confidently say that the iPhone 16 Pro has exceeded my expectations. It’s a tool that combines professional-grade capabilities with the convenience and portability of a smartphone. While it won’t replace my full-frame cameras for certain assignments, it has officially ended my search for a compact camera solution. Whether I’m capturing spontaneous street scenes or editing on the go, the iPhone 16 Pro has proven itself to be an indispensable addition to my kit.
As I continue to explore its features and test its limits, I look forward to sharing more insights, images, and videos in a future long-term review. For now, the iPhone 16 Pro has earned its place as my go-to compact camera, and I’m excited to see how it continues to enhance my street photography journey.
