Are iPhone "Camera Lenses" Worth Using in 2025?

About this video

• Video Title: Are iPhone "Camera Lenses" Worth Using in 2025?
• Channel: Evan Ranft
• Speakers: Evan Ranft
• Duration: 00:12:48

Overview

This video reviews three different Moment brand iPhone camera lenses: an anamorphic lens, a fisheye lens, and a telephoto lens. The creator assesses their practical use for photo and video creation on an iPhone, discussing their effectiveness, user experience, and whether they are a worthwhile addition to an iPhone creator's kit in 2025.

Key takeaways

• Anamorphic Lens: Offers a cinematic widescreen effect and unique flare, best used with the Moment app for automatic de-squeezing and non-RAW JPEG output. It's a powerful tool if used correctly, but requires a learning curve.
• Fisheye Lens: Provides a stylized, distorted, larger-than-life look, capturing more of the scene. It's great for artistic effects but may not be suitable for those wanting clean, straight lines. Clarity can be slightly compromised compared to the native iPhone lens. It's generally better for photos than handheld video due to stabilization differences.
• Telephoto Lens (58mm): The creator found this lens offered minimal improvement over the iPhone's native 2x zoom, with images often appearing soft and lacking significant distinction. It's not recommended for recent iPhone models with advanced telephoto capabilities.
• User Experience: Attaching and detaching lenses can reduce the spontaneity of iPhone photography. A tripod mount is recommended for more stable and unique shots.
• Intentional Use: The effectiveness of these lenses depends on the creator's specific needs and understanding of their capabilities and limitations. They are not a universal solution but can enhance specific creative styles.