Mobile Phone Lenses

Mobile phone cameras are good. Mobile phone cameras with the right clip-on lens are something else entirely. A small lens that costs less than a takeaway dinner can replicate jobs that used to need a dedicated DSLR.

Macro lenses

The most popular phone lens. Lets the camera focus on objects 1cm to 5cm away. Jewellery makers use them for hallmarks, gardeners use them for plant detail, parents use them for kids' insect projects. APEXEL is the brand most pros recommend.

Wide angle lenses

Squeeze more into the frame without stepping back. Landscapes, group shots, interiors, real estate, architecture. Lenses range from mild 0.6x to ultra-wide 0.36x. Wider means more of the scene, also more edge distortion.

Telephoto and zoom lenses

Bring distant subjects closer without losing detail. Sports, wildlife, concerts. Phone digital zoom destroys image quality, an optical telephoto lens preserves it. APEXEL 18x and 36x optical zooms are popular with birdwatchers.

Fisheye lenses

Extreme wide angle with a curved, bulging look. Used for skateboarding, action sports, creative content. Not for portraits unless you want a comedy effect.

Filter and special lenses

CPL filters cut glare from glass and water. Star filters add a sparkle effect. Anamorphic lenses give cinematic widescreen with lens flares. These are creative tools rather than utility lenses.

How phone lenses attach

Most use a spring-loaded clip that fits over the phone with the lens centred on the camera. Universal clips fit most phones. Some pro lenses come with a phone case that screw-mounts the lens for a more solid hold. Check your phone's camera bump before buying.

Picking the right lens

Decide what you actually shoot. One macro lens covers 80% of close-up needs. One wide lens covers landscapes and interiors. A telephoto adds reach. Most users do not need fisheye or anamorphic unless they shoot creative content.