Do I Really Need a Backup Camera?

...when I have an iPhone 15 Pro Max in my pocket.

During a recent TDS Podcast, I discussed the camera kits that were in contention for an upcoming Alaska adventure. The two finalists were the Nikon Zf and the OM System OM-1 (both great cameras!). The debate generated quite a bit of mail, with some respondents stating that I should take both so I would have a backup.

As always, I plan on traveling light. Two kits are more gear than I want to pack and look after. And besides, I have an iPhone 15 Pro Max. Doesn’t that qualify as a backup camera?

No, I’m Not Crazy

Hear me out. My iPhone has an ultra-wide, telephoto, and a “regular” wide-angle lens/camera. In terms of viewing angle, I can go all the way up to 120mm. Here are its camera specs:

• 48MP Main: 24 mm, ƒ/1.78

• 12MP Ultra Wide: 13 mm, ƒ/2.2

• 12MP 2x Telephoto (enabled by quad‑pixel sensor): 48 mm, ƒ/1.78

• 12MP 5x Telephoto: 120 mm, ƒ/2.8

Additionally, I have some killer photography apps: Leica LUX, Halide, Lightroom, RAW Power, and Photomator. With this software, I can creatively shape my images to provide a variety of effects.

The iPhone doesn’t draw any attention to itself. So no one will give me a second look when I’m engaging in street photography in Juneau or documenting my photo expedition group while hiking on a glacier.

I can shoot in RAW, HEIC, or Jpeg. Each format has its advantages, and switching among them is easy.

And best of all, my iPhone doesn’t add the bulk of a second camera and lenses.

But What About Picture Quality?

Images from my full-frame Nikon Zf will hold up better when severely cropped or enlarged past 13” x 19”. But the bulk of my publishing is online. And for that purpose, most folks won’t be able to tell which camera I used.

Keep in mind: I am a photographer.

I know how to get the most out of any camera. I know better than to stretch the iPhone beyond its capabilities. And if I miss a shot here and there as a result, that’s life.

But what if I never need a backup camera? What if everything goes fine with my Nikon? That is the more likely case. And by not packing a bulky backup camera kit that never gets used, I’ve simplified my travel.

The Last Frame

I fully support photographers who want to be prepared for every situation, good or bad. But my experience has been that I’ve packed far too much gear on way too many trips.

Since purchasing the iPhone 15 Pro Max, I board the plane with a carry-on that slides under the seat, and with my backup that slides into my front pocket. It’s a beautiful tandem.