With so many digital filter options for iPhone, implementing an attachable filter into your iPhone photography or filmmaking begs the question: why?

Before we discuss the benefits of an attachable filter vs. a digital filter, let’s talk about why filters or post-shoot editing are necessary.

A RAW image, or ProRaw for iPhone users, is captured without any editing. Editing with a program or using filters helps to extract more of the full potential an image has.

iPhone cameras can capture a lot of detail, but harsh lighting or unwanted shadows can hinder an image’s overall quality. Filters provide in-frame editing on the spot and help to elevate an image, creating better quality.


The example below shows the impact the SANDMARC Drama Filter for iPhone can make on a photo:

Attachable filter or digital filter? That is the question. Both hold creative value, but if you desire to grow more in your iPhone photography or filmmaking, here are three reasons why you should opt for attachable filters.

The iPhone’s camera is an optical lens, becoming digital once the zoom exceeds 5x. For optimal camera quality, it is best to stick with the optical lens. If you want to achieve high optical zoom, check out the SANDMARC Telephoto 6x lens.

To further elevate the optical lens quality, you can place an attachable filter. A digital filter can hinder the quality of the iPhone camera, whereas an attachable filter creates a more authentic look. It allows you to stay consistent with a camera technique that is similar to a DSLR camera.

The bottom line is that apps drain your iPhone battery. If you are shooting and have your camera ready with an app filter open, it can drain your battery quickly.

From capturing a shot to the downtime in between shots, an app will use up your iPhone battery. Luckily, with an attachable filter, there is no issue of draining the battery since it doesn’t need any battery to function properly.

Each SANDMARC filter can easily be clipped onto the iPhone camera or used with SANDMARC iPhone Cases using a Step-up Ring.

Many digital filters can alter facial features, creating an unnatural look. In contrast, an attachable filter offers editing capabilities that amplify rather than completely alter a person's features.

Skin smoothening, reducing surface glare or brightening colors are more complex editing techniques that an attachable filter can perform instantly.

The Retro Filter adds a dreamy glow to images while offering additional edits.

Notice the white circles to see the differences between the 'before' and 'after' images. In the 'after' image, the letters have a subtle glow, the glare on her sunglasses is gone, and her skin appears smoother, enhancing her natural features. The Retro Filter adds a vintage aesthetic to images which is perfect for a vintage photoshoot.

Attaching filters to your iPhone camera is sure to enhance your images and videos with a high-quality flair. Each SANDMARC filter is compatible with SANDMARC lenses, offering even more creative freedom. With SANDMARC gear, your iPhone camera can capture the high-quality content you dream of.