Los Angeles on an iPhone 12 Pro Max

As a challenge, I decided to take out the Apple iPhone 12 Pro Max to photograph key Los Angeles iconic shots, just to see how they would compare to my pro-level cameras.

I was already a big fan of the new iPhone, but must admit I was blown away by the results.

The key is remembering where a phone like the iPhone is best used: in daytime, great lighting, up until Magic Hour just before and after sunset. After dark, it’s just not as good.

The Hollywood Sign shot takes advantage of the larger zoom on the iPhone 12 Pro Max, which is equivalent to 65mm on a pro camera.

The ultra-wide lens on the iPhone made the big yellow Rolls-Royce cooler than ever and let us see the palm trees splashed across the car.

Walt Disney Concert Hall, shot at Magic Hour on an iPhone 12 Pro Max.

The same Disney Hall shot about 30 minutes later, and looking totally different in the dark. This is a panorama image on the iPhone 12 Pro Max.

Finally, the iPhone does a great job with sunsets. Say goodnight Manhattan Beach.