Top 7 Best Smartphones for Photography in 2025 That Capture Photos Like a DSLR Level

Top 7 Best Smartphones for Photography in 2025 That Capture Photos Like a DSLR Level

If you’ve ever found yourself fumbling with a DSLR camera and a smartphone, wondering whether it’s worth lugging around all that gear just for a few stunning shots, you’re not alone. The truth is, smartphone cameras have come a long way. In 2025, they’re not just for selfies and quick snaps; they’re legitimate contenders for professional-grade photography.

From ultra-wide lenses to telephoto zoom and AI-powered enhancements, the best smartphones out there today can create images that rival high-end DSLRs. But which ones stand out for photography? We’ve rounded up the top 7 smartphones that are redefining mobile photography each one packing pro-level features. Ready for some jaw-dropping shots? Let’s dive into it.

7. Xiaomi 15 Ultra – Best for Versatile Photography

Image Credit: Gemini AI

The Xiaomi 15 Ultra is a powerhouse in mobile photography. With a Leica-branded camera system and a fantastic 1-inch main sensor, it’s capable of capturing rich, detailed photos across its various lenses. The addition of a 200MP telephoto sensor makes zooming in a breeze without sacrificing quality. Whether you're shooting landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra delivers stellar performance. However, its hefty price tag might be a dealbreaker for some.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 50MP f/1.63 (1-inch sensor)

• Ultra-wide: 50MP f/2.2

• Telephoto: 50MP f/1.8 (3x) + 200MP f/2.6 (4.3x zoom)

• Selfie: 32MP f/2.0

• Battery: 5410mAh

Pros:

• Incredible Leica-branded camera system

• 200MP telephoto sensor for detailed zoom

• Excellent RAW shooting and pro mode features

• 8K video recording

Cons:

• Expensive for most users

• No autofocus on the selfie camera

• Availability might be limited in some markets

Best For: Professional photographers looking for versatility in a smartphone camera.

6. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 – Best Foldable Camera Phone

Image Credit: Gemini AI

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 defies expectations for a foldable device. With a massive 200MP main camera, this phone offers incredible detail and clarity, rivaling even traditional DSLRs. The Fold 7’s ability to transform into a mini tablet with an expansive inner screen makes it an ideal tool for photo editing, providing a canvas as large as an iPad mini. It's perfect for those who want the best of both worlds—foldable convenience and DSLR-like photography.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 200MP f/1.7

• Ultra-wide: 12MP f/2.2

• Telephoto: 10MP f/2.4 (3X zoom)

• Selfie: 10MP f/2.2

Pros:

• 200MP main sensor with stunning detail

• Large internal display perfect for editing photos

• Top-tier camera AI tools for photo enhancements

Cons:

• 3X zoom, not as powerful as some competitors

• Foldable design makes it bulky for everyday use

• Best For: People who love foldable phones and want high-end camera performance.

5. Google Pixel 10 Pro XL – Best AI Camera

Image Credit: Gemini AI

Google’s Pixel 10 Pro XL continues to push boundaries with its advanced AI photography features. The AI-powered Camera Coach helps users improve their photography skills by offering real-time tips and adjustments. The 50MP main sensor, along with two additional 48MP cameras, ensures high-quality shots, especially when shooting portraits. While its AI capabilities might be a bit slow, the end results are often stunning.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 50MP f/1.7

• Superzoom: 48MP f/2.8 (5X)

• Ultra-wide: 48MP f/1.7

• Selfie: 42MP f/2.2

Pros:

• AI Camera Coach improves photography skills

• Excellent portrait shots with realistic blur effects

• Great digital zoom results

Cons:

• Some lag with advanced settings

• Slower Tensor G5 processor impacts performance

Best For: AI enthusiasts and users who want guidance in photography.

4. OnePlus 13 – Best for Action Shots

Image Credit: Gemini AI

The OnePlus 13 shines when it comes to fast-paced action photography. Thanks to its collaboration with Hasselblad, the OnePlus 13 can freeze motion with remarkable clarity. Whether you’re shooting sports or fast-moving subjects, the camera’s burst mode ensures no blur. The vibrant, sharp results in portrait and landscape shots make this a fantastic all-rounder for capturing life on the go.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 50MP f/1.6

• Telephoto: 50MP f/2.6 (3X zoom)

• Ultra-wide: 50MP f/2.0 (120˚)

• Selfie: 32MP f/2.4

Pros:

• Superior action shot capabilities with burst mode

• Hasselblad tuning for professional-looking portraits

• Sharp, detailed images even in fast motion

Cons:

• AI enhancements can be too aggressive at times

• Color and white balance issues on occasion

Best For: Action photographers and sports enthusiasts.

3. Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra – Best for Versatility

Image Credit: Gemini AI

The Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra offers top-tier features across all aspects of photography. With a 200MP main sensor, a 50MP ultra-wide, and a 10MP telephoto lens, it provides the perfect mix of wide shots, zoom, and close-ups. This phone excels in every category, making it perfect for photographers who need versatility and a range of options. Its wide dynamic range makes it a standout for all types of photography, from portraits to landscapes.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 200MP f/1.7

• Ultra-wide: 50MP f/1.9

• Telephoto: 10MP f/2.4 (3X zoom)

• Selfie: 12MP f/2.2

Pros:

• Wide dynamic range across lenses

• Incredible detail from the 200MP sensor

• Versatile shooting modes

Cons:

• Photos can be oversaturated at times

• Higher price point

Best For: Users looking for versatility and top-tier image quality.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra – Best for Influencers

Image Credit: Gemini AI

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a dream for influencers and content creators. Its 200MP main sensor delivers dramatic, vibrant photos that stand out on social media. Whether you're capturing sunsets or food, the colors pop, and the detail is phenomenal. The camera offers great flexibility with a 50MP superzoom and a 10MP telephoto lens, and it produces images that are perfect for sharing.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 200MP f/1.7

• Superzoom: 50MP f/3.4 (5X zoom)

• Telephoto: 10MP f/2.4 (3X zoom)

• Ultra-wide: 50MP f/1.9

• Selfie: 12MP f/2.2

Pros:

• Bold, vibrant, social media-ready photos

• Excellent zoom and ultra-wide options

• Great for influencers and content creators

Cons:

• Over-sharpening in the background

• Photos can sometimes be overly saturated

• Best For: Influencers and photographers who want to wow their followers.

1. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max – The Best Camera Phone of 2025

Image Credit: Gemini AI

When it comes to overall camera quality, the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max reigns supreme in 2025. It combines incredible detail, balanced colors, and smooth video recording that makes it the go-to phone for professional-grade photography and videography. The 48MP main sensor, combined with the 48MP superzoom and ultra-wide lenses, ensures that you'll capture high-quality images no matter the scenario. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is also the best video recording smartphone, offering unparalleled smoothness in 4K video capture.

Specifications:

• Main Camera: 48MP f/1.8

• Superzoom: 48MP f/2.8 (4X+ telephoto)

• Ultra-wide: 48MP f/2.2

• Selfie: 18MP f/1.9

Pros:

• Best video recording performance

• Consistent, realistic photos with lifelike colors

• Excellent battery life

Cons:

• Limited zoom capabilities

• Lacks some creative modes available on other phones

Best For: Photographers and videographers who need the best all-around phone for every situation.

Are Smartphone Cameras Really DSLR Replacements?

When it comes to replacing DSLRs with smartphones, the debate hinges on weighing both the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Where Smartphones Shine

Smartphones bring several advantages over traditional DSLRs:

• Portability and Convenience: The best camera is the one you have with you. Smartphones are compact and lightweight, making it easy to capture high-quality images without the hassle of carrying bulky gear.

• Instant Editing and Sharing: Thanks to real-time AI processing, images can be quickly edited and shared, eliminating the need for tedious file transfers or hours of post-processing.

• Computational Photography: Features like night mode, portrait mode, and HDR harness AI and multiple exposures to produce stunning results that would be hard to replicate with a single shot on a DSLR.

• Reliability in Any Condition: Smartphone cameras consistently deliver great results in various settings, even for those without much technical know-how.

• While smartphones offer fantastic features and ease of use, DSLRs still have an edge in certain areas, especially for professional photographers requiring advanced control and top-tier image quality.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this post is based on publicly available details and reviews as of 2025. Specifications, features, and prices may vary by region or be subject to updates. We recommend checking official sources or retailers for the most accurate and up-to-date information before purchasing.