This article was published in Scientific American’s former blog network and reflects the views of the author, not necessarily those of Scientific American
Thrifty Thursdays feature photographs taken with equipment costing less than $500.
[iPhone 4S - $336]
On supporting science journalism
If you're enjoying this article, consider supporting our award-winning journalism by subscribing. By purchasing a subscription you are helping to ensure the future of impactful stories about the discoveries and ideas shaping our world today.
The best camera is the one you have with you, they say. And when I saw the afternoon sun filtering through this palmetto leaf in Gainesville's Austin Cary Forest last week I had to take a shot. Simple patterns in nature photograph well with any kind of equipment, and my cell phone did the trick.
Sunlit leaves are one of my favorite exercises for beginning students in my photography workshops. Since ambient light is abundant in these situations, even the most basic cameras are capable of dramatic captures when thoughtfully aimed.