With their new weekly magazine dedicated to smartphone photography, FLTR, the British Journal of Photography has placed a bet on modernity. Designed exclusively for the iPhone, the magazine’s designer and journalist Olivier Laurent reviews the latest camera accessories and apps, interviews professional and amateur photographers, and offers in-depth analysis of developments in the world of smartphones.
“The iPhone has transformed and democratised photography – turning all of us into potential photographers. It is estimated that more than 880 billion images will be taken over the next 12 months, and smartphones will play a leading role in the production and distribution of these images,” says Laurent. “FLTR is designed specifically to offer a new breed of photographers a weekly dose of authoritative content and advice to help them take their photography to the next level, while also chronicling the massive changes we’re experiencing, thanks to the ubiquitous nature of the smartphone.”
The first five issues of FLTR feature articles on several appealing themes, including how the New York Times Magazine looks for inspiration on Instagram, how to take good pictures with smartphones in low light, and how one can sell smartphone photographs. The highlights of the first issue are an article by Fred Ritchin discussing the impact of smartphones during events like September 11, and a wonderful interview with Instagram photographer Théara Kam, whose work appears in a portfolio that nimbly blends genres. “I believe [smartphones] are revolutionizing the entire field more than any technology has done in 150 years,” says Laurent.
With the birth of FLTR, we can examine the medium and its established traditions, and begin to accept that smartphone photography is a tool like any other, as some photojournalists have already done, like Michael Christopher Brown, who often uses his iPhone in combat situations, or New York Times photo director Kathy Ryan, who has posted her daily inspirations online for over a year.
FLTR can be downloaded from the App Store for .99 cents (.79 euros) with monthly and annual subscriptions also available. FLTR is a legitimate, full-fledged photo magazine for a general audience.
