Maximizing the Potential of the iPhone 15 Pro Camera - Configuration, Application, and Enhancement

I recently upgraded from the iPhone 12 to the iPhone 15 Pro (not Max) for its improved camera capabilities. However, I have been disappointed with the performance of the iPhone 15 Pro’s camera so far. Unlike my previous iPhones, this camera seems more complicated to use and has not produced the same quality shots.

I have been searching for resources to help me set up and use the iPhone 15 Pro camera in different shooting situations, as well as how to work with RAW files in post-processing applications like Lightroom, Photoshop, and Topaz. While Apple provides some basic information on their website, it hasn’t been very helpful. I have also been watching YouTube tutorials and visiting various websites, but it has been difficult to find exactly what I need. Most online courses on iPhone 15 Pro camera setup and post-processing are too basic and don’t cover the specific topics I’m interested in.

One area where I’m struggling is with portrait photography. Whenever I zoom in or out, I notice edge distortion, which I believe is caused by the powerful zoom function associated with the wide-angle lens on the iPhone 15 Pro. I would like to know how to avoid this distortion.

In general, I have found that the shots taken with my older iPhones look sharper, clearer, and closer to true color compared to those taken with the iPhone 15 Pro. While I understand that practice is key, I expected better results from the newer model.

I recently tried post-processing my first set of iPhone 15 Pro shots taken in RAW format. However, I ran into some issues. Firstly, the files were copied to my Windows computer as DNG files instead of RAW files, which means I can only see thumbnails until I import them into Lightroom. Secondly, when working with iPhone pictures in Lightroom, I have noticed that less is more when it comes to adjustments. Subtle changes in Lightroom, minimal noise reduction, minimal sharpness, and masking, and occasional use of Photoshop produce the best results for me. I have also learned that using Topaz tends to make iPhone shots look artificial with lots of artifacts. Additionally, imported iPhone DNGs behave differently in Lightroom compared to standard RAW files from my mirrorless camera. Deleting files in Lightroom or in exported Windows folders creates warnings and issues, forcing me to restore all deleted files to access the good ones for final export as JPGs. This is a major departure from my usual Lightroom processing routine and is time-consuming and inefficient. I’m sure there is a better process for managing iPhone DNG files, but I need guidance on this matter.

In summary, I’m in need of guidance and resources to help me understand and make the most of my iPhone 15 Pro camera. I would appreciate any advice, links, or contacts that could assist me in properly setting up the camera, adjusting settings for different shooting conditions, managing zoom, and effectively post-processing the images in Lightroom, Photoshop, and Topaz.