The Changing Device Ecosystem

I’ve been watching the technology landscape shift considerably over the past year, and I’m noticing something significant happening in the tablet market. As manufacturers develop innovative new devices—from foldable phones to laptops with touch capabilities—many photographers are asking themselves an important question: where does the traditional tablet fit in our creative toolkit?

This isn’t necessarily bad news. In fact, it’s an opportunity for us to think more critically about which tools actually serve our photography practice best.

Why Tablets Have Mattered for Photographers

For years, I’ve recommended tablets to photography students and professionals for several key reasons:

  1. Portable editing platform — A tablet offers substantial screen real estate while remaining lightweight enough to carry on location shoots
  2. Client review tool — The larger display makes it ideal for showing portfolio work or getting feedback in the field
  3. Reference material — Photography inspiration, reference images, and tutorials are easily accessible
  4. RAW file management — Many tablets can handle photo organization and basic adjustments

Adapting to New Possibilities

Rather than seeing this as tablets declining in importance, I view it as an evolution. Foldable phones and touch-enabled laptops present interesting new workflows worth exploring.

A foldable iPhone, for instance, could theoretically give us a larger screen for reviewing shots without replacing our primary camera device. Meanwhile, touchscreen laptops might streamline the editing process for photographers who prefer desktop-level software like Lightroom or Capture One.

My Perspective

Here’s what I’m encouraging you to consider: assess your actual needs rather than defaulting to whatever device seemed popular last year. Ask yourself these questions:

  1. Do you primarily edit on the go, or at a stationary workspace?
  2. What software does your photography workflow genuinely require?
  3. How important is screen size versus portability for your specific practice?

The “best” device is ultimately the one that removes friction from your creative process. Whether that’s an iPad, a foldable phone, a touchscreen laptop, or some combination of devices depends entirely on how you work.

Rather than mourning potential changes to the tablet market, I suggest we stay curious about how emerging technology might enhance our photography. The tools will evolve—but good creative practices remain timeless.