The iPhone’s photo-editing tools are good, but these apps make your photos even better

Apple's iPhone boasts impressive built-in photo-editing tools within its Photos app, but third-party apps take mobile image manipulation to a whole new level. Photographer and iPhone expert Craig Grannell shares his top picks for expanding the capabilities of your handset's camera.

Photomator, offering automated fixes and upscaling, is Grannell's favorite tool. Trained on over 20 million professional photographs, this app delivers remarkable results with a simple one-tap fix button. However, the true power lies in its granular controls and advanced noise-reduction and upscaling features, which surpass what standard Photos provides. Grannell notes that a subscription model has recently taken its 'lifetime' unlock feature, but the app remains a valuable asset for photo enhancement.

Obscura Studio provides an accessible entry point for those seeking to go beyond Apple's Photos. This app offers a polished suite of filters, sliders, and controls, allowing users to fine-tune their images without getting overwhelmed. The curves tool and selective color adjustments give you precise control over individual hues. With a risk-free trial and the option to pay only when you want to save your edits, Obscura Studio strikes a balance between power and user-friendliness.

Snapseed, a free app that every iPhone photographer should have, is Grannell's go-to for quick fixes and text addition. Although its interface may seem unconventional at first, it quickly becomes intuitive after a few sessions. Users can rely on Snapseed's adjustment tools and powerful text feature, which surpasses many paid applications. While there are specialized apps for creative effects, Snapseed's versatility and non-destructive editing make it a must-have for any iPhone user.

SKRWT, aimed at correcting perspective distortion and lens issues, is a simple yet effective solution for photographers dealing with skewed buildings and warped lines. This app, available for $1.99/£1.99, offers perspective and lens correction tools that Photos lacks. SKRWT's minimalist approach, reminiscent of earlier specialized apps, continues to make it a favorite among iPhone photographers for its straightforward yet effective perspective fixes.

Lastly, Hipstamatic Classic takes editing to a new creative level with its film effects. While VSCO and Dehancer are popular choices for film emulation, Hipstamatic Classic remains Grannell's preferred option. This app adds a playful touch to your photos with its one-off in-app purchases, making it a standout choice for those looking to experiment with nostalgic, film-inspired aesthetics.