A Masterclass in Smartphone Perspective

Capturing unique animal portraits often requires more than just high-end equipment; it requires the perfect combination of a curious subject and a creative lens choice. German photographer Marcel Ohneberger recently demonstrated this with his captivating giraffe portrait, which has earned an Honorable Mention in the 2026 iPhone Photography Awards (IPPAwards), a competition now in its 19th year.

The photograph features a giraffe leaning toward the camera, its head dominating the frame while its neck creates a dramatic curve that stretches into the distant savannah. The image was captured using an iPhone 13, utilizing the device’s 13mm-equivalent ultra-wide lens to create an intentional perspective distortion.


The Mechanics of the Shot

The photographer relied on the unique characteristics of ultra-wide-angle photography to achieve the look. By getting extremely close to the animal, Ohneberger utilized the lens's natural distortion to magnify the giraffe's nose and eye, while making the rest of its body appear smaller in the background. The technical settings were kept simple to maximize clarity:

  • Shutter speed: 1/720 sec
  • Aperture: f/2.4
  • ISO: 32

These settings, captured in bright daylight, ensured the image remained sharp and detailed without the need for artificial manipulation or heavy post-processing.


Patience Over Equipment

While the hardware played a role, the true success of the image lies in the photographer’s approach. According to Ohneberger, the process required significant patience and a calm demeanor to encourage the naturally curious giraffe to approach the handheld device. By positioning himself low and angling the phone upward, the photographer transformed a standard wildlife sighting into a humorous, character-driven portrait that highlights the giraffe's unique proportions.


Success at the IPPAwards

The 2026 IPPAwards competition saw thousands of submissions from over 140 countries. Other notable winners included Robyn Jensen of the Cayman Islands, who secured the Grand Prix Photographer of the Year title with an iPhone 15 Pro, and Gellert Gombai, who took home the Gold Award for a candid portrait.

Ohneberger's entry serves as a compelling reminder that professional-grade results are not solely dependent on the latest technology. By demonstrating that an older model like the iPhone 13 can yield award-winning work through timing and perspective, the photograph highlights the importance of the artist's vision over the complexity of their gear.