These animations never get in the way, and they make the whole app feel fluid and lively."

To change either, you just tap on the control and slide your finger on the pop-up control.

In the case of Obscura, it’s not just powerful but delightful.

Three iPhones in a row, all showing the Obscura camera ap

Obscura Camera App.Obscura / Ben McCarthy

It’s both fun and great, with an easy-to-use design.

Why bother when the built-in camera app already produces great snaps automatically and without extra cost?

Most of the time, an automatic snap is enough.

Three more iPhones in a row, all showing the Obscura camera ap

Obscura Camera App.Obscura / Ben McCarthy

But sometimes, you want to take control.

Or you may want to slow the shutter speed so moving objects blur.

Usually, if you want full control of your photos, you would use a regular, purpose-built camera.

iPhine and iPad on a black background, showing the Halide app

Halide App.Halide

Third-party camera apps bridge this gap.

They offer more control and extra features.

And an app is a lot cheaper than a new camera.