Phone lenses and filters are optical attachments that fit over a smartphone camera, including ND filters, polarising filters and lens kits. They suit mobile photographers and videographers who want more control over light and look than the built-in camera gives. Brands in our range are Freewell and PGYTECH.
How to choose phone lenses and filters
Filter or lens. Filters change how light reaches the sensor, while lenses change the field of view or the type of image. ND filters allow slower shutter speeds in bright light, and polarising (CPL) filters cut reflections and deepen skies. Wide-angle, macro and telephoto lenses suit different subjects, so decide what you shoot most often.
Mounting system. Clip-on, screw-in and magnetic mounts all exist. Magnetic systems make swapping between a filter and a lens quick, which helps when light changes during a shoot. Clip-ons are simple but can shift out of alignment, so check that the mount holds the glass centred over the lens.
Phone compatibility. Camera modules differ between phones, with different lens positions and sizes. Check that the attachment or its case is made for your exact model, or that the adapter suits your camera layout. Phones with several rear lenses need the attachment aligned with the lens you actually want to use.
Photo or video use. For video, ND filters help keep the shutter speed at roughly double the frame rate in daylight, which gives natural motion blur. For stills, a CPL filter is often the more useful first purchase for landscapes, water and glass. Variable ND filters save carrying several fixed strengths.
Glass quality and coatings. Optical glass with good coatings keeps colours neutral and reduces flare and ghosting. Cheap attachments can add a colour cast or soften the edges of the frame. Look for glass construction and multi-layer coatings in the product details.
Phone lens and filter brands we carry
- Freewell: known for modular magnetic filter and lens systems that cover phones, action cameras and drones, so one set of filter habits carries across devices. Most of the products in this category come from Freewell.
- PGYTECH: a photography accessories brand best known for camera bags, drone accessories and mobile shooting gear, with a smaller selection of phone lens and filter products here.
Frequently asked questions about phone lenses and filters
Do phone lens attachments improve photo quality?
They can, but only when the glass is good and the mount is aligned with the camera. Attachments add new perspectives such as wider or closer shots, and filters give control over light and reflections. Poor quality glass can reduce sharpness instead.
What does an ND filter do on a phone?
An ND filter reduces the amount of light entering the camera without changing colour. This lets you use a slower shutter speed in bright conditions, which is useful for smooth motion blur in video and for water or traffic shots. It also helps avoid overexposed highlights outdoors.
Will a phone filter fit any smartphone?
Not automatically. Fit depends on the mounting system and the position of the camera module. Magnetic and case-based systems are usually made for specific phone models, while clip-on versions are more flexible but need careful alignment.
Do I need a polarising filter for my phone?
A polarising filter is worth having if you shoot landscapes, water or scenes with glass and shiny surfaces. It reduces glare and reflections and makes skies and foliage look richer. For indoor or low light shooting it is less useful, because it also reduces the light reaching the sensor.
