Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro Max has taken center stage in a New York art exhibition, showcasing how powerful smartphone photography has become. Photographers Inez & Vinoodh, Mickalene Thomas, and Trunk Xu received early access to the device and used it to explore the theme of “joy”. Each artist presented five images at the exhibition, titled Joy in 3 Parts.
Power of the iPhone 17 Pro Max Camera
The iPhone 17 Pro Max features three 48-megapixel Fusion cameras: wide, ultra-wide, and telephoto. This setup allowed artists to capture detailed, high-quality shots in diverse settings. Mickalene Thomas photographed Black residents in Brooklyn’s Fort Greene Park, producing candid portraits that felt spontaneous and natural. She explained that the iPhone’s small size and simplicity made people more relaxed than when facing bulky professional cameras.
Meanwhile, Trunk Xu embraced social media culture in his work. He highlighted how the iPhone has transformed photography itself, making it easier to document everyday life with immediacy. “The iPhone has unlocked a profound joy: the ability to document the world as it is now,” Xu said.
A Contrast With Other Models
While the Pro Max shines, not every device in Apple’s latest lineup delivers the same punch. The iPhone Air, with its single rear camera, lags behind in photographic performance. Early buyers have noticed the difference, with preorders for the Air trailing those of the Pro Max.
Art Meets Technology
The exhibition illustrates Apple’s continued push to link creativity with technology. By giving renowned artists early access to the iPhone 17 Pro Max, Apple highlights how its flagship phone is more than a tool for communication — it’s a creative instrument that rivals professional cameras.
