When it comes to photography, being able to capture a special moment is not enough. You need to also invest in proper post-production equipment so that you can edit the beautiful moments. Adjusting exposures, shadows, highlights, fixing white balances and removing unwanted objects can make all the difference in your edited photos.
Technology has evolved, and editing has never been more portable and easy than it is now. Companies like Apple, Microsoft, and Samsung among others have continued to improve the screen resolution, graphics while enhancing the capability of the tablets to run most photo apps. This means that you can easily edit your photos while on the move without necessarily having to carry your laptop around.
Even with the benefits that you can get as a photographer using a tablet to edit your photos, choosing a tablet for editing isn’t as easy as most people think. Unlike someone buying a tablet for e-reading, there are certain factors that you have to consider such as the speed, specs, screen resolution and storage space for your editing apps. That’s why we have picked the best four tablets that you can buy to make your work easier.
1. iPad Pro 10.5
Introduction
The iPad Pro 10.5-inch is built for the professional photographer. It has amazing features that make it ideal for photo editing.
Pros
With a 10.5-inch Retina Display and a screen resolution of 1668 by 2224, this is one of the best tablets for most photographers and artists alike. You can comfortably use the tablet for 10 hours with just one charge and has a slim design which means it won’t take up a lot of space in your backpack or carrier bag.
For optimal sound, the tablet has four inbuilt speakers which means you can comfortably enjoy some music as you work. You can also use the tablet for alternative media consumption. While it may not be a laptop replacement for all photographers, it certainly is for those that prefer to get the job done while on the go.
The Apple app store also has lots of features with over a hundred different photo editing apps such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom that allows you to easily sync your work from your desktop or computer.
Cons
Apple Pencil and screen sold separately hence making it expensive.
2. Microsoft Surface Pro
Introduction
Microsoft is a tech giant in the industry and is known for producing quality gadgets and its no wonder the Microsoft Surface Pro features in our review list. The 2-in-1 device can be used as a laptop and as a tablet.
Pros
If you are torn between choosing a tablet or a laptop, then worry no more. And we mean it. The Microsoft Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 device that can be used either as a tablet or a laptop. The tablet has a sleek design and is also lightweight. With one single charge, the tablet can give you up to 13.5 hours of battery life which is significantly higher than its predecessor.
Thanks to the excellent screen resolution, you can edit and view your photos in superb quality. You can use the pen to adjust and make edits to your photos, making your editing fun and easy. You also have the optional keyboard and an integrated kickstand.
Microsoft calls it their “fastest Surface Pro ever” thanks to the Intel Core grade processor and their “lightest Surface Pro yet” weighing just about 1.69lbs. It’s a top pick for C-Suite executives, media personnel as well as creative professionals.
Cons
The Microsoft Surface Pen and Signature Type cover are sold separately adding to the already expensive cost of purchasing the tablet only.
3. Samsung Galaxy Tab S3
Introduction
If you love using an Android interface as compared to iOS or Windows, then the Samsung Galaxy Tablet S3 is fully equipped with all you need for your photography work.
Pros
With a 12-hour battery life and a screen resolution of 2048 by 1536 pixel display, you can comfortably view and edit your photos. It has a storage space of 32GB and RAM of 4GB. The best part is that it has a microSD card slot that allows up to 400GB of additional space.
This device has an HDR screen, comes with an S Pen Stylus that comes in handy especially when editing your photos and four speakers that sound just as great as the ones found on the iPad Pro tablets. You can also use the tablet for your own media consumption as well as video playback.
The S Pen is a lot more accurate and very pressure-responsive. Besides, you don’t need to charge it which gives you freedom when editing.
Cons
Keyboard sold separately making it a costly extra.
4. Samsung Galaxy Tab S4
Introduction
Being an upgrade from the Samsung Galaxy Tab S3, you can be sure that the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 boasts of some amazing features and some great improvements from its predecessor.
Pros
Just like its predecessor, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S4 comes with an S Pen included in the package. It has a large 10.5-inch screen that is ideal for both your editing and viewing needs. It also has a longer battery life compared to the S3 even though it will cost you more.
It comes with the Samsung DeX feature that allows you to transform the tablet into a PC and has superb mics that can allow you to customize your tablet and use voice command. Just like its predecessor, you can also benefit from the external storage.
Cons
The Desktop DeX interface is sluggish and can do with some upgrade.
Final Thoughts
Just as different photographers own different equipment depending on their line of work, the same isn’t different when it comes to investing in a tablet. There are of course common considerations that all photographers should have such as storage space, whether the tablet can run the photo editing apps they have as well as speed among others.
Ensure that before you purchase a tablet, you first note all your photography work needs. This way, you will be able to invest in a tablet that is suitable to your own needs.
