Samsung S26 Ultra Camera Review: Steven Divish Explores Pro Features in San Francisco

Samsung S26 Ultra Camera Review: Steven Divish Explores Pro Features in San Francisco

San Francisco is the kind of city that inspires photographers. The architecture, patterns of windows, and streets bustling with life create endless photo opportunities.

Tech YouTuber Steven Divish recently got his hands on the Samsung S26 Ultra immediately after the Samsung Unpacked event. While many were talking about the phone’s new privacy screen, Divish focused on camera improvements and real-world photography features that make the S26 Ultra stand out.

From backlit portraits to cinematic video capabilities, this phone offers features that rival professional cameras. Let’s dive into the highlights.

Samsung S26 Ultra's Manual Controls That Make a Difference

Advanced Photo Mode Settings

One of the first things Steven noticed was the new manual control options in the standard camera app:

  • Minimum shutter speed control – perfect for moving subjects in low light, reducing motion blur.

  • Maximum ISO limit – avoids excessive noise in night photography.

  • Manual white balance adjustment – fine-tune colors without switching to Pro mode.

Cold White Balance Vs Warm White Balance

These improvements give photographers more control while still keeping the convenience of auto mode, making every day shooting more creative and precise.

Samsung S26 Ultra Virtual Reflector for Backlit Portraits

Virtual Reflector on Samsung S26 Ultra

A standout feature is the Virtual Reflector in Expert RAW mode. Steven highlighted how it works like a professional reflector:

  • Adjust color and intensity of reflected light

  • Change the light’s direction on your subject

Virtual Reflector Off Vs On

This computational photography feature helps fix backlit portraits where subjects appear too dark. Instead of carrying physical reflectors, the phone simulates it digitally — a huge upgrade for outdoor photography.

Testing the 200MP Camera

The 200-megapixel mode on the S26 Ultra is a game-changer. Steven used it to capture San Francisco streets with precise, symmetrical framing using the built-in grid.

Snaps a portrait with 200 Megapixel Mode

Benefits of 200MP mode:

  • Extreme cropping flexibility

  • Telephoto-like detail without switching lenses

  • High-resolution shots for architecture and street photography

Cropping the 200MP Photo to 3x & 5x

Even small compositions from a single city block can yield multiple cinematic images.

Ultra-Wide Lens Perspectives

Sometimes the best shots come from simply looking up.

Steven tested the ultra-wide lens, capturing buildings and street patterns from unique angles. The results: cinematic compositions with dramatic symmetry that elevate ordinary cityscapes into stunning photographs.

Ultra Wide Angle Shot on S26 Ultra

Lesson: changing perspective often matters more than location.

S26 Ultra Cinematic Video Features

Video Shot on S26 Ultra at Log 4K

Samsung emphasizes that the S26 Ultra is a cinema-grade video phone. Steven tested:

  • Pro Video mode for full manual control

  • Ultra HD 30fps recording

  • HDR and Log options

  • Lens switching for creative framing

  • APV codec for near-lossless video

The Pro Video mode preserves detail, color, and dynamic range. With Log recording, creators can color-grade their footage professionally.

APV Codec for High-Quality Video

Using APV Codec on S26 Ultra

The APV codec reduces compression for maximum image quality. Steven noted:

  • Cleaner footage with minimal artifacts

  • More color information retained

  • Better flexibility in post-production

Paired with Log recording, the S26 Ultra produces professional-level video straight from a smartphone.

Using External Lenses on S26 Ultra

The S26 Ultra also supports thread-mounted external lenses. Pairing the Steven Divish x Freewell Anamorphic Lens with the phone’s Log recording, creating unique focal lengths and cinematic compression.

Combined with manual video controls, this setup transforms the smartphone into a near-professional filmmaking tool.

Shot on S26 Ultra with Steven Divish Anamorphic Lens

Final Thoughts

At first glance, the S26 Ultra might look like a minor upgrade from the S25 Ultra. But Steven Divish’s hands-on test proves otherwise.

Key camera highlights:

  • Virtual Reflector for backlit portraits

  • Minimum shutter speed & ISO limits in auto mode

  • 200MP main sensor for extreme detail

  • Ultra-wide lens for cinematic perspectives

  • Pro Video and Log recording

  • APV near-lossless codec

  • Adjustable microphone gain

  • Compatibility with external lenses

These features make the S26 Ultra one of the most creator-focused smartphones on the market.

Steven will continue testing the phone in New York, pushing its limits for both photography and filmmaking. Stay tuned for the next installment.

 

Source & Credit: Video and insights by Steven Divish.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What Are the Key Camera Upgrades?

The S26 Ultra introduces several notable improvements over the previous model, including:

  • 200MP main sensor for extreme detail

  • Virtual Reflector for backlit portraits

  • Manual ISO and shutter speed limits in auto mode

  • Pro Video mode with Log and APV codecs

  • Ultra-wide and telephoto lens improvements

  • Adjustable microphone gain

  • Support for external lenses

These upgrades make it a top choice for photography and filmmaking enthusiasts.

How Does the 200MP Mode Work?

The 200MP mode captures ultra-high-resolution images that can be heavily cropped without losing detail. It allows photographers to mimic telephoto shots, frame symmetrical compositions, and capture architectural patterns in stunning clarity.

What Is the Virtual Reflector?

The Virtual Reflector is a computational photography feature in Expert RAW mode. It simulates a professional reflector by bouncing light onto your subject, helping correct underexposed areas in backlit photos. Users can adjust color, intensity, and direction of reflected light.

Can I Shoot Cinema-Quality Videos?

Yes. The S26 Ultra supports Pro Video mode with:

  • Log recording for dynamic range preservation

  • HDR and APV near-lossless codec

  • Manual control of shutter speed, ISO, and lens selection

  • Adjustable microphone gain

With this setup, you can achieve professional-looking videos directly from your smartphone.

Are External Lenses Compatible with S26 Ultra?

Absolutely. With the Freewell Profilmmaker Case for S26 Ultra one can attach 17mm thread-mounted external lenses, allowing filmmakers to use specialized optics for unique focal lengths, lens compression, and cinematic effects, enhancing video quality even further.

Is Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra Phone Worth It for Creators?

For creators who prioritize photo and video quality, the S26 Ultra offers industry-leading features for both casual photography and professional filmmaking. From 200MP shots to cinematic video and advanced audio controls, it’s one of the most versatile phones available.

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