A First In South Africa: GLAMOUR Shoots Their June Cover Using Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G

Conde Nast and Samsung create a powerful collaboration by shooting GLAMOUR’s first ever cover using a smartphone

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 09 June 2021 –  The recent GLAMOUR South Africa June cover is a testament to the rapid evolution of smartphone technology. A first for the publication saw inimitable photographer Austin Malema swap his traditional DSLR camera for Samsung’s internationally acclaimed Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G device, to capture the stunning Miss South Africa, Shudufhadzo Musida cover shoot in the latest edition of the popular magazine’s cover and fashion pages.

The cover of every GLAMOUR magazine is the culmination of a carefully considered vision. This is where stars shine in pictures expertly curated by the best photographers under the eagle-eyed direction of visionary editors. In the June issue, Miss South Africa dazzles on the cover. A fascinating component amongst this stellar cast of professionals is that a smartphone was used to shoot the covers. Less surprising is the choice: the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G. Samsung’s greatest Galaxy yet again took centre stage at the locations, armed with its array of ground-breaking camera technology.

Nontando Mposo editor-in-chief of South Africa’s leading fashion and beauty magazine, GLAMOUR says, “Yes we are a lifestyle, fashion and beauty publication, but we are also looking at disruptive innovations that are shaping the future. That’s why this collaboration with Samsung was a no-brainer for me”.

Beyond the dimensions of this special project with Samsung, the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G garnered a lot of praise from the Conde Nast team for the fastest processer in a Galaxy device, massive battery and the smartest and brightest screen in a Galaxy ever. On the shoot days, cover photographer Austin Malema used the combination of these incredible features, along with the acclaimed state-of-the-art prograde camera features to great effect.

The famed photographer was tasked to explore the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G’s range of camera technologies, that have attracted massive attention around the globe. Malema said, “I accepted the challenge as it tested my ability to embrace new technology in a meaningful way.  As someone who usually relies on traditional DSLR camera features, I considered the impact on my normal creative process and approach. I however soon realised that the Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G would be more than capable of producing images that effortlessly measured up to DSLR quality.”

Austin was impressed by the powerful quad-camera the Galaxy S21 5G Ultra features including a 108MP wide, 12MP ultra-wide, two 10MP zoom lenses, and a 40MP front camera. Malema continued, “Another big plus for me with shooting with the Galaxy S21 Ultra was that it is capable of shooting raw images and I knew that would be a big help. The Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G is armed with raw shooting skills with support for 12-bit raw files”. Pro photographers, who want the utmost control and quality from their images to capture a more dynamic range, meaning more detail in the highlights and shadows, normally use these files.

For Nontando, it was the Single-Take feature that captured her heart. Here’s why: “As an editor, I am always looking for the best angle and filter. Now I can have it all with one tap.  It’s a feature that allows you to capture a variety of stunning stills and highlight reels. What’s not to love”.

The combination of star power with creative minds and a smartphone that acts like it’s a photographer’s assistant are what have made the GLAMOUR feature so epic. So make sure you look out for GLAMOUR’s June Issue and see the Galaxy S21 Ultra 5G in action.