2020JAVSO..48...72B

In this article, I describe my experiences with a somewhat neglected method of variable star observation: smartphone images. I outline the potential of smartphone images as a tool for astronomy education and argue that they are a uniquely effective way to draw in beginner observers (especially younger observers, amongst whom high-level smartphone usage is ubiquitous). I describe my methods in collecting images of two variable stars (delta Cephei and beta Persei) with my smartphone, and how I used these data to make magnitude estimates and phase diagrams. I conclude with a note on the potential of smartphones as an educational tool, and outline some of the aspects that contribute to their appeal and usefulness.