[zamadatix]

> Perhaps we’re witnessing a fundamental change in how photography functions socially. The democratisation of image-making through phones has made everyone comfortable with being both behind and in front of cameras, but only within specific, socially agreed parameters. Step outside those parameters with “serious” equipment, and you’re suddenly operating in a different social reality entirely.

I think this is the part which gets closest to trying to explain any of the "why". To me, the largest portion seems to come down to most everyone having used a phone for personal photos in the last 20 years and very few have ever used a phone for professional photos (partly because most are not professionals, partly because if they were they tend to like "real" cameras). Framed from the perspective of professional cameras, most people stopped using cameras for personal photos unless they happen to be professionals or enthusiasts.

This creates a very strong association with "phone = personal/throwaway photo, camera = formal photo for wide consumption". Naturally, this is not universally always true. One can be using a professional camera for personal photos of their girlfriend and one can take a selfie at starbucks and have a million social media readers see it. While not universally true, I bet even the author would overwhelmingly make the same assumption if asked to bet money on the intent of random photographer setups while walking through town. People are just making the same assumption when they see him at Starbucks with a professional camera.