Flying without FPV or an app helps develop a certain aerial photography skill set.
I think that's exactly where I'm coming from. I already have that skill set and naturally want to fly by just looking at the bird and not have my nose in an app. It's not just about the "29 seconds" it takes to put on the tablet, connect the cable, start the app, make sure other apps aren't running, etc. I actually enjoy the freedom (yes, and quickness) you can do a short flight without a tablet.
As noted, I don't ever do this for longer flights and usually never venture more than a few hundred feet away. I do appreciate the orientation and telemetry provided by the app, I just don't need it for a quick selfie off a canyon ledge.
Still amazed this elicits "wow" from people in this forum.