The advancements of smartphone cameras have grown leaps and bounds in the past years, making it much easier to take amazing photos. However, with the abundance of options and features, it can be overwhelming to know where to start.
For those looking to improve their smartphone photography game, here are 10 tips to help you take better photos with your phone.
- Use gridlines
The rule of thirds is a basic photography principle wherein an image is more balanced if you divide it into thirds horizontally and vertically, and place the subject along these lines and intersection points. Most smartphones have gridlines you can turn on to help you align your shots and create better compositions. - Experiment with angles
Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add depth and interest to your photos. Try taking photos from high or low angles, or shooting at an angle to add visual interest. You can also try turning your phone upside down when shooting for low angles. This can also help you break away from the traditional eye-level shots and create unique and interesting compositions. - Use good lighting
Good lighting is the key to taking great photos. Try to take photos in natural light or use a bright light source to add extra light if necessary. When taking photos indoors, try to position yourself near a window or use lamps to create a well-lit scene. Avoid using the flash, as this can result in a harsh, unflattering light. - Edit your photos
Editing your photos can make a big difference in their quality. Most smartphones come with basic editing features, such as cropping, brightness, and saturation adjustments. Or, you can use a third-party editing app for more advanced features, such as selective color adjustments, filters, and more. Be careful not over-edit your photos and keep the edits natural-looking. - Keep it simple
Simple photos often make the strongest impact. Try to keep the background of your shots uncluttered and focus on the main subject. This will help your subject stand out and create a stronger, more impactful image. - Pay attention to composition
Good composition can make or break a photo. Pay attention to the placement of your subject in the frame and how the different elements in the shot interact with each other. Think about how you want the eye to move through the image and guide the viewer’s attention to the most important parts of the scene.
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- Use the Rule of Odds
According to the rule of odds, odd-numbered groupings are more pleasing to the eye than even-numbered groupings. Try to group your subjects in threes or fives for a more balanced and visually appealing shot. This can also help create a sense of rhythm and movement in your images. - Use Portrait Mode
Most phones have a Portrait Mode or Aperture mode that allows you to adjust the focus and aperture to create a depth of field or a bokeh effect. Blurring the background simulates a shallow depth of field, which can help isolate your subject and draw attention to it. A deeper depth of field, on the other hand, can keep more of the scene in focus and add a sense of space and context to your shots. - Take advantage of Burst Mode
Burst mode allows you to take multiple photos in quick succession. This can be useful for action shots, or for capturing the perfect moment. When shooting in burst mode, keep the camera steady and follow the action, taking as many shots as necessary to get the shot you want. Be mindful of your storage space when using this mode. - Practice, practice, practice
As the saying goes, “practice makes perfect” and it’s especially true in photography. Practice what you’ve learned by taking as many photos as you can. The more you practice, the more you will improve your photography skills.
Image: Jordan McQueen (Unsplash)
