Taking better pictures with your phone
Today we look at taking better pictures with your phone.
With a few non-technical tips, you can use your phone to take stunning photos.
Lighting
The best photographers, and even painters, always strive to ‘capture the light’ in their works. One way to do this: take photos during the Golden Hour—one hour before sunset, and one hour after sunrise. These times can add magic to your photos.
Flash
Avoid using the flash whenever possible, especially at night. If the best lighting isn’t readily available, then don’t take the picture. Instead, try to find better lighting, then take your shot.
Composition
Look for interesting angles. Does the shot look better from below? Above? Try getting closer to your subject, or even farther away. Use the Rule of Thirds to create dramatic compositions.
HDR Mode
If your phone supports HDR, use it. HDR stands for High Dynamic Range. This setting will tone down the brightest whites, and give softness to the darkest blacks.
No Digital Zoom
Avoid zooming in to take a photo, as it will degrade the quality. Instead, try to get closer and frame your photo as you want it to come out.
Keep The Camera Still
If you’re taking photos in low-light situations, you run the risk of a blurry photo if your hand moves or shakes. To remedy this, set the camera on a hard surface to stabilize it, then find the angle and composition, and take the shot.
Take Multiple Photos
One great thing about digital photography: you can take as many photos as your storage will allow. This is a professional photographer’s trick. When taking your photo, make slight movements to the right or left, closer or farther away. Then, when reviewing your photos, one of them will strike you as the best shot.
Editing
A lot of what happens in professional photography takes place at the editing phase. Even with the phone, you can make small edits that make a big difference. Look for the ‘Auto’ enhance button, and press it. This simple edit can work wonders.
As always, Happy designing!
About Jon Hébert
I’m a former newspaper editor, radio DJ, art director, and rock n’ roll front man who ventured into graphic design as a hobby. After receiving my art and design degree from LSU, I worked at several marketing firms before opening Jon Hébert Creative in 2003. I’ve since helped hundreds of clients with their graphic design, digital strategy, storytelling, and more. I’m also a musician and writer.
Created without the use of AI.
