As the cameras on our phones advance with each release, photography enthusiasts and professionals alike can easily rely on their mobile devices to capture impressive DSLR quality photos. Many smartphone camera apps come with added features that rival some of the most cutting-edge digital cameras in the market.
However, even though your phone comes with a high-resolution camera, you may not be taking the best shots your phone is capable of. Ever wondered why the photos taken with your phone don’t quite have that “WOW” factor you see on Instagram? Well, it’s all down to the basics of phone photography. With these top seven tips, you’ll be an expert at the craft in no time
Disclaimer: This does not apply for the indestructible Nokia 3310
1. Learn the ways of your smartphone’s camera
To learn what your phone camera is capable of, first you must learn the features that come with it. From night mode to anti-blur, the capabilities of a modern smartphone camera are staggering. You can always begin learning the craft with training wheels by analysing the auto mode feature but to become a professional in photography, it is always recommended to learn your camera’s manual settings as it gives you control over the look of the photos. Play around with the features and have fun with it!
2. Apply composition techniques
Composition techniques in photography is a basic lesson taught in almost every photography class. Little do many amateur photographers know, applying these simple techniques can change your entire photography game. Composition techniques brings still images to life with a unique story behind each shot. Its not rocket science, something as simple as choosing subjects with complementary colours or isolating the subject with empty space can transform your photos from drab to fab. A key rule to keep in mind is that there are no rules (aside from the rule of third) in photography so flex those creative muscles and add a variety of composition techniques to your shots.
3. Editing is bettering
The idea of editing photos may sound challenging when it comes to learning how to use tricky editing software on your computer. But, thanks to our mobile devices and the many easy-to-use editing apps and settings that come with them, turning grainy shots into high-definition photos is just a click of a button away. Whether you decide to use a built-in editor or an advanced photo editing app on your phone, basic editing is an essential tip in professional photography. Go ahead and adjust aspects like the brightness, sharpness, and contrast of the photo to help it stand out. Photography is all about trial and error, if you don’t like how the finished edited version of the photo looks then begin again with a new perspective and a blank slate.
4 Avoiding zoom in
To avoid comprising the quality of the photo, get closer to your subject instead of using the zoom in feature. Zooming in to a subject result in low-quality, blurry, and grainy photos. When it comes to taking clear close-up shots, you should rather try an add-on lens which brings us to our next tip.
5. Accessorize with add-on lenses
With the advancement in technology of smartphone cameras, it is not surprising that they now come with add-on lenses. There is a wide range of add-on lens in the market, and it is important to know which one to pick based on your style of photography. While a wide-angle lens offers more versatility in your shots, a macro lens is great for those who enjoy getting up close and personal with the subject.
6. Choose natural lighting
The purpose of a flash is to illuminate the subject as well as the area around the subject but using a flash can also easily make your captivating shot look amateurish when not used at the right time and place. When it comes to phone photography, it is always best to use natural lighting to illuminate the scene. Even after dark, make use of the sources of natural light you can find. Natural lighting also has the power to set the mood of the shot, making it a fun component to play with.
7. Its all about angles
The quality of your shots can look more professional when angles come into play. As simple as it may seem, different angles hold different perspectives with each telling a contrasting story. Taking a shot from a high angle adds dynamism to the subject while a low angle shot emphasizes power and confidence. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different angles, even if it means getting down in the dirt.
Let us at the Academy of Design, Arts & Media (A.D.A.M) teach you the ways of photography. Learn more and become a professional photographer with our mobile phone photography course Singapore.