We all want that once in a lifetime quick snapshot to be as perfect as it can be. So, how can you do that when all you have is your Smartphone camera? EASILY!
First things first, step up your smartphone photography and upgrade to a third-party camera app. I was amazed at what a difference it made in the quality of my pictures.
Not sure which one? I’ve done a lot of research and experimenting with several different third-party camera apps and found a few that are awesome! See my recommendations here.
Next, these simple tips to common problems will help you take your smartphone photography skills to the next level.
1 – Keep a Clean Lens
PROBLEM: I have had everything from peanut butter to dog slobber hit my lens. Many times, I have taken a picture just to find out my lens is dirty. Ugh!
SOLVED: I forced myself to make a habit to clean my camera lens every time I pick up my phone. A simple swipe with any cloth (even the shirt you’re wearing) will do the trick. Now, it is always ready in a jiffy for that whip out and snap shot.
iPhone 7 Native Camera App
2 – Never Use the Front Facing Lens
PROBLEM: We have all taken a “selfie” at one point or another. Now, again I stress that I’m not a pro; but, my selfies hardly ever turn out that great. Even with editing, I couldn’t get a good quality picture.
SOLVED: As a rule of thumb, never use the front-facing lens (this is the lens where you can see yourself). It has a lower resolution and generally produces lower quality pictures. Have a friend take the picture for you. You will be pleased in the long run.
3 – Skip the Zoom
PROBLEM: Everyone loves a close-up shot and every camera app is equipped with a zoom feature. No YAY to that. Unfortunately, the digital zoom function on your smartphone camera will only add distortion and blur to your pictures.
SOLVED: So, to get that crisp picture take a step or two closer and skip the zoom. You can always crop it later.
Focus App for iPhone
4 – Make the Most of Light
PROBLEM: The main weakness of most smartphone cameras is the inability to take good pictures in low light. Using the built-in flash on your smartphone is not a good alternative. I’m sure you have a picture on your phone that shows a horrible picture you have taken with the flash.
SOLVED: Move your subject directly so the light is facing or above them. Open a window and let the natural light in. If these are not possible, have a friend turn the flashlight on their camera to give you a “spotlight” on your subject. If you are outside, take pictures in open shade or right before sundown.
5 – Use a Different Angle
PROBLEM: My pictures all look the same. I always focused on the same type of face shot. So, I have a countless number of the same pictures. Just in different clothes!
SOLVED: Get on the ground or get on a chair. Squat, crouch, kneel, or jump. Just get creative! Find a unique angle or a different view. Take a face shot looking at it from the side. It’s a beautiful picture!
Moment App for iPhone
6 – The Rule of Thirds
PROBLEM: This wasn’t a problem until I found out it was! My natural instinct when I get ready to take a picture is to line up my subject in the center.
SOLVED: I took an online beginners photography class and they really focused on how the rule of thirds can increase the look of your pictures. At first, I thought that was crazy. But, what I’ve learned that, in most cases, centering an object sets your picture off balance. When I started applying the rule of thirds, it made a huge difference in my pictures! Of course, it may not apply in some situations; but for the most part, it will certainly make your pictures more eye catching.
So, how do you use the rule of thirds? Check your camera app settings to turn on gridlines (don’t worry, they do not show up in the picture). These are 2 horizontal and 2 vertical lines, making 9 equally sized boxes. Line up the subject of your picture along the lines or at the points where they meet.
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