Do you remember when filters became a thing for phone cameras? Suddenly everyone’s photos looked like they were trying to be part of an influencer campaign. But the same one? Because there were only so many filters to go around!
And while I fully believe that filters have their place, there is something to be said for capturing unfiltered beauty to share with the world. Wouldn’t you agree?
I know it can be hard to put down the filters—but these tips are bound to help make the transition easier!
Watch Your Exposure
On the iPhone, tap and hold where you’d like the focus to be, and then scroll on the screen to adjust the exposure. From here, you’ll see a ton of possibilities, from creating silhouettes to showcasing a dark detail. You can also try tapping within the focused object itself to adjust the exposure to that particular section, such as a sunset in a cityscape or the black fur of a dog’s coat.
Choose Your Time of Day
The best time to shoot anything is the popular “golden hour.” It happens about an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset. Of course, you can shoot whenever you want (after all, life unfolds when it wants to!) though I do recommend avoiding bright sun right around the lunch hour.
Consider Your Angle
The angle from which you take your photo is key to making it great! So while taking photos of subjects straight on tends to be popular, I’d encourage you to play with other interesting and intriguing angles that capture your subject in a more favorable way.
Find a Unique Backdrop
One of the fastest ways to make your phone photography pop? Think about the whole image. That means putting your subject in front of a texture or color that helps your phone camera separate the subject from the background, especially in portrait mode.
Stabilize
There is a certain technique to holding your phone in a way that captures clear photos. I even mention a few of them in my phone photography course! <link> But you could also use tools including a good phone tripod to ensure your raw phone photography comes out as crisp and clear as possible.
Ready to go out and shoot? Today I encourage you to practice a “no filter” approach. I’m sure you’ll surprise yourself!