Smartphone photography has become an essential skill in our visually-driven world. At iCRA, we believe that capturing stunning images can significantly enhance our communication efforts and showcase the impactful work we do. The same can apply to you and your organisation! This guide will help you elevate your smartphone photography skills, ensuring that your photos are not only beautiful but also effective in conveying the essence of your mission.
9 Tips to boost your photography skills:
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Clean your lens
Before you start snapping away, always clean your phone camera lens. Smudges, fingerprints, and dust can significantly degrade the quality of your photos. Use a soft cloth to gently wipe the lens.
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Keep the eye level perspective
When taking a picture of someone, hold the camera at the person’s eye level. This perspective creates a connection between the subject and the viewer.
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Use grid lines for better composition
Most smartphones have a grid line feature that helps with the composition of your shots. The grid lines divide the screen into nine parts following the rule of thirds. Place your subject along these lines or at their intersections to create a balanced and interesting photo.
- Android: Go to Settings > Apps > Camera, and select “Grid Lines.”
- iOS: Go to Settings > Camera, and enable “Grid.”
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Learn the “Rule of Thirds”
The rule of thirds involves dividing your shot into three equal parts both vertically and horizontally. Place your subject off-center to make your photo more dynamic and engaging. This technique will help you balance your main subject with negative space in your shot to nail an effective photographic composition that will draw the viewer’s eye.
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Master light usage
Natural light can significantly enhance your photos. Avoid using your phone’s flashlight as it can create harsh and unflattering lighting. Instead, position yourself so that natural light illuminates your subject from the side or from behind you. This will create a more even and natural look, highlighting the subject’s features beautifully.
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Utilize leading lines
Leading lines guide the viewer’s eye towards the main subject of the photo. They can be straight or curvilinear, like staircases, roads, or rivers. Use them to add depth and focus to your images. This technique creates a sense of journey and movement within the frame, making your photos more compelling.
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Focus on human connections
Aim to feature individuals prominently in your photos, capturing spontaneous moments rather than staged shots. For example, if you work in an organisation like iCRA, then try to showcase people collaborating, brainstorming and communicating. These moments convey authenticity and human connection, making your photos more relatable and engaging.
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Practice makes perfect!
The more you do it, the more it gets ingrained into your head! Take every opportunity to practice your photography skills, experiment with different techniques, ask for feedback and review your photos to see what works and what doesn’t. Over time, you will develop your own style and become more proficient in capturing stunning images.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering smartphone photography and creating compelling images that tell your organization’s story effectively. Happy snapping!
