Smartphone Photography 101: Take Good Pics on Android + iPhone

Smartphone Photography 101: Take Good Pics on Android + iPhone

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, smartphone photography opens up a world of artistic possibilities. With the right techniques and a bit of practice, you can snap incredible photos from the comfort of your pocket. This guide will give you the rundown of basics for shooting great photos on Android or iPhone.

Choosing Camera Settings

It’s important to adjust your settings to the environment and type of shot you’re trying to create. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Turn HDR (High Dynamic Range) Mode on for the best color and contrast. The photo will be slightly darker and slower to capture, but will have more details in light and dark areas.
• Switch to Grid Mode if you want to compose shots with the Rule of Thirds in mind. This will display a 3x3 grid on your camera screen, making it easier to frame a photo asymmetrically.
• Adjust image size if you plan to print your photos. Higher resolutions yield the best results, but also take up more storage space.

Composing the Shot

Creating the right composition for your photo requires you to study the elements of the scene. Here are some tips to help you compose amazing shots:

• Look for the light. Natural light creates the best photos, so avoid shooting directly into the sun.
• Think in thirds. When framing a photo, imagine dividing the screen into thirds horizontally and vertically. Try to arrange the photo's focus points along these lines.
• Get close. When shooting small objects like people or pets, it’s a good idea to zoom in and fill the frame. This gives your image more impact.
• Pay attention to the background. When taking a picture of an object, examine the environment behind it. Check out all the details in the general area and try objects that give the image a unique feel.

Editing Your Picture

Once you’ve snapped the perfect shot, it’s time to start editing. Most smartphones come with built-in photo editing apps, but you can also download an array of third-party apps as well. Here are a few tips for editing your photos:

• Adjust brightness and contrast for best color. Make sure your image isn’t too bright or too dark.
• Crop to eliminate unnecessary elements from the frame. This will sharpen the photo's focus.
• Use filters to manipulate the look and feel of the image. Keep these subtle to maintain the shot's natural appeal.
• Apply color gradients to give your photo a unique look. Experiment with different gradients until you find the look you’re going for.

Finishing Up

Finally, it’s time to save your image and share it with the world! Here are some tips for the finishing touches:

• Save a copy of your image to your phone’s photo library. This will ensure that you keep the original version of the photo and don’t lose any work due to editing apps.
• Share the image via social media. Tag your friends and family to inspire them to pick up their cameras.
• Print your images in a physical format. After all, there’s nothing like admiring a beautiful photo hanging on the wall.