June 29th is National Camera Day! It commemorates photographs as living memory and the camera in all its forms. To celebrate, we wanted to share with you some of our top smartphone photography tips and tricks to take great snaps on the go.
1. TRY OUT DIFFERENT ANGLES
Most people who see an opportunity for a shot will click and go. But our first photography tip is to take a moment to try out different angles with your camera.
Taking an image from below can create an interesting focal point from the subject of the shot, such as a building or structure. Taking an image from above can bring out the details of a subject. Both can bring interest to the otherwise mundane.
Play around with the angles of your shot and the position of your phone’s camera to see what you can achieve.
2. GET UP CLOSE TO THE DETAIL
The detail you can achieve on your smartphone is astounding and easily competes with a DSLR. Getting up close to the details around you is a wonderful way to create engaging shots, whether of nature or the man-made. When considering your shot, it is worth taking a moment to see what is around you. Are the changes in light, texture, or colour fascinating?
Many smartphone cameras have a close-up lens available in the camera settings. You could also invest in a clip-on macro lens to really focus on the details of a subject.
3. USE REFLECTIONS
Using the reflections around you - whether water, mirrors, or windows – is a simple but very effective way to add interest to your photography. Photographing a subject from the reflection in a puddle can transform your shot while adding extra depth and mood. Placing your smartphone camera next to a window can create a fascinating mirror image. And, if it is a dry day, make your own reflection by pouring some water on the ground in an ideal spot.
4. Think about lighting
Lighting is the most critical factor in photography; getting this right can make a massive difference to your snaps. Consider how you can use the natural light around you for your shots.
To create interesting shadows, you can photograph into the light (yes, this is allowed—just don’t stare directly at the sun!), or to bring out the clarity of a face or the detail of a subject make sure that the sun is behind the camera.
If the light level is low, such as at night or on a dull day, play around with your phone camera’s exposure settings to capture more light. You could also go out and photograph in the hour before sunset, known as the golden hour. The sunlight at this time produces a golden hue, making for beautiful skies and gold-drenched surroundings.
Find out more
If you want to learn more about how best to use your smartphone camera, why not join us for a smartphone safari? We run group, 1:1 and family sessions nationwide, in West Ireland and in the South of France. Find out more by clicking below.