Use what you got!


You might be surprised to hear me say this… but your phone can take pretty amazing photos!

They’re no substitution for a professional of course, but you can’t hire a pro for everything. So, I put together 5 simple tips to help you take better photos with just your phone. No fancy equipment required!

Three generations walking together on a sandy beach at sunset with the ocean in the background.

One: Use Natural Light: Trust me, nothing beats the glow of natural light.

🚨Important! Position yourself so that the light is hitting your subject from the front or side.


Two: Understand Shutter Speed in Low Light: Ever noticed your photos aren't very sharp in low light? That's because your phone's shutter speed slows down to let in more light, causing motion blur if you or your subject moves. Keeping your phone steady or using more light can help!


Three - Focus, Focus, Focus: Tap on your screen where you want the camera to focus. It makes a world of difference in sharpness.


Four - Explore Different Angles: Don't just shoot from eye level. Try different angles for a unique perspective that can turn a good photo into a great one! PRO TIP: Most people take photos too zoomed in, try showing more of the scenery/background when it makes sense 


Bare feet in a white lace dress stand on sandy beach with footprints in the sand.
A small child wearing a white shirt and blue shorts holds hands with someone while walking on a sandy beach.
Two children held upside down by adults while playing and laughing at the beach on a sunny day.

Five - Rule of Thirds: Imagine your image is divided into nine equal segments. Place the main subject at the intersections of these lines. Most smartphones have a grid feature that you can enable.


BONUS TIP: Edit, But Don’t Overdo It: A little adjustment to brightness or contrast is okay, but don't go overboard. The natural look is often the best look!

 

Now, grab your phone, try these tips, and see the magic unfold! I promise, it's not as complicated as it might seem. You'll be amazed at what your phone can do with a little guidance.


Shannon