Since smartphones appeared, the art of photography has been somewhat stripped of its aura of mystery and has become significantly more accessible to the masses. In the era of automation, taking a good photo is no longer exceptionally difficult, especially with several lenses in a device you proudly carry in your pocket. 📱 Can we climb even higher in that case?
We don't usually deal with professional photography, but we are sure that our achievements on Instagram are very close to that level ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) Besides posting exceptional photos, our full-time job is to free unfortunate souls from the captivity of contracts with other operators. We are called Mobile Vikings and we are a community mobile operator that primarily aims for 100% crew satisfaction. Taking extravagant photos also fits into this plan, so here are a few tips (and of course apps) that will allow you to improve the quality of your shots. 💎 Even those taken by surprise! Let's start with the basics. How to take good photos with a smartphone?
Lens Cleanliness 🧼
We're talking about the basics here, right? ( ͡~ ͜ʖ ͡°) The fact that your phone is usually in your pocket and you're inseparable from it exposes it to many external factors, including standard ones like dust and dirt, or even a greasy index finger after intense shrimp consumption. 🦐 It's therefore worth paying attention to the clarity of the lens and wiping it with a microfiber cloth, or as a last resort, a piece of clothing.
Goodbye, Digital Zoom 🔎
We realize that a squirrel scurrying in the distance can be a tempting subject for a sweet photograph, just like the full moon. 🌕 However, as you've probably experienced firsthand and in your smartphone's photo library – reality quickly verifies the imagination of the perfect shot. In the end, any digital zoom will give you a grainy, low-resolution photo. 👾 We don't recommend it.
The Right Frame Above All 🖼️
The more advanced the smartphone, the more options that will do the work for you in selecting settings. When it comes to framing, it's also worth using the available options. Regardless of whether you use iOS or Android – in the settings, you'll find a function that allows you to enable grid lines. 🌐 From there, it's a simple path to maintaining perfect alignment – by sticking to the vertical and horizontal lines. Simple and useful.
Light, Camera, Smile 💡
The last part is, of course, unnecessary, but never underestimate the role of proper lighting if you want to take good photos with your smartphone. We wouldn't put all our hope in your smartphone's flash – consider that a last resort. The priority should be to look for natural light around you or to use the assistance of another smartphone that will act as a flashlight. 🔦
Steady Hands or Additional Equipment 👋
Taking photos on the go or after drinking a few cups of coffee is certainly not the best idea. Shaky hands won't help you capture the right moment. And even if the aforementioned factors aren't present – keeping a perfectly still position isn't easy, even with the steadiest grip and surgeon's hands. 👨⚕️ What can help? A portable mini-tripod is an option you should consider. STABILITY and quality photos – guaranteed.
Taking a Photo Is Not Everything
Once you've taken the perfect photos, it's worth checking out apps that can bring out even more from them:
- Instagram – you'd want to reply: thanks for the tip, Sherlock, but the app itself has many filters and options that you can fiddle with for long enough to achieve the desired effect. ✨
- Adobe Photoshop Express – if you don't feel like fraternizing with social media and want to have a proper photo editing tool, this is one of the options you should pay attention to. 🛠️
- Snapseed – similar to the above: many editing options to get the most out of your photos and adjust them to your liking. 🧰
- Foodie – the name practically gives it all away, so if you love taking pictures of what's on your plate right before you eat, this is the perfect app for you. It will bring out the maximum from a majestic shot of Silesian dumplings and red cabbage. 🥘
- TouchRetouch – unwanted people, background stars, indecent surrounding elements? This app will help you remove unwanted objects from your beautiful photo. ✂️
What are your practices for taking good photos with a smartphone? We don't accept answers like the newest smartphone, although we admit it's a big help. Let's assume as standard those actions that can be applied regardless of your budget depth. For example, with an average model up to 2000 PLN 💸 Additional tips are welcome!
