Taking great photographs through your smartphone lenses

Taking great photographs through your smartphone lenses
As mobile devices become equipped with powerful camera features and lenses, it is not surprising to know that mobile photography continues to blossom. Research released by Mitek System showed that one in every three Millenials surveyed in the United States wants to communicate to others by snapping mobile photos. The study also revealed that the increasing number of smartphone ownership has also paved the way to this trend.

Evan Blackwell of walsworthyearbooks.com discussed the basics about exploring the world of iPhoneography, where he provided helpful insights on how to get started on this new endeavor as well as the apps that can help beginners. Please, checkout their blog. In this article, we want to assist those serious mobile photographers in providing more in depth tips on how to capture great pictures through their smartphones.

Understand the capability and weaknesses of your device
To avoid disappointments when taking snaps over your gadget, start by understanding the complexity of your chosen gadget. Not all mobile devices are the same. It’s best to understand completely the camera features of your handset, especially its lens and added cam functions. The latest devices, such as the Samsung Galaxy S6, come with more powerful lenses than the previously released smartphones on the market. According to O2, it comes with 16-megapixel back camera with a 5-megapixel front snapper. One of its great features is the “quick launch camera with fast tracking autofocus.” It also has an aperture of F1.9 that registers clear image even in low light condition. Compared to its predecessor and its biggest competitor (iPhone 6) that both have F2.2 cam, it has a wider aperture allowing more natural light to enter the lens, producing clearer images even on a dark setting.

Always return to the ‘Rule of Thirds’
One of the most popular professional photography terms you might have encountered will be the ‘Rule of Thirds’ – but, what is it exactly? It is a term used to define the process of framing a subject into a photograph, by dividing the frame into nine equal squares then positioning the subject into those lines. Dummies.com has provided a step by step in applying the rule of thirds in the a digital photograph for those who are beginners in this process. It will also be beneficial to consider adjusting your images with the help of photo-editing applications or by transferring your files into your computer for a more comprehensive editing using your image-editing software.

Make sure to capture moments
To add more drama and human-interest on your photos, look for an interesting moment to capture using your device. At times, you will encounter a breathtaking location with a perfect amount of light and a picturesque scenery, yet nothing is happening. Still life images are rampant nowadays, especially on photo sharing sites such as Instagram. Instead, locate anything that will complement your chosen backdrop, like a passerby when taking a snap of a street art wall. Balance the moving subject as it peaks in action before taking the snap. Always be mindful of any movement when composing a balanced moment image. Remember to show a story and some emotions in every snap.

In addition, consider changing your perspectives in each photograph by taking snaps from different angles and viewpoints to make it more interesting. It will help to get down on the ground or climb a tree to get the perfect bird’s eye view. If you’re taking a picture to show small details, then get close to the subject, while going wide and away will produce more context to a big subject like a place.

Dare to go black and white
Nothing beats the old black and white photographs, even in this digital age. Too much effect and colors often overshadow the subject. Based on iPhone Photography School, “B&W photos allow other aspects of the image to take center stage,” such as the tone, texture, as well as qualities of lights. It’s best to shoot first in color before converting it in black and white, as you acquire most of the details as well as render more accurate gray tones. How does it affect your overall output?
1. Maximizes your backlighting and silhouette on grayscale
2. Creates an impact on the story and essence of your image
3. Avoids poorly-exposed photographs with too much noise
4. Eradicate competing and unattractive color combinations

Although these tips are highly helpful to those who prefer using their devices over SLR, nothing beats the professional equipment. However, with the prevalence and convenience brought by smartphones and other mobile devices, most would prefer using these devices over the former. What other professional mobile photography tips can you offer our readers?

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