5 tips for better cell phone photos
“The best camera to have is the one that’s with you all the time,” goes the adage.
Cell phone cameras have greatly evolved over the past five years, making it easier to capture memories wherever you go. Everyday tasks are now documented through photos on social media sites like Snapchat, Instagram and Facebook. While all smartphones have a camera, not all are created equal. Check out this list of the best cellphone cameras, which includes the Samsung Galaxy S8, iPhone 7 and Google Pixel.
No matter which phone you have, follow these five tips to impress with your photos, and no one needs to know they were “just” from your smartphone.
- Keep your phone close. You never know when inspiration will strike. When quickly pulling out your phone to capture a moment, a simple swipe “left” from your locked screen will reveal your camera app if you’re using an iPhone. Don’t let entering a passcode or scrolling through screens of apps cause you to miss that shot.
- Learn the basics. A simple tap on the screen will allow you to focus on an object, turn the flash on or off or switch from regular to selfie mode. While digital zoom capabilities improve with every generation of cell phone, know that capturing small details from great distances might require you to simply get closer to your object.
- Stabilize your shot. Hold your camera with both hands to make sure it’s steady. Did you know you can click an iPhone’s volume button to take a picture so you don’t have to tap the circle on your screen?
- Play with apps. These days, Instagram isn’t the only app to help spruce up your photos. If you’re looking to edit pictures, download Snapseed or VSCO. You can crop, adjust and rotate photos, as well as add a filter or edit the coloring. When it comes to taking better pictures, check out Pro HDR and Camera+. Both apps enhance your photos as you take them, so you don’t have to go back and edit them.
- Take the next step. If you’re looking for a little bit more flair from your iPhone, or other smartphone, camera, consider buying a lens attachment kit, like an Ollo Clip. You can get everything from a macro lens, telephoto lens or even a 4-in-1 lens set that simply clips on to your phone to take better photos.
Apple’s website is another great resource full of tips and quick videos to help you make the most of your iPhone camera. We’d love to see your best iPhone vacation shots. Share them with us on Facebook!