Do you want to take your smartphone photography to the next level? Then the following tips are just right for you. With a combination of technical tricks and creative ideas, you can take impressive photos. Let's go through this step-by-step guide together.
Key insights
- Manually set the display brightness to improve image quality.
- Photograph in RAW format for more flexibility in post-processing.
- Use the opportunity to photograph with a glass half under water to achieve creative images.
- Create blurred backgrounds to draw focus on your subject.
- Be mindful of the lighting conditions to avoid overexposure and harsh shadows.
Step-by-step guide
1. Manual display brightness for optimal image quality
To improve image quality when photographing with your smartphone, it is essential to manually regulate the display brightness. Many smartphones automatically adjust brightness, which can result in you seeing images darker or lighter than they actually are. You can avoid this by setting your display brightness to a fixed value. I recommend setting the brightness to 100%. This way, you can better assess the exposure of your image and ensure that your photos have the right brightness.
2. Photographing in RAW format
Another important point is photographing in RAW format. This gives you significantly more flexibility in post-processing your images. With modern smartphones, like iPhones and Android devices, photographing in RAW mode is no longer a problem. You can use the Lightroom Mobile app, for example, to easily shoot in RAW format. There, you can also utilize additional features, like adjusting brightness via a slider or using a timer. Try to use this feature to significantly expand your editing options.
3. Underwater photography with a glass
Have you ever photographed underwater with your smartphone? It may sound complicated, but it is only somewhat so. You just need a glass in which you place your smartphone. Then, dip the glass into the water, and you'll see that you can take impressive underwater photos, even if your smartphone is not waterproof. This technique allows you to create creative images that you can achieve without expensive underwater cases. Everyone has such a glass in their cupboard, so just give it a try!
4. Creating blur in the background
To make your portraits more appealing, a blur in the background is very helpful. While it is not as easy with smartphones as with professional DSLRs, it is still doable. If you own a model like the iPhone 7 Plus, you can create a software-based blur by using two lenses on the smartphone. Alternatively, you can use apps that add this feature in post-processing. The image will be edited so that the foreground remains sharp and the background is blurred, adding depth to the photo.
5. Lighting and the right time of day
A much neglected factor when photographing is the light source. You often experience overly bright vacation pictures, especially when photographing in bright sunlight. My advice is to photograph in the shade, especially for portraits. This avoids harsh shadows and overexposures that can make your subject look unflattering. The light in the shade is softer and flatters your photo. Alternatively, you can also position the sun behind your subject, but be careful that the background doesn't become too bright.
The conclusion of your smartphone photography
These tips will help you improve your smartphone photography and create more versatile, high-quality images. Gradually implement the techniques, and you will quickly notice progress in your photography skills.
— Tips for smartphone photography: RAW, blur, and underwater shots
Frequently asked questions
What is RAW format and why should I use it?RAW format stores more image information than JPEG, providing more flexibility in post-processing.
How can I blur the background with my smartphone?Use special apps or the dual-camera feature of your smartphone to make the background blurry.
How can I take underwater photos with my smartphone?Put your smartphone in a glass and dip it into the water to achieve creative underwater shots.
What brightness should I set for my smartphone?You should manually set the brightness to a fixed value, such as 100%, to optimize image quality.
How do I avoid harsh shadows in my images?It's best to photograph in the shade or ensure that the sun is behind your subject.
