For example, you might use an archway or window as a frame for your subject. Taking the photo so that the subject is within the archway or window, either in the foreground or background, will help emphasize the photo. You can also use people as a frame. Once you’ve picked your central focus, frame your shot so that the subject is surrounded by people from all sides. You can also emphasize your focus by using the rule of thirds. This is when you divide your shot into 3 vertical sections and 3 horizontal sections and then take the shot with your focal point in the center of this grid. It’s both pleasing to the eye and easy to incorporate into your technique.
For example, if you are outdoors, figure out where the sun is and observe how it is casting light on your subject. Consider what angle might be the most flattering or interesting for photographing your subject. If possible, shoot an hour after sunrise or before sunset to get some really dynamic light. Avoid taking pictures with the light source directly behind you. This can make your photos look somewhat boring and flat. Instead, always try to position yourself so that you are shooting your subject at an angle relative to the light. Side-light is typically ideal.
Turning on more lights. Telling your subjects to look away from the camera. Turning on the red-eye function. Most digital cameras and newer smartphones have this feature and it can help to prevent red-eye shots using editing software after the fact.
For example, you might take a picture of someone standing on a beach, but photograph the person from far away with a seashell in the foreground. Or, you might photograph the person from a closer vantage point, but capture a seemingly endless white beach in the background. If you want to blur out the background a little bit and make your shot more interesting, lower the aperture (or f-stop). This will concentrate the depth of field on your subject.
For example, if you took your first shot while standing 10 feet (3. 0 m) away, then take the next one from 5 feet (1. 5 m) away. Keep checking your shots and adjusting your distance until you have captured the desired amount of detail in your shot. Toy around with the angle you’re shooting at to find something dynamic and interesting that suits the subject.
The flash can also bounce off of certain types of makeup, making a strange shimmer effect that doesn’t look very natural. Natural light is the best light source, especially for phone cameras, to make you or your subject look flattering. Look for locations on your subject where the light creates unique contrasts or highlights. This is often where the best photos can be taken.
For example, if you’re taking a nature shot, choose one mountain or plant to be the focal point. Or, if you’re taking a selfie, stand in front of a solid-colored background. When you take photos of other people, try to blur the background so the person in the foreground stands out. If you’re using a smartphone, try switching to “Portrait Mode” to do this automatically.
Shifting your weight to your back foot will bring the majority of your body back and away from the camera while extending your front leg towards the foreground. This gives the illusion of height and length in your body, while still looking natural. This can feel funny at first, so try practicing it in the mirror a few times before you use it in a photo.
If you can, try taking pictures during “golden hour,” or when the sun starts to set. Try taking a couple of selfies in a row so you have a few to choose from when it comes time to upload them.
Instagram is one of the most popular social media sites for photos. Thinking about how your pictures look on this particular social media platform can be helpful in gaining followers, website clicks, and sales. Watch your compositions when you’re shooting so that you don’t need to crop too much in editing.
It’s always better to take a quality photo in the beginning so you don’t have to do as much editing later on. If you would like to add a filter, try using FaceTune, AfterLight, or the filtering effects on Instagram.
You can always lower the resolution after you take the photo if you need the file to be smaller, but you can’t increase the resolution later.
You could use poster paper, a wooden table, a solid-colored rug, a solid-colored sweater, or even a solid-colored wall.
White poster paper can make a good background in a pinch. Too many props can make the customer uncertain as to what item you’re selling.
Even if you’re selling an item with a back that will be hidden, you should give your customers an idea of what it will look like.
If you need to, you can crop your photos after you take them so your item fills the frame.
For example, if you’re photographing jewelry, try sprinkling some rose petals in the shot. Or, if you’re selling a blanket, drape it over the back of a couch. For wall art, try hanging it on the wall next to framed photographs or posters.
If your photos come out poorly focused or poorly exposed, then start operating certain functions manually. On smartphones, you can leave the HDR, or high dynamic range, on auto as well. This will adjust your photos in real time for the best exposure real-timeing.
Some older smartphone models may not have this option, so you can play around with your camera and figure out what options you do have.
This lens is perfect for photographing wildlife, since you can get up close without having to be physically near your subject.
You might consider getting a low-cost tripod to start out with. You can also get mini-tripods that adjust so that you can place them on table tops and photograph from lower angles. If you take a lot of selfies, consider getting a selfie stick.
