Being an amateur photographer used to require lots of fancy (read: expensive) equipment, but that’s certainly not the case today.
Your smartphone is more than capable of capturing inspiring photos if you know how to use it creatively. With the right techniques, you can take your photography skills to the next level and create stunning images that no one would ever know weren’t taken by a “proper” camera. Here are some good practices to follow if you want to get the most out of the images you snap with your phone.
1. Clean your lens for a clear shot.
It sounds simple, but a clean lens is the foundation of great photography. Our phones live in pockets, bags, and hands, so fingerprints and dust are inevitable. A smudged lens can leave your photos looking hazy or blurry, no matter how good your composition is. Before taking photos, quickly wipe your lens with a soft, clean cloth. Even a microfiber cloth from glasses cases works perfectly, especially because it ensures your shots are as sharp and clear as possible, setting you up for success before you even start snapping.
2. Understand basic composition techniques.
Good composition is what separates an average photo from a great one. Techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing can add depth and interest to your photos. Most phones have a grid feature you can enable, making it easier to align your shots with these principles. Experiment with placing your subject off-centre using the rule of thirds, or finding natural frames like doorways or tree branches to draw attention to your subject. These small adjustments can make your photos look more dynamic and professional.
3. Use natural light to your advantage.
Lighting is everything in photography, and natural light often produces the most flattering results. Early morning and late afternoon, known as golden hours, offer soft, warm light that’s perfect for capturing stunning photos without harsh shadows. If you’re shooting indoors, position your subject near a window to take advantage of diffused natural light. Avoid using your phone’s flash, as it can create harsh, unflattering light. Instead, focus on working with the light available to create a more natural and inspiring look.
4. Pay attention to your background.
A cluttered or distracting background can take the focus away from your subject. Before snapping a photo, take a moment to assess what’s behind your subject. Simplifying the background helps keep the viewer’s attention where it belongs. Look for plain walls, open skies, or blurred backgrounds to make your subject pop. On the flip side, you can use a background to tell a story if it complements your subject — just make sure it doesn’t overwhelm the photo.
5. Experiment with different perspectives.
Shooting from eye level is the default for most people, but changing your perspective can lead to more creative and inspiring shots. Crouch low, climb higher, or tilt your phone for unique angles that make your photos stand out. For example, shooting upward can make your subject look larger than life, while capturing a scene from above gives a fresh, bird’s-eye view. Don’t be afraid to move around and try unconventional angles — it’s often where the most interesting shots come from.
6. Master your phone’s camera settings.
Modern smartphones are packed with features, from portrait mode to manual settings like ISO, shutter speed, and white balance. Taking the time to explore these tools can help you create more intentional and professional-looking photos. For instance, use portrait mode for blurred backgrounds that highlight your subject or adjust exposure manually to control the brightness of your shot. Learning what your phone’s camera can do gives you greater creative control and opens up more possibilities for your photography.
7. Focus on one subject at a time.
Keeping your photos simple by focusing on a single subject often makes them more impactful. Too many elements in one frame can feel cluttered and confusing, while a well-isolated subject draws the viewer’s eye immediately. Tap on your phone screen to set the focus on your subject, ensuring it’s sharp and stands out. Whether it’s a person, a flower, or an interesting object, giving your subject room to breathe in the frame creates a more powerful image.
8. Use editing apps to enhance your photos.
Source: Unsplash Editing can take a good photo to the next level. Apps like Snapseed, Lightroom Mobile, or VSCO let you adjust brightness, contrast, saturation, and more. Simple edits can make colours pop, add mood, or correct minor flaws in your shot. Start with small adjustments to keep the image looking natural. Avoid over-editing, as this can make your photo look artificial. The goal is to enhance the existing beauty of your shot, not to completely change it.
9. Capture candid moments for authenticity.
Source: Unsplash Sometimes, the best photos aren’t staged or planned — they’re the ones that capture real emotions and genuine interactions. Candid shots feel natural and often tell a story better than posed pictures do. Keep your phone ready and observe your surroundings. Whether it’s a child laughing, a couple sharing a quiet moment, or a busy street scene, candid photos often convey a rawness and depth that makes them truly inspiring.
10. Practise patience and timing.
Great photos often come down to timing. Whether it’s waiting for the perfect light, a fleeting expression, or the right time in a bustling scene, patience can make all the difference. Rushing a shot can cause you to miss small but powerful details. If you’re photographing moving subjects or dynamic scenes, use burst mode to capture multiple shots and select the best one later. Sometimes, the most inspiring photos are the result of being in the right place at the right time — and waiting just a minute longer.
11. Use reflections and shadows creatively.
Reflections and shadows can add depth and intrigue to your photos, turning ordinary scenes into something artistic. Whether it’s capturing a reflection in a puddle or using long shadows during golden hour, these elements can create striking visuals. Experiment with framing and composition to play with light and reflections. Look for mirrors, water surfaces, or even shiny windows to incorporate unique elements into your shots. Shadows can add a layer of mystery or drama, elevating an otherwise simple photo.
12. Practise consistently and experiment often.
The key to improving your phone photography is consistent practice. The more you experiment with angles, lighting, and subjects, the more you’ll develop your own style and eye for inspiring images. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes — they’re often where the best lessons come from. Take your phone everywhere and challenge yourself to find beauty in everyday moments. Whether it’s capturing the light streaming through a window or an interesting street scene, practising regularly will help you see the world through a photographer’s lens.
