Who knew the world would evolve to the place where everyone would carry a camera on them all the time? Having quality cameras on our smartphones means we can record almost every aspect of our lives. That’s great in this digital age.
But there are some occasions that need more than the photos a smartphone can offer. Weddings, engagements, end of season team photos, graduations, family portraits and lots of other milestones need a cut above. Moments like these only come around once, so capturing the perfect photos is needed.
You always have the option of hiring a professional photographer to capture these moments. However, if you have budget constraints, this is not always a practical option. Rates can run nearly $200 an hour on average but can be a lot more. Let’s talk about how you can do a DIY photoshoot and get custom frame worthy photos using the latest smartphones.
Guide to Successful DIY Photoshoots
A professional photographer has their own skillset and knowledge that gives them their value. Their expertise and experience are valuable when it comes to capturing special memories and moments. But not everyone has the money to afford this option.
When it comes to DIY photoshoots, you can have your cake and eat it too! You don’t have to miss out on great photos when you go the DIY route. In fact, you may be able to save yourself lots of dollars. Using your smartphone, you can achieve the perfect DIY photoshoot. The biggest challenge may be in finding the best place to start.
Smartphone Camera Settings Adjustments
Most up-to-date smartphones adjust camera settings automatically. But to make sure that you can capture the perfect shot, you’ll need to know how to adjust some settings on your own. Here are a few tips for making useful adjustments.
- Gridlines Feature. Turning on the gridlines feature helps you create more balanced photos. The feature splits images into a three-by-three grid. This allows you to adjust your positioning so you can make the shot look more dynamic.
- Exposure Settings. Adjusting your exposure settings manually can help give you a more professional quality shot.
- Focus Settings. Most smartphones let you set the focal point in an image by tapping the screen on the object you want focused on, such as someone’s face.
Choosing the Right Backdrops
The backdrop can make or break a photo. It makes a huge difference between a photo you scroll by on your phone or a custom frame-worthy image. Start choosing the best backdrop by thinking about the theme you want and whether you’ll want an indoor or outdoor shoot.
If you stay indoors, a blank wall can be useful to make the subject stand out. A charming furniture piece can be used to frame a stationary shot. Too much clutter in your background can make the shot look too busy and it can be distracting.
If you are heading outdoors for your DIY photoshoot, a wall can bring some character and a scenic landscape like a field, or a park can add interest to your shots. You can also experiment with various angles like setting up below or above your subject.
Avoid elements that can take away from your photo like trashcans, passerbys, and cars that can ruin the shot. Both Android and Apple phones have editing tools that can help you remove items later.
Get the Light Right
Whenever you can, use natural light. This will ensure your images look as good as possible. Natural light is usually the most flattering and provides lots of versatility. Scheduling a photoshoot right before sunset lets you make use of the softest sunlight. This is called the “golden hour.”
If your DIY photoshoot is indoors, stay away from artificial lighting, which can be too harsh. Also remember to position yourself so that your phone isn’t pointed directly at a light source. This helps prevent shadows or highlights that can be distracting. You can experiment with different angles to find the best camera position.
Pick Your Poses
Before you start taking pictures, think about how poses may affect the composition of your shot. Think about the “rule of thirds” and how the shot can remain symmetrical. Position your subjects away from the background to create depth, if you want. You may want to try a few shots with your subject in motion. This can often produce some candid moments. But be careful to avoid them moving too fast as that can blur the photo.
The poses you choose depends on the nature of the photoshoot. However, a good rule of thumb is to try numerous angles and shots. Have the subject tile their head, hold an item in their hands, or bend their legs. Just make sure you are creating interest without any awkward-looking stances.
Edit Your Photos
Once you are satisfied with your DIY photoshoot, use your phone to make any adjustments you like. For example, cropping the photo can improve its composition, or it can remove unwanted elements. You can also adjust the contrast, brightness, exposure, and saturation to make the feel of the image just right.
You can sharpen or soften the image to get the effect you desire. As well as adjust colors to make them pop. Take time to experiment with your edits, then save them to your camera roll.
Custom-Framing DIY Photos
Once you have the photos you want, you have lots of options. You can save them on your phone or share them on social media. However, the best way to preserve the best of the best is to print and then custom frame them. This provides you with longer lasting joy. Over time, if you really enjoy your DIY photoshoots, add to your collection and create a gallery wall of your absolute favorites.
Contact Suburban Frames in Atlanta to learn more about custom framing your favorite DIY photoshoot photos.