These days, people love to take photos with their smartphones. Apart from the convenience the gadgets offer, smartphone cameras — even midrange Android phones — are getting better in terms of photography.
Most people now have image galleries filled with snapshots while traveling to exotic locations, or photos of family members, pets, and objects.
Smartphone cameras have some inherent strengths and weaknesses. However, these cameras can still capture cherished moments with the best shots.
One need not be a professional photographer to get the best out of a smartphone camera. A few tweaks to the settings and a handful of practical tips and tricks should help in taking the best shots.
Here are some tips to keep in mind before firing up the photo app from your favorite Android smartphone.
Clean The Lens
Simple tip but one that could make a big difference between an image destined to the image galleries and one to the bin. Before firing the shot, ensure the phone lens is clean!
The camera lens of the smartphone is susceptible to getting specks of dust, lint, and even fingerprints smudges. These can clearly ruin a perfect picture.
It is recommended to use a microfiber cloth for wiping but, if that's not available, then a clean cloth would do. If there are plans of extensive photoshoots with the smartphone, then it is handy to have a cleaning cloth.
Frame The Subject Properly
There are many techniques that can be used to improve the quality of the images. One of them is the Rule of Thirds, in other words, the technique of breaking down the image into nine squares and placing the subjects where the lines intersect.
Many prefer this technique as it allows for creating a well-balanced, well-structured and visually appealing photo, says Francis Navarro of Komando.
To adhere to the Rule of Thirds properly, the gridlines of the camera can be turned on with help of "Show grid in viewfinder."
Set The Focus Point
Most photographers using the smartphone often rely on the available lighting. Apart from improper focus, inadequate lighting can cause a blur or under exposure in photos.
One of the best ways to tackle the focus and exposure issue is by tapping the viewfinder and selecting the area of interest. The camera setting will automatically adjust the focus and exposure based on the area.
Another technique for resolving exposure issues is by making use of High Dynamic Range. HDR would take photos in rapid succession and at different exposures and merge them to create a single evenly exposed image. Some Android phones have the HDR option instantly available. In any case, the HDR option should be available in the camera settings.
Use The Best Resolution
Golden rule: Whenever a photo needs to be taken, select the maximum possible resolution. This will make the image as sharp as possible, and the user will have flexibility in editing, cropping, or zooming the photo.
Camera resolution can differ from smartphone to smartphone — an important aspect while purchasing the device. So, plan accordingly.
Stabilize Shots
Avoiding blur is important. Use both hands to operate the phone while taking the shot. Again, the fewer the movements, the crisper the image.
Take As Many (Insurance) Shots As Possible
To get the perfect photo, attempt as many shots as possible. Select the best from the bunch and then decide the angle.
Remember, a great photo is a great photo no matter what gear was used to take it. But the tips and tricks above will have you becoming an ace photographer with your trusted Android smartphone.
