Mobile Photography Essentials for Travelers: Capturing Memorable Moments on the Go
Today in the digital age, our smartphones have changed the game and we are able to snap pictures on the fly and share them instantly from wherever around the world, that is if you have battery power.
Thanks to the high-quality cameras and plethora of photo editing apps on our smartphones, mobile photography is an easily accessible and versatile way for travelers to document their adventures.
Today we are going to walk through ideas & tricks for shooting amazing photos and videos from iOS/Android smartphones while traveling.
Understanding Your Smartphone Camera:
Know Your Camera Features:
Get to know the camera of your smartphone as well, what are the resolution settings, HDR mode and manual controls if any. You need to have an insight into the features, which in turn will help you employ your camera in a better manner.
Experiment with Camera Apps:
Use third party camera apps which adds to more features and controls than the stock camera app. Consider apps that offer manual settings for exposure, focus, and white balance features.
Composition Tips for Mobile Photography:
Rule of Thirds:
Use the rule of thirds, you can move certain objects so they align with those gridlines/intersections to create a harmonious image.
Fill the Frame:
Fill the frame and purposefully fill it by using subject that you know well enough to get close to and remove distractions. Keep in mind this technique and use it next time when you need to grab attention of the viewer on your subject by contributing you some compelling photos.
Use Leading Lines:
Find lines in the world around you, be it roads, bridges or fences and use those to direct your viewer through the image while adding another facet to your compositions.
Lighting Techniques for Mobile Photography:
Natural Light is Key:
If you can, use natural light instead of artificial because it can make the colors and textures in your photos pop. Golden hour/ shade to avoid the midday sun.
Experiment with Exposure:
Simply use exposure compensation to adjust the settings for different types of lighting or tap to focus and expose. There is the minimum of what we call a naked image in terms to not have the highlights always so hard sharp and that the shadows do not miss too much information.
Editing Basics for Mobile Photos:
Choose Editing Apps Wisely:
Research photo editing apps on the app stores of your smartphone and choose from those that provide intuitive interfaces as well as a broad selection of editing tools. Popular choices are easily Snapseed, Adobe Lightroom Mobile and VSCO.
Enhance Colors and Contrast:
Edit the photo to increase the contrast of your photo, change saturation level and also modify levels individually. You have to be careful not to over edit and keeping the final image looking natural.
Experiment with Filters and Presets:
You will also be able to utilize filters and presets for direct creative effects and stylization on your photos. This being said, use them carefully & to reinforce a point in line with your image, not to be seen above it.
Tips for Mobile Videography:
Stabilize Your Shots:
When shooting videos with a smartphone, stabilize it using a tripod or handheld stabilizer, or brace your elbows into your body. The video piece you want to make probably needs smooth, steady footage.
Mind Your Composition:
Use composition rules like rule of thirds, leading lines for visually appealing video sequences The process of moving from one part of the frame to another or one side of a room or space to the next is how you make viewer feel that they are a part of your film.
Capture Authentic Moments:
Use the camera on your phone to take spontaneous videos of the journey and its moments and feelings. Also, do not over-direct or stage scenes; allow the beauty of where you are shine through.
Conclusion:
Mornings like this convince me that mobile photography, and videography is a godsend for any traveler who would like to share their adventures with the world.
You will be able to take amazing photos and videos that capture sight, sound, emotions on your travels using the camera of your smartphone as a medium which can feel like you are zapping the viewers along with you.
Then go out, pick up that phone and begin to document your next travel adventure one frame at a time!
