How to Take Better Photos with Your Phone from your South Florida Family Photographer / Videographer
Let’s be real - I’m a professional photographer, but I rarely pull out my “big camera” to capture photos of my own kid.
The truth is, my camera doesn’t make an appearance that often, and most of the time, I’m snapping pictures of my daughter on the go or when we’re out and about all around South Florida.
Over the years, I’ve picked up some tricks to get amazing, professional-looking shots using just my iPhone (and don’t worry, these tips work great for Android users too).
Here are my top 15 tips to help you take stunning photos with your phone!
Focus on Those Baby Blues (or Browns, or Greens...)
When snapping portraits, focus on the eyes for a shot that’s full of depth and emotion. Just tap on the screen where their eyes are to keep them in sharp focus. It’s a simple trick that can take your photos from “meh” to “wow”!
Lighting is Your BFF
Seriously, lighting can make or break your photo, no matter what you’re using to snap it! Want to avoid those blurry or grainy pics? More light is your answer.
Whether you’re inside or outside, position yourself with your back to the main light source (hello, window or sun!). Natural light is like that friend who always knows how to make you look good, so skip the artificial lights and head for the windows! And if you’re outside, the light in the morning or late evening is pure magic. Just avoid direct sunlight—it’s a bit too harsh, like the sun got a little too caffeinated.
Get Up Close and Personal
Instead of zooming in or cropping later (which basically gives your photo the quality of a 1990s flip phone), just move closer! Whether it’s your baby’s tiny fingers or that adorable little grin, getting up close captures all the sweet details that make your heart melt.
Embrace the Rule of Thirds
Imagine your photo divided into a tic-tac-toe grid. Now, place the important stuff along those lines or where they intersect. It’s like a cheat code for making your photos look more balanced and artsy—no fancy photography degree needed!
Candid Moments are Gold
Forget the “Say cheese!” moments. The best photos happen when your little one isn’t even looking at the camera. Catch them playing, giggling, or just exploring the world around them. It takes a bit of patience, but those unplanned shots often capture the most genuine emotions—and they’re way more fun to look back on!
Burst Mode is Your Secret Weapon
Kids are like tiny hurricanes—they’re always moving! Burst mode lets you take a bunch of photos in rapid succession, so you can pick the perfect one later. Trust me, it’s a lifesaver when you’re trying to catch that split-second smile or the exact moment they do something hilarious.
Play with Angles
Don’t be afraid to get creative! Shoot from above while your little one plays, get those chubby cheeks from the side, or even get down on their level. Different angles tell different stories, and who doesn’t love a good story? Plus, it’s a great excuse to see the world from your kiddo’s perspective.
Tell a Story with Your Photos
Before you snap away, think about the story you want to tell. A series of photos showing your baby playing with their favorite toy from different angles can be way more meaningful than a single shot. Plus, it’s a fun way to capture all the little details that make up their day!
Keep Backgrounds Simple (I Know, I Know...)
I get it—life with little ones is messy! But a cluttered background can take the focus off your adorable subject. Take a quick second to clear away any distractions before snapping the photo. A clean, simple background lets your baby be the star of the show.
Live Photos to the Rescue
Live Photos capture a little snippet of action before and after your shot. It’s like a mini movie, and you can pick the perfect frame later. This feature is a total game-changer when you’re trying to capture those fleeting moments. Plus, you can create cute video clips to share with the family!
Manually Adjust Exposure Like a Pro
Here’s a tip most people don’t know: when you tap to focus, a little sun icon appears. Slide your finger up or down to adjust the exposure, brightening or darkening the image as needed. It’s especially handy in tricky lighting situations and can help you get that perfect shot!
Use the Grid for Insta-Worthy Shots
Turn on the grid feature in your camera settings to help with composition. It’s super useful for following the rule of thirds and keeping your shots level. Plus, it’s like having a personal assistant who makes sure your photos are always on point!
HDR Mode is Your New Bestie
High Dynamic Range (HDR) mode helps capture all the details in both the bright and dark areas of your photo. It’s perfect for those high-contrast scenes where the lighting is all over the place. Just turn it on and let your phone do the heavy lifting!
Portrait Mode for Insta-Glam
Portrait mode isn’t just for snapping pics of people—it can add a touch of pro magic to photos of anything! Use it to capture your baby’s favorite toy, a cozy corner of the nursery, or those tiny toes. The depth effect makes your subject pop against a beautifully blurred background.
Timer Function: Get in the Frame!
You’d be surprised how many people don’t know about the timer function on their phone. It’s perfect for group shots or selfies with your little one. Set it for 3 or 10 seconds, then jump in the frame. No more awkward stretched-arm selfies—just cute, well-composed photos of you and your babe!
So there you have it: my top tips and tricks for capturing those moments of your little ones with just your phone! You don’t need fancy equipment to take beautiful photos that you’ll love. With a little creativity, some good lighting, and a few fun techniques, you can turn everyday moments into keepsake-worthy memories.
Remember, it’s not about perfection - it’s about capturing the love, laughter, and pure joy that fills your days. So go ahead, my South Florida mom! Grab your phone, and start practicing! And most importantly, have fun with it. These moments pass by so quickly, but with a few simple tips, you’ll have stunning photos to look back on and smile.