I really want to get into all the nuts and bolts of the camera on your mobile phone or tablet, but I really should start with the basics. What do you really know about your camera? Have you tried more than taking basic shots to be posted on social media? Today’s mobile cameras offer so much more capability than in the past. If you haven’t explored it, perhaps it’s time you do.
First things first. Find out how to access the camera on your mobile device. For most phones and tablets, it’s usually on the main screen. If it’s not, you might consider moving it there, just to have it readily accessible. You would hate to miss a shot because you were looking for the camera icon in a sea of apps, right?
Just like with a “real” camera, you need to have a clean and clear lens. Make sure that if you have a case, that it isn’t blocking the lens. Then make sure the lens isn’t covered in fingerprints or dirt. In other words, wipe it off. This is true for either lens.
Next, think of the light. Is there enough? Is the light in the right place? As a rule, you want the light to be behind you, and shining on your subject, but rules are sometimes made to be broken. If you want a silhouette, as an example, then the light would be behind your subject. Although the on-board flash can be harsh, sometimes it is great for illuminating your subject when the light isn’t cooperating. As an example, if you’re taking a photo on a person in front of a sunset, if you don’t turn on the flash, then they will be a silhouette. Using the flash in that case, will illuminate your foreground, and even the lighting out in the shot. Although the flash can be a useful tool from a distance, sometimes, it can be too harsh up close, and can darken everything around them.
Do you know how to zoom in on your subject? Usually zooming in involves spreading your fingers on the screen. if you aren’t use to it, practice. Sometimes it is beneficial in framing your shot or getting closer into your subject, but sometimes it may be better to crop after the shot, especially if zooming takes away too much light to be able for your camera to focus.
Before I get into more details, I challenge you to find the controls for your camera. Become familiar with the options. Know what modes your camera has. And most importantly, get comfortable with your camera. Take lots of pictures. You can always delete them. 🙂
Will be back with more. Happy shooting!