Smartphone Photography Tips

Use Correct Image Format

Help ensure that any images are captured in the best, most common formats. This will reduce compatibility issues and loss of detail.

• All images should be submitted in .JPG or .PNG format.
• Horizontal pictures (turn your phone on its side) are preferred.
• Use the highest quality setting on your phone to capture the most detail.

Take Time to Focus

Usually, photos are out of focus, blurry, or too light or dark simply because we don’t slow down and take a little extra time.

• Pro Tip: Use your exposure and focus locks. On most smartphones, like iPhones, you can tap your screen to focus on a certain area or subject. If you hold your finger to the screen for a few seconds it will lock the focus and exposure on that area and you will be able to hold that exposure/focus if you move.
• Pro Tip: Don’t zoom. Never use the zoom feature on your phone. (Your legs are your zoom!)

Avoid Backlighting 

Position yourself so the light source is in front of the subject to prevent them from appearing as silhouettes. In a group setting, this may not always be possible, but should always be done whenever possible.

Shoot Extras

To end up with a quality photo, keep shooting and get several different angles. Some pictures may come out blurry or out of focus, so it’s always good to have multiple to choose from.

Always shoot video horizontally (turn your phone on its side).

1. Settings:
   • File Types: Use .MP4, .MOV, .MPEG, or AVCHD to ensure compatibility and quality.
   • Resolution: Use the highest resolution available on your camera. Use 4k when possible, but never less than 1080p.
   • Frame Rate: 30 frames per second is standard for most videos.
2. Focus: Ensure the subject is in focus before recording. 
3. Zoom: Avoid zooming in and out during recording, as it can create motion sickness.
4. Video Length: For most clips, 10-20 seconds is long enough to capture a moment.