Before the days of smartphones, taking a great photo was a labor-intensive process. It required more than what a phone can do. During those times, we’d need to buy a proper camera and editing software for your desktop computer, and put on some serious time and energy into learning how to use them.

Thanks to the advancement of smartphone cameras and the latest video /photo editing apps, we can now capture stunning photos and edit them straight off our smartphones.

Without further ado, let me share my top 5 favourite mobile camera tips that will instantly level up your photography skills!

#1 Panorama

Panorama camera function found on most phones but in fact not many use it. It is commonly known as a camera mode used to capture scenery or the skyline.

But, this hack shows you how to use panorama mode vertically to create unique-looking shots. With this setup, you’ll be able to capture more vertical estate without having to forgo horizontal estate as you normally would if capturing a photo in vertical format.

#2 Mirror Cloning Effect

With this next tip, you’ll be able to clone yourself in photos without having to edit them in-post.

1. Go to Pano mode and turn your phone in horizontal or vertical.

2. Start recording from bottom to top or left to right with both subject and shadow in the frame.

3. Keep the arrow on the center line.

4. When in middle, stop moving and ask your subject to move out of the frame.

5. Finish the recoding when you are happy with the framing.

*Many are unaware that you can actually stop and complete a panorama capture at any point without needing to complete an entire cycle.

#3 The Flip Method

This is a simple yet powerful tip when it comes to phone photography. If you ever find yourself in a situation where you’d like to capture a subject closer to the ground level, simply flip your phone upside down to achieve an overall better result.

This is because most phones are designed with their camera set on the top of the device. By flipping the device, you essentially bring the lenses closer to the ground.

This is also a commonly used tip when it comes to videography. So the next time, rather than physically going down low to get a better shot, simply flip your phone upside down!

#4 Long Exposure Effect

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Ever wondered how to create effects like this? By following these 3 simple steps, you too will be able to capture beautiful photos like this:

Note: This tip is for iPhone users.

1. Turn on live mode
2. Stand still & take a photo with a moving object of your choice.
3. Swipe up on the image and select long exposure

If you are an android user with no live photo mode feature, you may attempt taking the photo by reducing your camera shutter speed in pro mode.

Whenever shooting with a slower shutter speed, it is best to use a tripod to ensure little to no camera movement. Lastly, for best effect, do try to limit to only one moving object in the scene.

#5 Reflection

Proof that Instagram influencers have ruined everything

My hopes & dreams were shattered when I found out the “water” at the Gates of Heaven is actually just a piece of glass under an iPhone pic.twitter.com/oiahI5VCIo

— Polina (@polina_marinova) July 4, 2019

Many are probably familiar with this tip from seeing countless Gates of Heaven photos taken at the Pura Lempuyang Temple in Bali.

It was revealed that in reality, the photo is taken with a plane of mirror strategically placed just beneath the camera lens to create a plane of reflection.

Similar to this concept, in the event you aren’t carrying a mirror plane with you, similar outcome can still be achieved by using another smartphone device!

Yes! These are my top 5 favourite photography tips & hacks that I’ve collected along the way and use a lot in my everyday photography. As you can see, these simple tricks can help you create breathtaking photographs and memories.

Hope y’all like it & add it to your arsenal of photography hacks as well!

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