Every picture tells a story. We know that. Right? Make it eye-catching and unique and you have more than a story. You have followers, likes, shares and overall engagement. So, with high-powered cameras in your pockets, there really is no excuse for not posting perfect shots. But we get it. Not everyone is born with an innate talent to click IG-worthy pictures. For those of you, we bring easy photography tips for influencers!
Photography tips for influencers and creators to click social media worthy pictures
Getting that “perfect shot” might seem like a daunting task. But don’t worry! We are here to the rescue to up your photography game. Before you begin, swing by this blog to learn the basic dos and don’ts of phone photography.
Follow the rule of thirds
We’ve harped about the rule of thirds (seriously, read the blog we linked above or here.) But let’s give you a gist again (we’re good like that.)
The rule states that your photo should be framed within a 3×3 grid. You can align points of interest in the picture with the grid lines. It makes your image significantly more visually pleasing.
The good news? Most cameras and phones have the grid feature built-in. The better news? Most well-known influencers use it to get a breath-taking shot.
Frame your subject
While taking pictures, balance all your elements to frame the primary subject of your photograph well. Good framing is crucial to bringing viewers’ attention to the subject.
What if your picture has many focal points?
Multiple subjects can make a shot too cluttered and dilute its impact. In this case, use distinct “layering” to draw the viewer’s attention naturally from the foreground to the background.
Also, don’t neglect white space or negative space in your image. Use white space to detach an element or to add a little spark to your image. Avoid using this technique too much as it can make your picture dull.
Don’t neglect light and colours
Making use of good lighting and colours adds life to your photos. Shoot in natural light to make your composition dynamic and interesting. Another tip is to use the contrast of light and dark elements. They create a dramatic image. You can make use of shadows and silhouettes to draw viewers’ attention away from the people in your image to the other subjects in the photo.
If you’re shooting at home, try different areas. Find out where lighting works best at different times of the day. For more tips on lighting and photography, hop here.
Experiment with various angles
A unique presentation matters. Capture your subject from unusual and different angles to give it a new perspective, one that your followers don’t usually experience. Your goal should be to present your shot differently and distinctively enough to attract the viewers’ attention.
Strategical image cropping
Cropping is useful when you want to declutter an image and bring the viewer’s attention to its most notable aspect. Strategic cropping makes your composition more intriguing and engaging and the image more suggestive.
Use props wherever you can
The right props can drastically enhance an image. When shooting branded content, the product should never go alone on the white table. The same goes for you. Instead of standing solo and empty-handed in a garden, pick a flower and use it creatively. Props improve your pictures and your viewer’s experience. But keep in mind to match props with your product or subject like complement the colour scheme of your item.
Move beyond selfies
A selfie is an easy option when you are making content on your own. However, they make your page monotonous. Enlist the help of your friends to capture pictures (with beautiful, and appealing backgrounds). You can also use a tripod and a Bluetooth clicker to set up the shot.
Shoot in raw format
If you know you’re going to be editing the picture, take it in raw format. It gives you more natural shots and, therefore, more room processing, refining and editing. FYI, raw means unaltered and without adjusting the brightness, exposure and contrast settings of your camera.
Edit your photos with photo editing apps
Editing takes a lot of time and patience, but it’s worth it. Instagram already has a variety of photo editing options. However, photo editing tools, like Lightroom, and Snapseed are more comprehensive for influencers to get the perfect photo. Plus, it helps visually plan your Instagram grid.
While editing, don’t overload your picture with too many filters. Stick to slight smart and simple changes. And if you’re clicking self-portraits on Instagram, try these filters.
Summing up photography tips for budding influencers
Perfection takes time.
So, be patient when setting up and capturing a shot. Wait for the right moment and the quality of your images will be through the roof, getting more engagement. And, of course, brand collaborations.
