Photography is a way to capture a moment in time and share precious memories with the world. One of the most popular platforms to do that is through Instagram. We've become obsessed with cultivating the perfect image for social media thanks to some of our favorite beauty gurus, bloggers and celebrities. Unfortunately we don't all have the funds to hire a professional photographer every time we want new content on our pages.
Luckily as a photographer, I know first hand you don't need a DSLR to have a great Instagram feed. I may not be the best example for a killer feed because I don't post that often, but I have been deemed the Instagram friend of my group. The person who takes all of the photos when we're out or looking to capture a 'candid moment'.
Here are some of my tips.
Flash and Food aren't compatible.
A majority of the time when you use flash for a food photo it takes a way dimension and produces harsh shadows. That's why regardless of what type of shot you are taking it's always a good idea to use natural lighting. Trying siting near a window so that natural light will enhance your photos, sunrise and sunset are the best hours for natural lighting. Here is a few more tips for the ultimate foodie shot.
1. For a quick shot with an iPhone, lock focus a one specific item and shoot from a variety of angels. This will create depth of field in your photo.
2. Flatlays are super popular, so if your at a brunch with friends stand up and shoot from birds eye view. Just make sure that everything is neatly places and there isn't any spills on the plate or table. Adding hands or accessories make it seem a little less planned.
#ShortPeopleProblems.
I'm 5'0 ft on a good day, but sometimes I want to feel a little taller. When that's the case, I have my friends squat down a little and shoot up for my pictures. Another trick that I use is that I stand up on the ball of my feet to enhance my appearance.
Outfit of the Day.
We all have those moments when we feel flawless. Our hair, makeup and outfit is on point. For those moments it's important to capture it with a #ootd. I always suggest selecting your background based on the outfit. I like to pair a simple outfit with a cool mural or something that adds character like the picture above. For fun and bright outfits, I suggest going with a plain background that way the main focus is the entire outfit. Vacation ootds are a little different, select a popular landmark from the trip and take your outfit picture there.
Candids and Fake Candids.
Candids tell a story of a vacation or a night out on the town. When it comes to candid shots, just sneak a photo or two while no one is looking. Typically this shot shows serious focus or a genuine smile. If you must stage a photo try using these tips.
1. Showcase the location by walking slowly in front a certain place. This gives your photographer avid time to capture multiple angles. Also have your photographer engage in small talk to create a more natural facial expression.
2. Fake candids need to look natural, so when staging a shot just do whatever you would naturally do. For instance if your at a coffee shop your most likely going to be reading or chit chatting with friends. So imitate that in your photo, the more natural the photo is the better.
There is no shame in wanting to take great pictures and don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Just remember it's just social media. Don't take it so seriously. Go out and live your life and if the moment comes about, capture it.
