How to take Instagram-worthy photos for your business using a phone

The old legend is true — social media is vital for the success of any company. But keeping up with the constant posting and photo-taking can often be overwhelming — you’re a business owner, not a photographer, right?

Hiring a professional photographer is sure to enhance the quality of your posts, but if that’s currently outside of your budget, don’t freak out. You can take Instagram-able photos using your phone. Below are some tips to make your phone pictures as Insta-worthy as possible. 

Consistency

Whatever app or software you use to edit your photos — Adobe Lightroom Classic, VSCO, or even Instagram itself — it’s a good idea to find a preset or filter you like and stick with it for every photo you post. Not only will this make your profile’s grid on Instagram look sick, it’ll also help establish your brand.

Lighting

Even if you know nothing about lighting, you can still make sure your photos are lit well with these two secrets: backlighting and contrast. Everything looks better with that glowing rim around it from a backlight — people, pets, cars, you name it. And contrast adds texture to your photo and makes your subject pop. 

Composition

When taking a photo for social media, it’s typically best to use center framing. I recommend turning on your phone camera’s grid so you can ensure each photo is centered. To do this, go to your settings app, scroll down to the camera tab, and turn on “grid.” You’ll also want to make sure that all your photos are level — who likes a slanted shot?

Crop

Don’t cut off the edge of whatever you’re photographing — that’s the golden rule of photography (or, at least, that’s what I’ve named it). If you’re taking a shot of someone from head to toe, don’t cut off their toes. If you’re snapping a shot of a plant, don’t barely leave a single leaf out of the frame.

Personality

There will always be exceptions to this rule, but generally, it’s better to include a person in your photo interacting with the product you sell or enjoying the service you offer. Instead of photographing a shirt you're selling on a hanger, get someone to model it for you. If you’re selling coffee, try getting a hand to hold the cup.

Creativity

Yeah, I know. “Just be creative!” is 1000x easier said than done — but let’s get those brain cogs turning with some ideas. Got a mirror laying around? Put your product on that and snap a shot of a cool reflection. Is it the Christmas season? Throw some Christmas lights in the background. Fall? Use a pile of leaves. 

If all of this sounds fine and dandy but you’d prefer to have professional pictures to spruce up your social media, we’ve got you covered. Contact us to learn more about our photography services.