For the majority of these tutorials, you’ll need a mobile phone that has features like night mode, portrait mode, and wide-angle lenses, which are typically incorporated in newer models. The examples shown in this article were taken on an iPhone 11 Pro Max, however, the principles that we are teaching expand beyond just your mobile phone and to any camera you have on hand.

1. Adjust Exposure

Just like a DSLR or Mirrorless camera, phone apps and built-in camera functions allow for you to decrease or increase your exposure settings. If you’re using the built-in iPhone camera you’ll be able to tap and hold any part of your scene and drag your finger up and down (using the sun icon) to dial in your desired exposure. There are mobile phone photography apps that allow you to dial in manual camera settings such as Aperture, ISO, and shutter speed. Our favorite phone camera app is Pro Camera by Moment which we will be referencing a ton in this article.

2. Lock Focus on Subjects

Similar to the last tip, once you hold and press down on an area a small AE/AF Lock graphic will pop up just above the area you chose. This ensures that your subject will stay in focus if you accidentally shake your camera or move around the scene. Once you’ve locked focus on your subject you can rotate the camera to your liking to get the exact angle you were looking for or incorporate foreground objects like in the image example above without having the camera re-focus or have trouble finding focus.

3. Use the Compositional Grid

Launch the Settings app from the Home screen of your iPhone and tap on Photos & Camera. If you toggle the Grid switch it will enable a compositional grid to appear on your camera screen when you’re using the native camera app. This is a great tool to have while shooting in order to easily visualize whether or not your subject is on the rule of thirds lines or not. It’s also great practice for better understanding compositional theory like the golden rule or leading lines.

4. Experiment with Portrait Mode

5. Use Burst Mode for Action Shots

When capturing motion, try holding down the shutter button to capture 10 frames in one go. This wilI yield better results when it comes to capturing the action at the right time and you can select which images you want to keep and delete. This works great for jumping, dancing, or sports photography.

6. Understand The Effects of Wide Angle vs. Standard Lens

The iPhone 11 introduced Apple’s second added camera lens: the wide-angle lens. This allows users to capture a wider range of their frame opposed to the general lens that gives you standard focal length. The main wide-angle camera has an f1. 8 aperture and the equivalent focal length of 26mm.

Rewind: [iPhone Photography Fundamentals & Tips]

7. Create Long Exposures

There are several ways to create longer exposures using your iPhone camera, some are dependent on what model you have while others can be accomplished using an accessory made for all models.

• Tripod: Let’s start off with the most accessible method. You can use a tripod and a third-party app to create long exposures by manually setting your shutter speed to a slower setting and then using the tripod for stabilization. Our current favorite for mobile photography is the Peak Design Travel Tripod.
• Live Photo Long Exposure: Once you’ve captured a photo using Apple’s Live Photo mode you can swipe up on that image and select one of three options, two of which we will discuss in our next point. Long Exposure allows the camera to compute a longer exposure based on the small duration of which the live photo was captured. It’s important to note that you must hold your hands very still while capturing this photo, especially in low light situations so that the live photo has a solid chunk of stable footage to create from.
• Night Mode: This is a feature exclusive to iPhone 11 and up and it was introduced to boast about the new low-light capabilities of the improved camera. Night mode uses the new sensor along with machine learning and the Neural Engine in the A13 processor to create Night mode shots.

While iPhone sensors are still not nearly as powerful as DSLR or mirrorless sensors, you can use any of the above-mentioned methods to create light trails, water motion, photograph in darker locations, or capture unique movement.

8. Use Live Photo Loop and Bounce

iPhone’s Live Photo mode gives you three options to morphe your photo. Loop turns a Live Photo you love into a video loop. Bounce makes your Live Photo rock back and forth. They are quite similar in effect, however, a Loop doesn’t have the same smooth transition as a Bounce.

9. Choose Your Frame with Live Photos

The fourth option you have with Live Photos is being able to select one specific image in the bit of footage it has captured. With Live Photos, your iPhone records what happens 1.5 seconds before and after you take a picture. If you’re photographing kids or even taking a self-timed photo, this is a great tool to have so you can take a couple of Live Photos and select a key photo, essentially like culling.

10. Use Portrait Lighting Modes

In order to enhance your Portrait mode photos, you can utilize the iPhone’s Portrait Lighting Modes. There are 5 lighting modes in total that are designed to help create studio or stage lighting no matter where you are. While we still recommend manually selecting your exposure using tip #1, this is a great way to play with light just using the camera you have on your phone.

11. Take Panoramic Shots

This is probably one of the older tricks in the book but our reason for mentioning this is to hopefully ignite some creativity using the Panoramic feature. You can pan the camera slowly pan as you have your subject start on one end and run to the other side (below the eye line of the lens) and appear on both sides of the panoramic image. Another fun way to use the Panoramic feature on the iPhone is to use it vertically instead of horizontally to show big buildings or clouds and sky.

12. Create Slow-Mo Videos

Another fun technique to try out with the built-in features of your iPhone camera is the Slow-mo video function. It’s a fun technique to use for recording videos of motion like water or jumping/action related content. We have a whole article dedicated to helping you take better slow-mo videos on your iPhone here.

Rewind: [How to Use Slow Motion for Better iPhone Videos]

13. Never Miss a Moment – Access Camera From Home Screen

A quick tip to gain easy access to your phone is to change your settings to allow for your camera to be one swipe away from your lock screen.

14. Try Light Painting

Whether you are shooting in a studio or your home, find a dark space where you can cut away most of the ambient light. A tripod is crucial for this technique because we want to prevent camera shake since our shutter speed is so slow. Start with a shutter speed of 1-2 seconds and then dial your Aperture and ISO to blackout the room. We discussed earlier in the article which ways you can achieve manual camera settings and slower shutter speeds so once you’ve got your desired technique, start to twirl a pair of string lights or even move another phone in a figure 8 motion to create light paint behind the subject.

15. Experiment with Depth of Field

The introduction of the iPhone XS brought us the ability to change the depth of field, or aperture, of our image. This is a game-changer when it comes to using your phone to create portraits, focus on a singular object, or capture more detail in landscapes. The slider provides an f-stop range from f/1.4 to f/16. So it lets you adjust your photos to have a strong bokeh effect or keep everything in focus. The key is Apple’s image signal processor and software. Besides depth of field, the iPhone XS camera can automatically handle exposure, balance, facial recognition, focus, noise reduction, and local tone mapping.

16. Rotate the Camera

Change your perspective by, quite literally, changing your camera’s perspective. The lenses are located in the top right corner of the back of your iPhone meaning that even when you bring the height of the angle down, it isn’t quite in its lowest vantage point. Try rotating the camera to get interesting

17. Experiment with Foreground Objects

The tricky part of using an iPhone for these types of foreground shots is that the camera isn’t always powerful enough to sense what you’re trying to focus on. It will instead just choose the object closest to the lens. This will take some practice and possibly multiple shots in order for the camera to start cooperating with you, but once you nail it, the foreground elements add something of interest to your photo.

18. Try Underwater Photography

Both the iPhone X and the iPhone 8 are only water-resistant and this brought out a whole new level of photography capabilities when users started taking photos underwater. However, with the new iPhone 11 Pro camera, you can now submerge your phone for up to 30 minutes in 4 meters (roughly 13 feet). The technology will only get better over time and we’re bound to see some interesting upgrades when it comes to underwater recording and capture in the future.

19. Don’t Be Afraid to Zoom in

Using the Telephoto Lens (the 2x button next to 1.0x in the middle of the screen) allows you to zoom in 2 times the standard lens quickly. On older iPhone models, this lens doesn’t exist, and instead users will have to zoom in manually, which will likely cause some loss of detail and quality difference. This was why Apple decided to make the Telephoto lens, to help give people more access to different angles, similar to swapping lenses on. your DSLR or mirrorless. You can use the Telephoto lens for tight portraits,

20. Find or Create Reflections

One of the easiest ways to impress is to use a window or glass door to create a reflection of your subject or view. You’ll get better results if you lean the phone against a window to the left of you since the camera on an iPhone is in the top right corner of the back of the phone. Another great way to create a reflection on the go is to use someone else’s phone or invest in an ND filter. You can hold either of these objects close to the lens of your iPhone and create a reflection.

If you enjoyed this tutorial, make sure you check out our Tik Tok where we’ve been sharing fun mobile photography tutorials just like this one! Be sure to sign up to be the first to know when our Creative Photography 101 course releases to learn more fun tips & tricks to level up your creativity game.

Video: How to Use Portrait Mode on iPhone

In this short masterclass, we expand on the 20 Tips and Tricks for iPhone Photography that we covered in a previous article and teach you all about the iPhones Portrait Mode.  No matter how tempting, I am going to advise you not to photograph something as basic and boring as the image on the left. I’ll walk you through exactly how we achieved the image on the right and how to use Portrait Mode on iPhone so you won’t struggle with it ever again!

Watch the full tutorial below, and if you enjoy this type of content, make sure you check out our newest release: Creative Photography 101! 

iPhone Portrait Mode Tips

Here are the tips we presented in the short video, along with additional tips for capturing beautiful iPhone Portrait Mode photos.

Understand when to use it and when not to use it

The Portrait mode is specifically designed for standard portraits, where the subject is the primary focus. It excels at creating a pleasing separation between the subject and the background, blurring the latter for an aesthetically pleasing effect.

However, it may not be suitable for wide-angle shots or environmental portraits, where you want to capture more of the surroundings.  It can also struggle with large groups. While in each of these scenarios, the phone will still take a picture, you’re better off using the standard photo mode. Consider the context and intent of your photo to decide whether to use Portrait mode or opt for other shooting modes.

Understand the limitations and sacrifices of Portrait mode

Before diving into Portrait mode, it’s important to be aware of its limitations.

• Firstly, Portrait mode may not support live mode.
• Additionally, there might be a slight delay between pressing the shutter button and when the photo is actually captured. Therefore, timing your shots becomes crucial to capture the desired moment.
• Portrait mode might also result in a slower frame rate compared to regular shooting modes, making it challenging to capture moving subjects.

Find a Background, Less Busier the Better!

In order to create the Portrait Mode look (shallow depth of field), the iPhone camera uses depth mapping to figure out what is in the foreground of the image.  Data from the wide-angle and telephoto lenses are used to compute a depth map, which then artificially blurs objects depending on how far they are from the in-focus subject.

Opt for backgrounds that are less busy and less distracting, allowing the subject to be the focal point. Solid-colored walls, natural landscapes, or simple textures can work well. By minimizing visual clutter, you can draw attention to the subject and create a visually pleasing composition.

Create Distance Between You and the Subject

To utilize Portrait mode effectively, create some distance between you (the photographer) and the subject. The iPhone prompts you to ‘Move Further Away’ when it can’t detect a clear subject. This likely means your camera is too close to the subject for the technology to map the depth. This will take some trial and error, but start making small adjustments by taking one step at a time away from your subject until you see the background blur. Portrait mode works best at a moderate distance. If you move too far away, the camera may struggle to detect the subject properly and apply the desired depth of field effect.

Choose a Flattering Perspective

Unlike the standard lens that comes with iPhones (~28mm equivalent), the Telephoto lens is a much more zoomed-in focal length (~52mm). This means that when you switch from the standard lens to Portrait Mode you’re going to see a more zoomed-in image on your phone. In this example, you’ll see that we can still see some of the concrete sidewalk in the frame, and it takes away from the green landscape around our subject. To avoid that, I rotated the lens and brought it closer to the ground to conceal the concrete. Play around with your framing to ensure you’re still in a position to blur out the background.

Pose & Photograph Your Portrait!

There’s nothing left but to shoot! If you move from your original position or have your subject move, the phone may take a couple of moments to adjust to the new position and give you the same message as we saw in Step 2; however, it should be pretty quick to detect subtle movements. The final image was edited in Lightroom Mobile using Visual Flow Presets using the Crush Pack!

Conclusion

With the iPhone Portrait mode, you have a powerful tool at your disposal to capture stunning portraits. By understanding its strengths, limitations, and following the tips outlined in this article, you can elevate your portrait photography game. Remember to experiment, practice, and develop your own style while utilizing the iPhone Portrait mode to create captivating and professional-looking portraits.

If you enjoyed this tutorial on how to use Portrait Mode with iPhones, check out Creative Photography 101, our newest course dedicated to teaching you how to shoot and edit pro photos with just your phone. All photos in this course were taken on my iPhone 11 Pro Max to emphasize that it isn’t about the gear, it’s about the magic you can create with any camera! 

Indeed, telescopes are not cheap, and the learning curve in general seemed very intimidating. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to be somewhere with dark skies on a clear night, you literally do see billions of stars…

Luckily, for today’s stargazers searching for the best stargazing app, there are several options available, many of which are free! These best free stargazing apps for Android and iPhones will make stargazing as informative an activity as it is enjoyable.

We’ve put together a short list of the best star tracker apps, in no particular order, for both Android and iPhone users. Whether you’re looking to get serious about all things astronomy, or just photograph the Milky Way, there are plenty of apps on this list for you!

[Related Reading: Best Lenses for Milky Way Photography]

Best Star Tracker Apps: At a Glance

This guide covers five of the top free star tracker apps for Android and iPhone, plus a quick look at the best tools for tracking the sun, moon, and Milky Way core.

• SkyView – Beginner-friendly with offline mode and ISS tracking
• Star Chart – Stunning visuals with optional 3D object viewing
• SkyWiki – Encyclopedia-style app with astronomy news and event calendar
• Star Rover – Augmented reality mode with global sky simulation
• SkEye – Advanced planetarium with telescope PUSHTO guidance
• Sun, Moon & Milky Way Tracking – Tools for photographers and planners

5 of the Best Star Tracker Apps Available

SkyView App

Google Play | App Store

SkyView holds its own among the best star tracker apps out there. This beautifully designed, easy-to-use app provides a perfect companion for stargazing, and it does not require Wi-Fi to function. The unpaid/free version offers a number of interesting features that you won’t find in other star tracker apps, and they’re easy to use. With a single tap, you can point your device at the sky and access a detailed description of a variety of objects, including satellites, stars, planets, constellations, and more.

SkyView also allows users to enable night mode so they can track objects even during the day without washing out the display. As an added bonus, the app includes an option to play mellow ambient music, which makes the overall experience that much more relaxing and enjoyable. One of my favorite things to do with SkyView is to watch for the ISS (International Space Station) to fly over. It’s often visible even in suburban scenarios with moderate light pollution, and SkyView will alert you when a pass is approaching so you don’t miss it.

The offline functionality is worth calling out specifically. Because the app doesn’t require a data connection to work, it’s ideal for dark-sky locations where cell service is spotty, which is often exactly where the best stargazing happens. If you’re heading out to the desert or a rural area for astrophotography, SkyView will still function reliably once you’ve opened it.

Star Chart

Google Play | App Store

Like other star tracker apps on this list, Star Chart is free and contains exceptional features. It’s worth noting, however, that you’ll need to pay through in-app purchases to access the best of them. The upside is that many users find the premium features well worth the price. One standout feature is the 3D model view, which lets you observe particular objects in three dimensions during the night, bringing an exciting new dimension to virtual stargazing.

The app is also very easy to use. Triggering more information about any object requires only a single tap, and the image quality for both Android and iPhone users is excellent. The star maps are crisp and visually polished, making Star Chart one of the more aesthetically pleasing options on this list. If you appreciate a beautiful interface as much as accurate data, this one is worth a look even at the free tier.

SkyWiki

Google Play

Although SkyWiki is not a full planetarium simulator, it probably has the best interface of any app on this list. It functions more like an astronomy encyclopedia than a sky map, which makes it a great companion to the other apps here rather than a direct replacement. The design is elegant and intuitive, and the app includes several unique features that enhance its usability.

The Periscope page visually traces the rise and fall of the sun and moon throughout the day, which is particularly useful for planning golden hour shoots or anticipating when the sky will fully darken. SkyWiki also aggregates astronomy news updates in one place, which is especially helpful for users who want to stay on top of upcoming astronomical events. The Calendar page rounds things out with detailed information about lunar phases, planetary events, meteor showers, and more. If keeping up with what’s happening in the night sky is important to you, SkyWiki makes that effortless.

[Related Reading: Must Have Apps and Websites for Nightscape and Milky Way Photography]

Star Rover

Google Play | App Store

Star Rover offers even more information than some of its closest competitors. The standout feature is its augmented reality mode, which overlays detailed information about a selected celestial object directly onto your camera view. What makes it especially interesting is that you’re not limited to your current location. You can simulate the sky as seen from any place in the world in real time, so if you want to preview what the stars will look like from a location you’re scouting for a future shoot, Star Rover can show you that before you ever leave home.

In terms of design and user experience, the app’s visual aesthetic is minimal, and it can lag occasionally as it updates in real time. That said, it’s still a solid tool for tracking stars and planning observations. It’s worth noting that while the free version does feature ads, they’re not as intrusive as the ads in some of the other star tracker apps on this list.

SkEye

Google Play

SkEye is one of the best star tracker and planetarium apps available, excelling as a tool for both observational and backyard astronomers. Although the interface is sleek and less stylized than some other applications, it makes up for it with the depth of its functionality. The app displays right ascension, declination, altitude, and azimuth coordinates in real time, giving you accurate positioning data that more casual apps don’t provide.

One of SkEye’s most practical features is its PUSHTO telescope guidance. If you have a Dobsonian or any other manual telescope, you can strap your phone to the optical tube and use SkEye as a pointing guide, no motorized mount required. It’s a surprisingly capable feature for a free app, and it’s the kind of thing that separates SkEye from the more beginner-focused options on this list. A Pro version is also available for users who want access to the complete NGC and IC catalogs, custom catalog import, and a larger star database drawn from the Tycho2 catalog. All core features in the free version are available without any paywalls, which is a refreshing change from many apps in this category.

[Related Reading: How to Find the Best Locations in Your Area for Shooting in the Night Sky]

Best App For Sun, Moon, & Milky Way Tracking

What if you don’t need to track individual stars or constellations, but instead you want to track the sun, moon, and the Milky Way core? There are other apps for that, and we cover them in this article here. The simple answer is to get an app such as Sun Surveyor, my personal favorite, or another popular one, PhotoPills. Both are purpose-built for photographers and offer detailed planning tools including AR horizon previews, golden hour and blue hour timers, and Milky Way position forecasts tied to your specific location and date.

Frequently Asked Questions About Stargazing Apps

What is the best free stargazing app for beginners?

SkyView is probably the best starting point for beginners. It has a clean interface, works offline, and requires nothing more than pointing your phone at the sky to identify stars, planets, and constellations. The free version covers everything most casual stargazers will ever need.

Do star tracker apps work without an internet connection?

Most do, at least for core functionality. SkyView is specifically noted for its offline capability, which makes it ideal for remote dark-sky locations where cell service may be limited. Apps like SkEye also work offline, though some features such as comet data updates may require a connection.

Are these star tracker apps available for both Android and iPhone?

Most of the apps on this list are available on both platforms. SkyView, Star Chart, Star Rover, and SkyWiki all have versions for Android and iOS. SkEye is currently Android-only, so iPhone users will want to consider the other options or look at alternatives like Sky Map or Star Walk 2.

Can I use a stargazing app to help with astrophotography planning?

Star tracker apps are useful for identifying objects and understanding the sky layout, but dedicated photography planning apps will serve you better for actual shoot planning. Sun Surveyor and PhotoPills are both designed with photographers in mind, offering tools for golden hour timing, Milky Way positioning, and augmented reality horizon previews tied to specific dates and locations.

What does a star tracker app actually do?

A star tracker app uses your phone’s GPS, compass, and gyroscope to map the sky relative to your position in real time. When you point your phone at any part of the sky, the app overlays a star map showing what’s there, including star names, constellation lines, planet positions, and satellite paths. Some apps also include a time machine feature that lets you simulate what the sky looked like in the past or will look like in the future.

Conclusion

Whether you’re stepping outside for a quick look at the night sky or planning a dedicated astrophotography session, having one of these apps on your phone makes the experience far more rewarding. We know there are several other great options out there that we didn’t include. What are some other apps you use to explore the stars and planets above us? What are your favorite features from those apps? Let us know in the comments below!

Previously, we covered iPhone Photography Tips to improve your mobile photography skills. For this article, we’ll look at the best iPhone photography accessories to expand your creative toolkit. Professional photographers and enthusiasts alike already use the following accessories to make their iPhone camera better and more dynamic, and soon you will, too.

Important note for iPhone 15, 16, and 17 users: Apple transitioned from Lightning to USB-C starting with the iPhone 15. If you own an iPhone 15 or newer, pay close attention to connector types when shopping for accessories. Several popular accessories that once used Lightning now offer USB-C versions, and we’ve noted the correct model for each connector type throughout this guide.

Best iPhone Photography Accessories: At a Glance

This guide covers the best accessories to level up your iPhone photography, from tripods and lenses to lighting, audio, and power solutions.

• Tripods, Mounts and Straps – Stabilize your iPhone for sharper photos and video
• iPhone Lenses – Expand your field of view with add-on optics
• iPhone Lighting Accessories – Portable LED solutions for any shooting situation
• Microphones for iPhone Video – Upgrade your audio quality for professional results
• Remote Shutter Release – Trigger your camera hands-free from a distance
• Storage and Batteries – Keep shooting longer with extra power and storage
• Frequently Asked Questions – Common questions about iPhone camera accessories

iPhone Photography Accessories: Tripods, Mounts and Straps

Tripods might look a little different for iPhones due to their small stature, but they still serve the same function. Generally, tripods come equipped with three-legged support to keep the camera steady and prevent blur caused by shaky hands. While iPhones feature incredible in-camera stability, the added stability that tripods provide takes it up a notch. With the right tripod and mount, you can take sharp, clear, and well-composed photos with your iPhone. There are various types of tripods and mounts available for iPhone, including tabletop tripods, flexible tripods, and clamp mounts.

For long exposure photography, night shots, or time-lapse sequences, a tripod is practically essential. Even with the iPhone’s optical image stabilization, any slight hand movement during a multi-second exposure will show up as blur. A solid tripod eliminates that variable entirely and lets you focus on composition instead of fighting camera shake.

SmallRig All-in-One Universal Quick Release Phone Video Rig Kit Pro

The SmallRig All-in-One Universal Quick Release Phone Video Rig Kit Pro (Model 4704) offers a comprehensive solution for professional smartphone videography, featuring a universal quick-release phone cage, dual rotating handles, tripod, LED light, microphone, power bank holder, and additional accessories. Designed for wide compatibility, the cage fits phones 2.52 to 3.46 inches wide, supporting various iPhone, Samsung, Huawei, and Google Pixel models, even with cases, and offers both MagSafe and clip-based attachments. The dual handles enable 360-degree rotation, allowing easy switching between side and top grip modes. A detachable wireless controller on the handle offers remote shutter and recording control from up to 32.8 feet.

This kit includes the SmallRig P96 LED light with adjustable brightness and color temperature (2700K to 6500K), as well as a shotgun microphone with a cardioid pattern to reduce background noise, both battery-free and ready to use. The phone cage provides extensive 1/4″-20 threaded holes, cold shoes, and quick-release points, allowing flexible expansion with additional accessories. Paired with a quick-release tripod, the setup supports seamless transitions between handheld and tripod shooting, making it a versatile tool for capturing high-quality video on the go. If you’re looking for a single purchase that covers multiple needs at once, this kit is hard to beat.

Joby GripTight ONE Mount

One of the best mounts for iPhone is the Joby GripTight ONE Mount. It features a spring-loaded grip that can accommodate phones between 2.2 and 3.6 inches wide, with or without a case. The mount includes a standard 1/4″-20 tripod attachment, so you can pair it with virtually any tripod you already own or plan to buy. It’s a simple, reliable solution for anyone who wants to quickly mount their iPhone for stable shooting without fussing over complicated setups.

DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Smartphone Gimbal

As they say, “Optical and digital image/video stabilization isn’t enough for iPhone photographers.” If that’s the case with you, a smartphone gimbal is the answer. DJI’s latest entry, the Osmo Mobile 7 series (launched February 2025), replaces the older Osmo Mobile 6 and brings meaningful improvements for iPhone filmmakers.

Whether you are jumping, walking, or running, the DJI Osmo Mobile 7 makes sure that your photos or videos are buttery smooth and stable. The standard Osmo Mobile 7 ($89) includes ActiveTrack 7.0 for improved subject tracking, a built-in tripod for quick setup, and a telescopic extension rod. For creators who want even more, the Osmo Mobile 7P ($179) adds a Multifunctional Module with a built-in LED light and microphone receiver support. Although investing in a gimbal can cost you a bit, it’s undoubtedly one of the best iPhone camera accessories to dramatically improve your video quality.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: B&H | Amazon

Joby GorillaPod GripTight One

Like its big brother, the original GorillaPods, the GorillaPod GripTight One by Joby is versatile, has bendable legs, and has a sturdy build quality. If you are serious about getting outstanding shots from absolutely any setting, then the GripTight One has got your back.

The GripTight One features rubber feet that provide a stable grip across all surfaces, flexible ball-and-socket legs that wrap around poles, branches, or railings, and a ball head that offers 360-degree swivel with tilt up to 90 degrees. This combination of the GripTight ONE Mount and GorillaPod 325 tripod supports devices up to 11.5 ounces, which covers virtually every iPhone model. Whether you’re wrapping it around a fence post for a unique angle or setting it on a table for a quick time-lapse, this tripod adapts to situations where a traditional tripod simply won’t work.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Moment Neck Strap

Breaks are essential, and during those breaks, the Neck Strap by Moment can lend a helping hand. This high-quality neck strap will hold your iPhone for you when you need to free your hands.

The Moment Neck Strap can be adjusted from 37 inches to 44 inches, and it’s made from premium Ecco leather with a microfiber-lined neck pad for all-day comfort. Matte black buckles and hardware give it a clean, professional look. Moment’s newer versions feature a QuickLink connection system that pairs with their latest phone cases for fast attachment and release. If you’re shooting all day at an event or walking around a city, having your iPhone securely around your neck keeps it accessible while freeing up both hands.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Amazon

iPhone Lenses

Lenses represent another essential accessory for iPhone photography. They can help you capture a wider field of view, zoom in on distant objects, and add creative effects to your photos. Some of the most popular types of lenses for iPhone include wide-angle lenses, telephoto lenses, macro lenses, and fisheye lenses. While the latest iPhone models already pack impressive multi-lens camera systems, add-on lenses push your creative range even further by offering focal lengths and perspectives that the built-in cameras simply can’t match.

Moment Lenses

Moment lenses are one of the must-have accessories to make the iPhone camera better. They’re available in various specifications including the Wide 18mm, Tele 58mm, Fisheye 14mm, Anamorphic (1.33x and 1.55x), and the newer Macro 75mm II and Macro 10x II lenses.

One of the best lens options for iPhone is the Moment Wide 18mm Lens. It’s a high-quality lens that offers a wider field of view than the iPhone’s built-in camera. For this reason, this lens is ideal for landscape and architectural photography, and it also works well for capturing group photos and selfies.

You can buy any of the Moment lenses and pop them directly on top of your iPhone’s camera. Note that Moment lenses won’t improve the sensor quality of the image but significantly alter the angle of view and make your shots stand out.

Choosing the Right Moment Lens Generation

Moment currently offers two lens generations. The T-Series (released 2023) is designed for iPhone 14 and newer models with larger sensors and 24mm or wider base focal lengths. The older M-Series is intended for iPhone 13 and earlier, and Moment has been phasing it out with closeout pricing. If you’re buying new, go with the T-Series for the best optical performance on current iPhones. Moment also offers a trade-in program if you’re upgrading from M-Series lenses.

Moment lenses require a compatible Moment case with a built-in lens mount, or you can use Moment’s drop-in mounts (starting around $5) for a more affordable entry point. This gives you more flexibility than the older system, which required the full case for every lens swap.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Sandmarc Lenses

Sandmarc lenses, much like the Moment ones mentioned above, are also on the must-have accessories list to make the iPhone camera better. You can find Sandmarc lenses in various bundles and styles like macro, wide-angle, fisheye, telephoto, and anamorphic.

Buy any of the Sandmarc lenses and pop them directly on top of your iPhone’s camera. As an added bonus, the Sandmarc lenses come with a clip-mount so that you can use them without a specific case. And you can use them on any smartphone camera, not just the iPhone. This universal compatibility makes Sandmarc a great option if you switch between phone brands or want to share lenses with friends and family who use Android devices.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Amazon | Sandmarc

iPhone Lighting Accessories

Lighting is crucial for photography, and it’s no different when it comes to iPhone photography. Good lighting can help you capture bright, vibrant, and sharp photos, while poor lighting can result in blurry or grainy images. There are various types of lighting accessories available for iPhone, including LED lights, ring lights, and portable softbox kits. Even a small, portable LED can make a dramatic difference in the quality of your iPhone photos, especially in indoor settings, during golden hour fill, or when shooting in mixed lighting conditions.

Lumecube Lighting Kit

One of the best lighting options for iPhone is the Lume Cube 2.0. It’s a small, portable LED light that can be mounted directly onto your iPhone or attached to a tripod via its 1/4″-20 thread. This waterproof light features adjustable brightness levels and is built for both outdoor and indoor photography.

The Lume Cube 2.0 is definitely one of the best iPhone camera accessories for both professional mobile photographers and videographers.

The Lumecube Lighting Kit produces 1500 lumens of bright, daylight-balanced light at 5600K with a CRI rating of 95+, which means colors look accurate and natural under this light. It comes with a cube and a smartphone mount. To give your shots a professional look, the kit also includes filters and diffusers. The 80-degree beam angle eliminates hot spots for smooth, even coverage. Because of their small size, you can take them anywhere. The Lume Cube 2.0 is waterproof down to 30 feet, charges via USB-C, and can be controlled wirelessly through the Lume-X app on your iPhone or Android device. It’s one of the best iPhone camera accessories to emulate studio lighting on location.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Adorama | B&H | Amazon | Lume Cube

Auxiwa Clip-On Light

Photos and videos are all about lighting. Even the iPhone’s camera can get sluggish in low-light situations. And that’s precisely where you’ll find the Auxiwa Clip-On Light useful. With this iPhone photography accessory, you just need to clip it on, and you are ready to shoot.

The Auxiwa Clip-On Light features 36 LEDs and three intensity modes that are perfect for absolutely any setting. It’s an ideal budget-friendly option for quick selfie lighting, video calls, or when you need just a little extra fill light without carrying a full lighting kit. The rechargeable battery and lightweight clip design make it easy to toss in a pocket or bag for on-the-go use.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Amazon

iPhone Camera Accessories for Video: Microphones

Like stable motion, good audio can make the difference between professional quality video and an amateur one. For that reason, don’t skip on iPhone camera accessories that will improve the audio in your videos. All iPhone filmmakers should consider investing in a quality iPhone microphone. The built-in microphones on the iPhone are surprisingly capable for casual use, but they pick up too much ambient noise for serious video work, especially outdoors or in busy environments.

Rode VideoMic Me-C+ (USB-C) / Rode VideoMic Me-L (Lightning)

The iPhone’s camera is considered to be one of the most capable video cameras today. However, it lacks microphone quality. That’s where Rode’s VideoMic Me series can come in handy. These compact directional microphones plug directly into your iPhone and deliver crystal clear audio quality while minimizing background noise.

Which Version Do You Need?

For iPhone 15, 16, and 17 (USB-C): You need the Rode VideoMic Me-C+. This is the USB-C version with MFi certification for iOS compatibility. Note that the original “VideoMic Me-C” (without the plus) was designed for Android only, so make sure you get the Me-C+ model specifically for use with newer iPhones.

For iPhone 14 and older (Lightning): The original Rode VideoMic Me-L remains the correct choice. It plugs directly into the Lightning port and works without batteries or additional setup.

Both versions feature a directional cardioid pickup pattern, a 3.5mm headphone jack for real-time audio monitoring, and include a mic clip and furry windshield for outdoor use. They’re plug-and-play with no batteries required, making them one of the easiest audio upgrades you can make for iPhone video.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Remote Shutter Release iPhone Camera Accessories

Remote shutter releases allow you to trigger your iPhone’s camera from a distance, without having to physically touch your phone. This can prove particularly useful when taking selfies, group photos, or long-exposure shots. There are various types of remote shutter release options available for iPhone, including Bluetooth remotes, wired remotes, and self-timer apps. A remote shutter also helps eliminate the micro-vibrations that happen when you tap the screen, which is especially helpful during low-light or macro photography where even the slightest movement shows up in the final image.

Movo PR-1 Smartphone Grip

One of the best remote shutter release options for iPhone is the Movo PR-1 Smartphone Grip. It’s a versatile grip that can be used as a tripod mount, a selfie stick, and a remote shutter release. The Movo PR-1 connects to your iPhone via Bluetooth, allowing you to trigger the camera from up to 30 feet away. This makes it a handy all-in-one tool for solo creators who need to set up shots and trigger the shutter without running back and forth.

iPhone Camera Accessories: Storage and Batteries

Finally, storage is an essential aspect of iPhone photography. With increasingly higher resolution photos and videos (especially ProRes and 4K content on newer models), it’s easy to run out of storage space quickly. Fortunately, there are various types of storage options available for iPhone, including iCloud storage, external hard drives, and USB drives.

SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe

Updated Model for Current iPhones

The SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe is the updated version that works with both Lightning and USB-C iPhones thanks to its dual-connector design. This is an important distinction, because the original iXpand Flash Drive used Lightning only and won’t work with iPhone 15 or newer. Additionally, the original iXpand Drive app was discontinued in April 2025, so for file management on newer iPhones you’ll want to use the iOS Files app or the SanDisk Memory Zone app instead.

The iXpand Flash Drive Luxe is a small USB drive that can be used to transfer files between your iPhone and computer with USB 3.0 speeds. It’s a practical solution for quickly offloading photos and videos during a shoot without needing a Wi-Fi connection or cloud storage. Available in capacities up to 256GB, it offers plenty of room for thousands of photos or hours of video. Password protection keeps your content secure, and the compact metal housing is durable enough to toss in a gear bag without worry.

ToughTested 10,000mAh Solar Charger and Wireless Portable Power Bank

While battery cases used to be a thing, more and more people are turning to wireless chargers to keep their iPhones going. The more rugged, portable, and powerful, the better. Of course, price will always factor in as well. Because of this, we’ve selected a solar charger that checks all the boxes. Say hello to the ToughTested 10,000mAh Solar Charger and Wireless Portable Power Bank. It’s a “powerful” solution for people who are serious about using iPhone camera accessories to level up their iPhone photography game.

This entry for iPhone photography accessories features a built-in 10,000mAh battery, LED flashlight, two USB-A ports, and one USB-C port. You can also rest easier knowing that it has a waterproof rating of IP65 to protect it from heavy rain and dust. Basically, it can go anywhere you go and make it safely through. The wireless charging feature is a nice touch for quick top-ups when you’re out in the field, and the solar panel provides a trickle charge to help keep the bank topped off during long outdoor sessions.

Check Pricing & Availability Here: B&H

Frequently Asked Questions About iPhone Photography Accessories

Do iPhone camera accessories work with both Lightning and USB-C iPhones?

It depends on the accessory. Universal accessories like tripods, mounts, lenses, and Bluetooth devices work with all iPhones regardless of the charging port. However, accessories that plug directly into your iPhone (like wired microphones and flash drives) are connector-specific. iPhone 15 and newer use USB-C, while iPhone 14 and older use Lightning. Always check which connector version you need before purchasing. When in doubt, look for dual-connector accessories like the SanDisk iXpand Flash Drive Luxe that include both Lightning and USB-C.

What is the single best iPhone accessory for improving photo quality?

If you could only buy one accessory, a portable LED light like the Lume Cube 2.0 will have the most noticeable impact on your photo quality. Lighting is the single biggest factor in photography, and even a small, well-placed light can transform a mediocre shot into a professional-looking image. That said, if video is your focus, a gimbal like the DJI Osmo Mobile 7 is arguably the most transformative upgrade you can make.

Do I need a special case to use iPhone camera lenses?

It depends on the lens brand. Moment lenses work best with a Moment case that has a built-in lens mount, though Moment also sells affordable drop-in mounts as an alternative. Sandmarc lenses, on the other hand, include a universal clip-mount that works with any phone and any case, so no special case is needed. If you want maximum flexibility across multiple devices, clip-mount lenses are the easier option.

Are MagSafe accessories compatible with all iPhone models?

MagSafe is built into iPhone 12 and newer models. Older iPhones can use MagSafe accessories with an adhesive magnetic ring adapter, though the connection won’t be as strong. Many modern iPhone photography accessories, including the SmallRig phone cage featured in this article, support both MagSafe attachment and traditional clip-based mounting for broader compatibility.

What iPhone accessories do I need to start shooting professional-looking video?

For a solid starter video kit, you’ll want three things: a stabilizer (like a gimbal or tripod), an external microphone, and a small LED light. The SmallRig All-in-One Video Rig Kit Pro bundles all three into a single package, which makes it a great starting point. From there, you can add specialized accessories like lenses or a power bank as your needs grow. Good audio is especially critical for video, so if your budget is tight, prioritize a microphone first.

Conclusion | iPhone Camera Accessories

Summing up, having the best iPhone camera accessories at your disposal can help boost your photography potential. Camera technology gets better every year with the introduction of new features and higher resolution images. The iPhone photography accessories we listed above are all affordable and readily available. They exist to help push your creativity and make your photos that much better. For this reason, be sure to use them and take your iPhone photography experience to a whole new level.

With the iPhone’s transition to USB-C starting with the iPhone 15, it’s a good time to review your current accessories and make sure everything is compatible with your specific model. The accessories in this guide have been verified for availability and updated to reflect the latest product versions, so you can shop with confidence knowing you’re getting the right gear for your iPhone.

How to Take Good Selfies | Short Video Tutorial

Taking good selfies requires a knowledge of simple and easy techniques, lighting tricks, and other basic concepts. Here’s a quick 60 second video from Pye to illustrate the technique.

Experiment with angles

Try taking selfies from different angles to find the most flattering one. In most instances, holding the camera slightly above your head is the optimal angle.  Holding it below your head and looking down can create an unflattering double chin.  However, be careful not to go too high with the angle though, as that can look awkward and unnatural.

Find the Right Lighting

For photographers, light is the most important element when capturing a shot. Whether you are a professional or an amateur photographer, good lighting can make all the difference in the quality of your image; it shapes and brings life to your subjects, allowing you to bring emotion, texture and dimension to your photos.  The process of finding the right light is no different with selfies!

Indoors with Window Light – If you’re indoors, position yourself near a window that doesn’t have direct light streaming in.  If it does, try using a sheer or transparent blinds to diffuse the light.

Outdoors – If you’re outdoors, try to find a shaded area without direct sunlight hitting your face.  Also, remember that even shaded light has a direction, so ideally you want to find a light direction that fills in your shadows.  Avoid light coming from directly above, as that can create shadows under your eyes.

Night Time or Low Light – In low light, follow the same concepts as above, but instead of natural light, find a directional light source.  Avoid standing directly under canned lights, which might mean that you stand slightly in the shadows, away from the lights above.

Choose the right background

Your background should complement your selfie, not detract from it. A plain wall or solid-colored background works well, as does a natural setting such as a park or beach.  If you’re shooting indoors, clean the space behind you that shows up in frame.

Pay attention to your posture

Good posture can make a big difference in how your selfie turns out. Stand up straight, pull your shoulders back, and look confident.  Slightly extend your neck toward the camera for a more flattering look.  However, make sure you don’t extend it too far, as that can look natural and exaggerated.

Turn towards the light! If you’re shooting with light direction, slightly turn your chin towards the light.  This is a concept known as “short lighting,” which generally has a face slimming effect.

Find Your Ideal Expression

The ideal expression is different for everyone, so play around and find the one for you.  Try slightly squinting, an expression coined the “squinch” by famous headshot photographer, Peter Hurley.  Experiment with different smiles, from close-mouthed smiles to full smiles. For more information and inspiration, follow these 5 Tips for Good Headshot Photography.

While the image below is not a selfie, it demonstrates the difference between the subject’s “wide-eyed” expression (on the left) and the “squinch” (on the right).

Additional Tips for Taking Good Selfies

Extend The Camera Away From Your Face – Objects closer to the camera will appear larger than objects that are further away.  Since selfies are taken at such a close distance, this means that your nose will generally look larger if the camera is close to the face.  For more information on this concept, study lens compression.

Use Portrait Mode – If your smart phone has a portrait mode option, turn it on to minimize distracting elements in the background and make you pop off the background.

Play with filters and editing – Most smartphones have a variety of filters and editing tools that can enhance your selfie. Experiment with different filters and presets to find the one that works best for you, and use editing tools to brighten up your skin or sharpen your features.  Be careful not to go overboard, however, and make sure you create something authentic.

Have fun with it

Finally, the most important tip of all is to have fun with your selfies! Don’t take them too seriously, and remember that the best selfies are the ones that capture your personality and spirit.  For more tips, read our article on 20 Tips and Tricks for iPhone Photography.

The best tripods for iPhones and smartphones are ultra-compact and lightweight, yet sturdy and versatile.  The ideal iPhone or android tripod is easy to carry around in a pocket or a bag, making it convenient to use and easy to access.  After testing dozens of tripod and gimbal solutions, we’ve come up with our favorite iPhone and smartphone tripods for content creators on the go.

Mobile by Peak Design

Mobile by the Peak Design Team is an entire ecosystem of mounts, cases, accessories, and chargers.  With a sleek design, magnetic connections that snap together with a clean, crisp satisfaction, and a versatile set of attachments, this is one of the most innovative tripods for the iPhone that we’ve ever seen.  This case and system is currently only available for the iPhone.

See Pricing on: Kickstarter

Manfrotto PIXI with Universal Smartphone Clamp

A solid tripod that doubles as a clamp kit, the Manfrotto PIXI with Universal Smartphone Clamp is ideal for those who want to save money and avoid buying separate components. It works well for smartphones and cameras alike thanks to the integral ball head. The Manfrotto PIXI is solidly built from stainless steel and is stable enough to take incredible images using most of the smartphones available on the market. Weighing in at just 0.49 lbs./220 gr, this tripos is ultra-compact and easy to carry everywhere.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Joby GorillaPod Mobile Mini

Featuring a design that’s often imitated, the Joby GorillaPod Mobile Mini has flexible legs and a ball head that secures the smartphone in place. A great option for vloggers, this tripod is very small and lightweight and is easy to wrap around objects so you can get shots from just about any angle. It’s also a great option for those looking for a stable viewing stand. The rubberized jaw of the Joby GorillaPod Mobile Mini can handle even plus size smartphones, including iPhone Plus and Max models.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Adonit Photogrip

One of the few tripods out there that allows you to recharge a smartphone wirelessly while taking photos, the Adonit Photogrip also sports a built-in Bluetooth shutter button. This ultra-compact tripod remains lightweight even though it has a 3,000 mAH built-in battery. The Adonit Photogrip is available in black or white and comes with a neoprene bag to store and transport the tripod.

See Pricing on: Amazon

Joby GripTight PRO TelePod

This is another tripod from Joby, but one that doubles as an extending pole, being suitable for video creators working with smartphones and action cams. You can use the Joby GripTight PRO TelePod in both landscape and portrait mode, and the adjustable tilt also makes it suitable for selfies. The tripod comes with a removable Bluetooth remote shutter, making it easy to capture shots remotely. The GripTight PRO TelePod is a highly versatile choice as it includes a Pin Joint mount action for Go Pro cameras and a cold shoe PRO mount for accessories.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount

What makes the Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount different from other models is the rotating mount that can hold any size phone securely without the need of a stand. You can use it in both portrait and landscape orientation, and the tripod is an excellent choice not just for vloggers and videographers, but also for conference calls or simply for watching movies in bed. The Square Jellyfish Metal Spring Tripod Mount features four springs for a strong grip and a sturdy heavy duty clamp. It’s also compact enough to fit in your pocket.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Shoulderpod S2

Boasting a high-quality grip, the Shoulderpod S2 works as a tripod mount, traveler stand and filmmaker handle. It’s a solid portable solution for filming professionally with your smartphone. The Shoulderpod S2 comes with a tripod mount that’s compatible with smartphones of all sizes, a handle made from Sapeli wood for a comfortable grip, and a wrist strap for extra safety. You can use your smartphone with or without a case with this tripod, and the compact design makes it easy to carry everywhere.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Benro BK10 Mini Tripod and Selfie Stick

A compact mini tripod that doubles as a selfie stick, the Benro BK10 Mini is suitable for smartphones, Go Pros and small cameras. It’s also a good option for 360 cameras because its handle can convert to tripod legs. In the box you’ll find a 1/4-20 attachment, a removable ballhead, a Go Pro adapter, and Bluetooth remote that you can stow in one of the legs of the tripod. The Benro BK10 Mini has a maximum usable length of 33.8 inches and you can use it with the smartphone in a case.

See Pricing on: Adorama | B&H | Amazon

Conclusion

We hope you enjoyed reading about the best iPhone and Smartphone tripods.  We’ll update this list every year, so please make any recommendations in the comments below.  For more “best of” lists, see our Best Of category.

Video: How to Get Dramatic Clouds in Overcast Lighting Conditions

I’ll be demonstrating how to make clouds pop during overcast lighting on a dedicated camera as well as the iPhone. I’ll be using the Canon EOS R5 paired with the RF 28-70mm f/2L lens. After capturing the same image on the phone, I’ll be doing a full edit in Adobe Lightroom Mobile so stick around until the end! Let’s dive in.

Exposing to Preserve the Details

Even though the skies appear bright and flat in overcast lighting, I promise you that the details are there. What matters is how you take the photo in-camera. First, make sure you’re shooting in RAW format to capture as much information as possible. Then take a basic composition like I did here. I focused on the rocks and composed the sky to take up the upper portion of the frame.

The trick to properly exposing the image is using the histogram and your camera’s highlight alert to prevent overexposure. Exposing too bright will cause the photo to lose important information in the clouds. Here is a side by side example with the final settings.

On the iPhone, the app does a great job automatically exposing the image and preserving the details, even in overcast lighting conditions. Without making any adjustments to exposure, here’s the raw photo from the iPhone.

How to Make the Clouds Pop in Adobe Lightroom Mobile

Once we’re in the app, the first thing we’re going to do is bring the detail out from the sky. Use the Graduated Filter in the “Selective Editing” section and drag over the sky. Make sure to feather the mask.

I pulled down the exposure. Then, in effects, I increased de-haze. You’ll notice the details in the clouds immediately popping out from the overcast lighting. Next, I boosted clarity. Check out the difference from just those simple adjustments.

Editing the Final Image

I personally love turning landscape shots during overcast lighting into black and white photos. To do this, I reset the image and applied the Black & White preset from Visual Flow’s Crush pack.

Then, I added global adjustments including lowering the exposure and turning up the de-haze as well as clarity over the entire image.

Next, I added the graduated filter and pulled the exposure down over the sky. I added more de-haze as well as clarity over just the sky.

For my last adjustment, I kicked up overall contrast a bit over the entire image and this is the final before and after.

Conclusion

I hope you enjoyed this article/video. Just because the sky appears flat and uninteresting during overcast lighting, doesn’t mean you can’t still capture great photos. Landscape photographers especially, can rest assured knowing there is still plenty of detail left in the sky. Try out these tips next time the sky is overcast and see what incredible photos you can end up with!

For more tips and tricks on mobile phone photography, check out Creative Photography 101 from our Premium Library. To get presets like the one I used in this video, visit Visual Flow where we have a full library of intuitive lighting based presets and retouching tools. Thanks for watching!

Video: Back to the Basics: Mobile Phone Portrait Photography Tips

I wanted to get back to the basics take another go at mobile phone portrait photography again. I love minimalistic challenges like this because it helps us break from our reliance on flashy and expensive gear. Keeping our gear minimal forces us to learn to work with what’s around us. I encourage you to try the same and focus on honing your technique. I’ll be photographing my friend Alyssa, and I’ll also be editing right in my phone using Adobe Lightroom Mobile. Let’s jump in.

Image #1: Dappled Light

Dappled light can provide great dramatic highlights and patterns in an image. Here, we have a location with dappled light shining through the trees behind me. I’ll begin by showing you dappled light done wrong with this plain walk-up shot.

Instead, I moved Alyssa to the stairs and positioned her face right in one of the sunbeams.

Rather than taking an image from my own height, I angled from below. I flipped my camera to get the lens closer to the ground.

Editing the Image

Lightroom Mobile isn’t the place to be editing an image from scratch. Rather, I recommend using presets to start and fine tune using the editing tools provided. If you install your presets on Lightroom CC Desktop, they’ll automatically sync with Lightroom Mobile. I selected Visual Flow’s Modern Pack > Hard Light. Then, I added a radial gradient and pulled the exposure down to create a vignette.

Here’s the final before and after.

Image #2: Flat Portrait Lighting

The shade provided a lot of soft light and I wanted to use that for our next image. The flat lighting at this location was perfect for a simple portrait. The trick is to face the open sky while standing in the shade.

For our composition, I had Alyssa sit on the windowsill. The window creates a natural frame for our image.

To demonstrate portrait mode, I had Alyssa stand in front of the wall and took some images. With portrait mode, you can adjust the f-stop by clicking the “f” in the corner after taking the image. Since the bokeh is artificially generated, you have a lot of flexibility as to how you want the final image to look.

I applied the same technique to the composition against the windowsill. I flipped the camera again in order to get a low angle. Before jumping into Lightroom, I set the f-stop on the image to f/1.4, as you won’t be able to change that after importing.

Editing the Image

I selected the Modern Pack > Soft Light to start. I lowered the exposure and added the vignette using the radial gradient.

Here’s the final image.

Image #3: HDR Portrait

For my next image, I chose a location with a high dynamic range. I also wanted to use the ultra-wide angle lens. I had Alyssa sit on the stairs with the sun behind her.

However, if I just take a simple picture, I could lose the hairlight if her head is in front of a bright area. Instead, I angled so her head is in front of a dark part of the building to let the hairlight stand out. Notice the difference.

Here’s the final composition.

Editing the Image

I began with Modern Pack > HDR Natural. I adjusted the exposure and created a slight vignette.

For this image, I bumped up the clarity and de-haze for the extra pop for this final image.

Conclusion

The phone is a powerful tool. We captured and edited all of these images in a very short time span. By limiting my gear to just the phone, I was able to focus on taking compelling images rather than worrying about gear. I highly encourage you to try the same challenge and put your creativity to the test. For a complete course on mobile phone photography, check out Creative Photography 101 from our Premium Channel. Also, be sure to check out Visual Flow for intuitive lighting-based presets like we used here.

I hope you enjoyed this article/video and stay tuned for more photography tips, tricks, and challenges!