Are you on vacation but your photos still don’t look aesthetic? Even though you’re already wearing a cool outfit and the spot is gorgeous, somehow the pictures still look ordinary on camera? Don’t worry, you don’t need an expensive camera to get Instagram-worthy holiday photos. The truth is, today’s smartphone cameras are already advanced enough as long as you know how to maximize them.
From composition and lighting to simple editing techniques, everything can help level up your results. Here are five effective tricks to make your holiday photos look Instagram-worthy and ready to upload to your feed without a second thought!
Instagram-Worthy Holiday Photos: Here’s How to Take It
Source: Pinterest
Summarized from multiple sources, here are several effective tricks to take Instagram-worthy holiday photos:
1. Play with Composition: Don’t Just Snap Randomly
One of the most important tricks in photography is composition. Try using the rule of thirds, which divides your screen into three sections and places the main subject along one of the lines or at their intersections. The grid feature on your phone’s camera can help a lot with this.
Additionally, pay attention to natural lines such as roads, fences, or the horizon to guide the viewer’s eyes through the photo. Avoid shots that feel too crowded or too empty on one side. To make your photos more interesting, you can also use background elements like doors, windows, or even shadows.
2. Make the Most of Natural Light
Natural light can be your best friend when it comes to mobile photography. Try taking photos in the morning or late afternoon before sunset, because the sunlight during golden hour is softer and warmer. This makes your skin look glowing and gives your photos a dreamy vibe.
If you’re taking photos in the middle of the day, look for spots with even lighting to avoid overexposure. Avoid standing directly against the light, as it can make your subject appear dark. Unless you’re intentionally going for a silhouette effect, it’s best to skip this trick for now.
3. Use Portrait Mode for More Sharper and Focused Details
Portrait mode isn’t just for selfies, it’s also perfect for OOTD shots or capturing objects with a blurred background. With the background softened, the focus naturally shifts to the main subject. This simple trick instantly gives your photos a more professional look, even when you’re only using a phone.
But make sure to pay attention to distance and lighting, because this mode can sometimes be less accurate when it’s too dark. If possible, shoot from a low angle or at eye level to create a more dramatic effect. Take several shots until you get the best result, after all, trial and error is part of the process!
4. Find Unique Angles and Don’t Be Afraid to Explore
Don’t just take photos from eye level, try shooting from above, below, or from the side. Sometimes, unusual angles create more interesting shots that stand out from the rest. Don’t hesitate to lie down, crouch, or even climb a step or two just to get the perfect composition.
If you’re at a crowded tourist spot, look for gaps or hidden corners that people don’t often notice. Taking photos from unexpected perspectives can make even the most mainstream locations look fresh again. Creativity in choosing angles can be the key to producing cool Instagram pictures !
5. Edit Using Simple Apps
The last tips on how to take Instagram-worthy holiday photos is to edit it. After taking photos, don’t upload them right away without any edits. You can use simple apps like VSCO, Snapseed, or Lightroom Mobile to adjust lighting, contrast, and color tones. But remember, don’t over-edit, since keeping your photos natural will make them look much better.
Editing can also help unify your feed if you like using a certain theme, such as warm tones or pastels. To stay consistent, you can save your favorite presets and reuse them for future photos. No need to make it complicated, what matters most is that the final result still reflects your holiday mood.
Holidays are a perfect time to create memories, and Instagram-worthy photos can be the sweetest reminders. You don’t need expensive gear or complicated techniques, because with these simple tricks, you can take amazing photos using just your phone. Give these tips a try and get your gallery ready for social media!
Check this out, if you want to snap cool pictures for your gram !
