We use photos to remember some of the happiest and most exciting moments of our lives. With the advent of smartphones, everyone has a camera in their pocket now. Taking great pictures doesn’t have to be difficult – here are some easy tips you can use to make sure every shot comes out beautifully. Once you take the pictures, you can use ImageCoast for free and affordable digital photo storage.

A photographer taking great photos

Keep Your Background Simple

A big mistake that many people make is trying to fit too many different focal points into one picture. If your background is too distracting, the photo can start to feel very overwhelming and take away from your main subject. Even small objects in the background can be distracting, so stick to solid colors or small patterns.

Easy Tips and Tricks For Great Photos

Clean Your Lens Regularly

Whether you’re shooting on a camera or just on your phone, your lens can get dirty fairly quickly. Dirt and dust can build up over time, making it difficult to capture a clear shot. Regular cleaning ensures that each shot comes out crisp and clear.

Don’t Be Afraid To Edit

It’s easier than ever to edit your photos after taking them to make them look their best. While you don’t want to overdo it with editing, adjusting things like the contrast, exposure, and color saturation can make a huge difference in the end result.

Black and white effect for great photos

Watch Your Light and Shadows

The source of light in your photos can make or break the final result. Before you shoot, take the time to assess where the light is coming from. You’ll want to shoot with your subjects facing the light, as opposed to having the light behind them, which will create unflattering shadows and wash them out. Natural light is typically the most flattering, especially during the sunrise and sunset, which creates a very soft golden glow.

There are some situations where you’ll need to use flash, but you’ll also want to make sure that you don’t overdo it. If you overuse flash, it can end up making your subjects look very washed out. In general, you’ll need to use flash only when you can’t find other flattering sources of light. For example, you may need to use it on cloudy days outdoors, or when indoor lighting is creating unflattering shadows.

Photography is a skill that anyone can learn with a bit of practice. Once you’ve taken your photos, you’ll need a place to store them. ImageCoast offers free and affordable storage for JPG, PNG, and GIF files. You can even create galleries and email your images to your friends!