Give your Instagram posts (and engagement) a shot in the arm with these three super-simple photography techniques…
Instagram is more than just a social media platform; it’s a visual storytelling medium. With over a billion users, standing out requires more than just snapping a quick photo. It demands a keen eye for composition and an understanding of photography techniques.
Learning the basics of photography isn’t hard. I recently worked my way through this awesome course that literally covers everything you need to know to go pro with your iPhone on Instagram. But for those of you that are looking for some instantly actionable tips for improving your Instagram posts, read on because we have three absolute gems for you below…
How To Take Good Instagram Photos
Here’s a guide to help you elevate your Instagram photography game, ensuring every shot is worth a double-tap.
1. Harness the Power of Leading Lines
Leading lines are a photographer’s secret weapon to create captivating images. These lines guide the viewer’s eyes through the photo, creating a narrative and depth.
- What are they? Think of a winding road, the flow of a river, or the architectural lines of a skyscraper. These are all examples of leading lines.
- How to use them? Start by composing your shot with the lines beginning in the foreground, leading the viewer’s eyes into the distance. This technique creates a profound sense of depth, making the viewer feel as if they’re stepping into the image.
- Types of Leading Lines: They can be straight, converging, curved, or even spiral. The next time you’re out, challenge yourself to spot these lines and use them to enhance your photos.
2. Symmetry: The Art of Balance
There’s something inherently pleasing about symmetry. It’s a composition technique that feels harmonious and grabs attention instantly.
- Why use symmetry? Our brains are wired to appreciate balance and order. Symmetrical compositions feel intentional and instantly captivating.
- Finding Symmetry: Look for scenes that offer perfect balance, like a building’s reflection in a calm pond or a perfectly symmetrical facade.
- Tips for Capturing Symmetry: Use the camera grid to align your shots. For architectural photos, stand directly in front of the structure to ensure both sides are identical. For reflections, split the frame into two halves: the reflection and the actual scene.
3. Embrace Negative Space
Sometimes, less truly is more. Negative space in photography refers to the empty areas around your subject. This technique can make your subject stand out and evoke powerful emotions.
- Why use negative space? A minimalist approach can highlight your subject, drawing the viewer’s attention directly to it. Plus, the vast emptiness can evoke feelings ranging from serenity to anticipation.
- How to Incorporate Negative Space: Use expansive backdrops like clear skies, blank walls, or vast oceans. Position your subject so it appears small, letting the surrounding emptiness emphasize its importance.
- Experiment with Composition: With so much space to work with, don’t be afraid to play around. Position your subject in various parts of the frame to see which composition speaks to you the most.
Make Your Instagram Photos Stand Out
In today’s digital age, where visuals dominate our screens and vie for our attention, the importance of mastering basic photography techniques cannot be overstated. Especially when it comes to platforms like Instagram, where engagement is the currency, the quality of your photos can make or break your online presence.
First and foremost, a well-composed photograph tells a story. It’s not just about capturing a moment; it’s about conveying an emotion, a sentiment, or a message. When viewers scroll through their feeds, they’re more likely to stop and engage with a photo that evokes a feeling or sparks curiosity.
Basic photography techniques, such as understanding lighting, composition, and perspective, play a pivotal role in this. They allow the photographer to present a scene in its best light, literally and figuratively.
Moreover, investing time in learning these techniques showcases professionalism and dedication. It signals to your audience that you value quality and are willing to put in the effort to deliver it. This can significantly boost your credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of your followers.
Additionally, with the plethora of content available online, standing out becomes a challenge. Basic photography skills can be your differentiator. While others post blurry, poorly lit, or over-edited photos, your crisp, well-composed shots will stand out, attracting more likes, comments, and shares.
This not only boosts engagement rates but also increases the chances of your content being shared and seen by a broader audience. Add in some basic hashtag optimization and you’ll be drowning in likes and comments before you know it.
