5 Tips for Taking Captivating Shots With the iPhone X

By Lori Janeson

Whenever a new iPhone comes out, it’s not unusual for die-hard Apple fans queue overnight for a chance to get their hands on it. For some, a new handset means a higher resolution or access to unique third-party apps. For amateur and professional photographers alike, it’s all about the camera.

That’s why we’ve put together a list of five tips for taking captivating shots with your new iPhone X and its two impressive 12 megapixel rear cameras.

1. Learn to Use Portrait Mode

One of our favourite things about the iPhone X is its finely tuned ability to separate the subject from the background. Utilizing portrait mode will help you create a bokeh effect. Put simply, this effect causes the background to soften while keeping your subject crisp and sharp for a portrait that really pops.

 

“For the most effective use of portrait mode, make sure you’re positioned around 6-8 feet of your subject.” — Lori Janeson

 

The iPhone X has a clever inbuilt system that will instruct you to ‘move closer’ or ‘move further away’ to get into optimum position for your shot.

2. Try out the Flash

Gone are the days when using flash meant risking completely washing out your image.  Using iPhone X’s latest technology, Slow Sync, your camera can now capture warm-toned, flattering images in low light using Quad-LED True Tone flash. This mode is perfect for dimly lit restaurants or outdoor settings after sunset.

3. Use a Tripod in Low Lighting

One way to dramatically increase the odds of getting a sharp image after dark is to use a tripod. The less light available, the longer the exposure required. This means that you’ll need to keep your iPhone X steady and stationary for a longer period to avoid blurring. Fortunately, with smartphone photography growing in popularity, there are stacks of compatible mounts and tripods available that won’t break the bank or take up much space.

4. Take Photos in Bursts

While not a new feature, we encourage you to revisit the burst feature on your new iPhone X to increase your chances of getting a killer shot. Burst mode allows you to shoot 10 pictures per second by holding down the shutter button. This mode is ideal for family photos, where at least one person is bound to blink!

5. Experiment with Live Photo Effects

Another feature that has improved with the introduction of the iPhone X is Live Photo Effects. Now you can capture waterfalls or flickering flames in all their glory by using the Long Exposure effect. Also be sure to check out ‘Bounce’, iOS’s built-in version of Boomerang. This effect plays the frames of your video then immediately reverses them in a boomerang effect.

And there you have it, using these five tips, you’ll be able to wow family and friends with the quality of your iPhone X photos.

 

Lori Janeson is a nature photographer living in Winnipeg, Manitoba.