Photography. It always had a special place within ourselves. From the time of black-and-white images to the present day, when many content is often difficult to understand without a visual representation. Creating photos seems easy. But is it really? Let’s take a look at how to make a quality photograph that attracts the eye and the attention.

In times of no smartphones, it took a lot of effort to get a good photograph. We first had to buy a good camera and the right photo editing software on a desktop computer, which was followed by getting acquainted with the programs, which required extra time and energy. Today, though, we have a photography on a platter so to speak, thanks to smartphones and processing apps. High quality photos, which companies themselves can use to communicate on various channels, can be created with a device we once used only to make calls and send text messages. Still, creating a quality photograph is not as easy as it might seem.

So what’s the secret to a good photo taken with a smartphone?

Align the subject in the photo correctly

One of the easiest and simplest secrets to make a photo better is to turn the grid on your mobile on. This displays the lines that are based on the golden ratio (or the rule of thirds) principle when the camera is turned on. This is a basic photo rule that divides a photo vertically and horizontally into three equal parts. This creates nine equal spaces. Based on the golden ratio, a photo turns out best when interesting elements are placed at the intersection of those lines.

This makes a photo much more balanced and, as such, works naturally for the viewers. Also, you always align your photo using the grid and further refine it.

Focus on one motive

Many good photos contain only one interesting motive. Next time you take a photo, make sure that this motive does not take up the whole frame. It should occupy one-third of the display, leaving the remaining two blank or in the background. This is how we make sure the key motive stands out.

Another trick worth keeping in mind: make sure you touch the screen every time before you press the “trigger” button. This sharpens the motive and optimizes the lighting.

Don’t be afraid of negative space

A negative space represents the area around and between the motive of a photograph. It can be the expanse of sky and water, an empty field, a high wall… By having a large amount of negative space, the motive will “breathe” and stand out much more, triggering a stronger interaction with the viewer.

Take photos from different perspectives

Photographing from a different, unexpected angles creates a special kind of depth and height illusion that catches everyone’s eye. Your photo will stand out because most of the photos taken with a smartphone are taken facing forward.

Play with perspective next time. Try pointing your smartphone up (at the same time playing with the empty sky) or take a photo with a slight downward angle.

Play with reflections and shadows

Do you also find it completely idyllic to see a piece of colorful sky or white clouds reflecting in water or a small puddle? There is a reason. Reflections catch our eye very much. The next time you see a puddle, larger bodies of water, a mirror, a glass, sunglasses, a metal surface or a store window, play with the reflections offerring themselves to you.

Shadows can also be a key to good photograph. They help create interesting compositions and add a special, natural contrast to the photo.

Repeating patterns

Whenever powerful graphic elements are repeated over and over, this can be in the form of lines, geometric shapes or colors, pick up your smartphone and take a photo. Repeating patterns can make a really strong visual impression and allow you to take creative photos.

Find symmetry

Symmetry creates exactly the right ratio of harmony and balance and is therefore extremely pleasing to the eye.

In photography, symmetry means creating an image that can be divided into two equal parts, which are in fact mirror images of each other. This is to be understood somewhat differently from reflection since symmetry exists in nature, too.

Finally, it’s important to have fun while taking photos. We can always take a shot or two more, so it is worth taking the time to try out something new, unusual. And don’t forget – the purpose of photography is to play with it!