Do you ever scroll social media looking at all the gorgeous photography in your news feed and wish you too could take stunning photos of your family?

Well, I have a little secret to tell you. 

You can.

If you own a smartphone and have the desire to capture gorgeous photos, similar to the ones you see filling your social sites, this blog is for you! Trust me, there are no prerequisite skills required. Just you, some subject matter, and a smartphone.

TAKE STUNNING PHOTOS OF YOUR FAMILY

(in 4 easy-to-follow steps)

1. Find the right light. 

Light is one of the most important things when it comes to taking a good photo and following just a few crucial steps will make all the difference.  

• When taking a photo or video with your forward-facing camera, be sure you are facing the source of light. 
• Walk around your space and find the most even light for your photos.
• Turn off overhead lights to avoid shadowing. 
• When taking photos of your friends and family make sure you are positioning them in ways that take advantage of the light you’re working with.

2. Pay attention to the background.

What is happening in the background of your photos?

Is there anything distracting your audience from your main subject? If so, simply move some things around or change positions in order to create a clean and clear background free of distractions. 

3. Follow the rule of thirds. 

When you’re taking your photos, deliberately position your main subject off-center. Our eyes naturally focus on the four corners of any photo, so place your subjects closer to those areas in order to grab your audience’s attention. But don’t overthink it, just remember not to place your main subject smack dab in the center! 

4. Take a few seconds to edit your photos.

You don’t need fancy software or expensive programs to edit your photos. I simply use the free Lightroom App and presets that I downloaded directly to my smartphone.

In Lightroom you will:

1. Select the photo you want to edit.
2. Apply a preset to your photo. You can snag mine here.
3. Save the edited photo to your phone. 
4. Share with the world like you’re a professional.

You can easily take stunning photos of your family to fill the walls of your home and the squares in your news feed. Don’t feel the need to hire a professional twenty times a year (although, I do recommend you splurge for that at least once a year). You have everything you need to take your own gorgeous photos right in your hands! 

Want a more in depth tutorial? I teach a free phone photography class, you can join here!!

SO LET’S RECAP: 

1. Look at the light. Where is it coming from?
2. Look at your background. Is it too busy?
3. Look at your positioning. Can you make your main subject slightly off-center?
4. Edit your photos using really fun presets. 
5. Have fun and be creative! 

If you try these simple tips and love the results, will you tag me over on Instagram @mkoehler? I’d love to see the beauty they help you to create! 

Want a more in depth tutorial? I teach a free phone photography class, you can join here!!

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