“They say that people with concerns are those who never stop learning and trying to contribute something to the world.” That’s the first phrase he uses to describe himself. Rodrigo Rivasprofessional photographer and Efti teacher.
Among the different aspects of this sector, its expertise is located in the mobile photographyan especially practical sector today, since there are high-end devices that allow you to put aside SLR cameras on many occasions — if you know how to use them correctly.
Therefore, when I had the opportunity to attend a master class given by him in which he would offer advice for take the best Christmas photos with your iPhone I didn’t think twice about it, since on these dates I always end up throwing away my phone to photograph my loved ones, my pet or the different images that adorn this time.
As general considerations, he comments on the importance of portrait mode, as well as the opportunity to play with the lights that decorate different spaces (such as those on Christmas trees). In addition, he adds the need to avoid perching and rely on improvisation to take the most natural capture of your loved ones.
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So I’ll get to the point, What are the best tricks to take the perfect Christmas photos with your iPhone?
1. Be aware of the lights
As I told you at the beginning of the article, Rodrigo Rivas highlights the opportunity to use lights of Christmas trees or decorations to take more creative photos. “The union of colored lights or candles will give us more beautiful photos,” she says.
Thanks to Portrait mode and being able to edit the focus point afterwards, you can get artistic photographs that are reminiscent of these dates. Have a front light to the person portrayed will help achieve a better result. But don’t worry too much: Smart HDR and the ability to meter exposure on the iPhone 15 Pro will help you have a good overall exposure of the shot.
2. Plans are essential
Thanks to the different lenses that are in the iPhone 15 Pro Max, there is the possibility of taking photographs with different planes.
For example, group portraits or Christmas scenes are perfect for 24, 38 and 35 mm lenses, to close the shot with the different 2 and 5x telephoto options and get close-ups or shots of distant details.
3. Attention to details
With the help of the iPhone’s macro mode, you can get closer to Christmas details for a different and creative view. “Isolate objects and some plates of food to emphasize their texture and shape,” she says. Also, he remembers that color and light will help you get a better photo: make sure not to cast a shadow on the objects and try to keep them in the central part of the frame. In relation to the latter, the expert has pointed out that, if the shadow is inevitable in a part of the image, it is better that the light is completely covered so that there are no different lights in the image.
4. The colors
Combinations of different tones can create very striking photos. For example, if you mix objects with warm tones and cold tones you will be able to give more contrast to the scene, as well as if complementary colors are used. Also keep in mind that the type of light will alter the saturation and tone of the color.
5. Take advantage of movement
Axel Springer
You can always use Live Photo mode to capture what happens 1.5 seconds before and after each shot, and so on. have, not only the photo, but also that moment in a short video which you can also share later.
6. Don’t forget about the composition
If there is something in every Christmas, it is gifts… and these always lend themselves to making fantastic still lifes.
To do this, you can use overhead shots that help include multiple elements, as well as delicious dishes of food. Using the grid to compose using colors or shapes is a good way to get eye-catching and colorful photographs.. Remember that with the help of the camera level we can know if your iPhone is placed completely perpendicular to the scene you are going to photograph. Of course you can also take the photograph with an inclination of 30-45º, giving greater depth to the still life.
7. The decoration!
Axel Springer
It’s Christmas and I’m sure there is something in your house that can help you give context to these photos. If you are going to take portraits of your friends or family, do not hesitate to use the decoration as an extra: add glasses, garlands or accessories, you will appreciate it!
8. Rhythm can be of great help to you
Snows? Are you singing a Christmas carol? Are you distributing the gifts? Pouring champagne into a glass? Toast? There is a rhythm in every movement, and making a video in slow motion will give it extra originality when you are going to share it on social networks.
9. If you have a pet, be at their level
Axel Springer
As the owner of two furry dogs, I have to admit that taking photos of them is not easy at all. However, Rodrigo Rivas advises get at their level so as not to deform them and use portrait mode so that they come out perfect. “If you want to take a fun photo of your pet, use high or low angle views,” she explains.
10. You don’t have to be in the group photo: use the timer
It seems like there’s always someone who can’t be in the group photo just for the sake of taking the photo, well that’s over! Thanks to the timer—and if you have it, the Apple watch Camera Control—you can leave the iPhone in a stable place to be part of the group portrait.
