How to Take Better/aEsThEtIc Photos for Instagram
Are you just starting with capturing yourself through camera or video capabilities? Have you been looking for ways to make your photos look more professional, artistic, reflective of who you are or how you feel?
Well, you’re not alone. I’ve been there and firmly believe that a lot of people have been there too -- especially with the onslaught of us who have had to figure out how to look our best over Zoom in the last year or so.
Before we get started with the tips and tricks, here is a before and after at the same location over three years. In the first photo, I asked a friend to be a photographer, and to be quite honest, I had no idea what artistic direction was. All I knew was that I had crafted the perfect outfit to suit my chosen location and wanted to document it before the day was through.
Before
Mural by @art_by_eightytwo
While this photo isn’t particularly bad, the lighting certainly needed work.
Here’s the after, and by after I mean three years later...
After
Mural by @art_by_eightytwo
Do you like cape dresses? I think it’s safe to say that I’ve never met a cape dress that I didn’t like!
This time around, I went to the location by myself and used a tripod to capture the moment. While doing so, I realized how much more skills I had gained from not only having been a design student but immersing myself in information. I finally feel comfortable taking my photos and here are some tips to get you going, too!
How to Take Better/aEsThEtIc Photos for Instagram
Have a plan! Whether that’s a mood board, inspiration photo, or feeling. Plan out what the actual point is of what you’re doing and be confident!
Even if things don’t go exactly to plan, you’ll be able to get back on track with your ideas and vision easily with a plan or point of reference.
Use inspiration as inspiration, don’t just straight up copy people or their ideas. Be unique! Everyone has their distinct flavour to add.
Don’t let anyone stand in your way. People will stare or have opinions but that’s their issue, not yours. Do it for yourself, always!
You don’t need a photographer to take great photos, although they are invaluable, not everyone is available on your schedule. Be comfortable with using your iPhone/smartphone and calling up a friend for help!
Don’t like to ask for help? That’s okay, I’m like that too! Invest in a tripod and make sure it can hold your iPhone/smartphone. Don’t have money for a tripod? No worries! Use a ledge or nook, anything that will get the right view of you.
Natural lighting is all you need, when and if you would like to upgrade, get a ring light!
Utilize the front-facing camera of your iPhone/smartphone and a timer so that you can get into position and see what you’re doing while you’re doing it.
C’mon VOGUE — seriously! Pose and play to your heart’s content, you never know which pose or angle will actually work!
Don’t be afraid of post-production, that means editing -- there are a variety of apps that can upgrade any photo. My personal favorite is Adobe Lightroom. In fact, I prefer Adobe suites above all. Picsart, VSCO, Snapseed, Afterlight, and Unum are apps that I have used in the past. Find one that you like!
The most important — HAVE FUN and EXPERIMENT! You never know until you try!
Do you take your own Instagram photos?
Most of my Instagram features photos that have been taken and curated by me. I love working with fellow creatives and it makes it easier but sometimes you just have to rough it. It’s often more satisfying and you get an even better story! (One time an Uber driver helped me get the perfect shot, this was when I first moved to LA and didn’t know anyone! Wow, time flies!)
Did I miss anything? How do you take your photos? Would you like a more in-depth video on the subject? How about creating videos? Comment here or reach out on socials!
With love,
Victoria and Alpha
P.S:
I included some of the outtakes from this shoot that didn’t make the final cut. Always remember to have fun, be confident, and experiment. YOU define YOU.
And, if you ever need a reminder. I’m here for you.
