Your phone camera is good enough. What matters is how you use it. Here are five simple habits that make a big difference.
Use Good Light
Light is everything. Shoot near a window indoors — it's free and flattering. Outside, early morning and late afternoon give the nicest glow. Avoid harsh midday sun.
Turn On the Grid
Open your camera settings and turn on grid lines. Put your subject on one of the lines instead of dead center. Your photos will look better right away.
Get Closer
Most people stand too far away. Walk closer instead of using pinch-zoom — zoom just makes the photo blurry. Fill the frame.
Hold Still and Wipe the Lens
Hold the phone with both hands. Tuck your elbows in. Tap the screen to focus before you shoot. And wipe the lens on your shirt first — fingerprints make photos hazy.
Edit Less
Bump the brightness a little. Add a touch of contrast. Straighten the horizon. Done. The best edits are the ones nobody notices.
Shoot More
Take lots of photos. The more you shoot, the faster you learn what works. That's the whole secret.