The latest high-resolution smartphones have ushered in a new era. Even professional photographers on assignment for leading magazines are starting to realize that there are moments when a handy, inconspicuous palm-sized phone will capture a shot that could be beyond even the most advanced pro camera.
But this needn’t mean we’re regressing into an era where mindless repetitive point-and-shoot selfies are going to be the new Pulitzer winners. To shoot pro-quality holiday shots with your phone you’re going to have to start thinking like a pro. Here’s how:
PRACTICE, PRACTICE, PRACTICE
Stone jumper in Nias, Indonesia
F/8 AND BE THERE
Becak rider in Sumatra, Indonesia
COMPOSE YOURSELF
Reflection of a minaret in a rain-washed patio in Kendari, Indonesia
DON’T BE FLASHY
Sunrise in Borobudur, Indonesia
SLOW IT DOWN
Motion blur used to capture the swirling, glutinous—and surprisingly delicious—texture of sago paste in Sulawesi, Indonesia
USE A DECOY
Kids in Nias, Indonesia—notice how ignoring the rule of thirds has isolated the kids in the middle of their environment, making them look smaller, and how close focusing has helped to blur the complicated background
GET CLOSE
Sometimes the toughest thing is remembering to shoot before you eat
SHOOT FROM THE HIP
Fish market in Sulawesi, Indonesia
MAKE NO ROOM FOR ZOOM
Monsoon rolling over Nambo Beach, Indonesia
DON’T PHOTOGRAPH THINGS, PHOTOGRAPH LIGHT
The last wave at Nias, Indonesia
TO APP OR NOT TO APP
Indonesian mosque
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