Light quality and shooting conditions change dramatically with the seasons. Knowing the photography tips that take advantage of each season's characteristics will help you take much better photos, even with just a smartphone.
Spring Photography Techniques
How to Photograph Cherry Blossoms and Flowers
When photographing cherry blossoms, using the sky as a backdrop highlights the translucency of the petals. Overcast days actually produce more vivid flower colors, making them surprisingly good for photography. When capturing people with cherry blossoms, blur the blossoms in the background and focus on the person.
Entrance and Graduation Ceremonies
For outdoor group photos, having the sun behind the subjects creates backlight that darkens faces. It's better to move into the shadow of a building or position so the sunlight comes from the side.
Summer Photography Techniques
Dealing with Strong Sunlight
Harsh midsummer direct sunlight creates strong shadows on faces. Move to shade, or use a white wall or white paper as a makeshift reflector to bounce soft light onto subjects.
Waterside and Outdoor Events
At BBQs and beach outings, don't forget waterproofing for your phone. Keeping it in a waterproof case provides peace of mind. Photos capturing water splashes and sparkling sunlight are uniquely summer moments.
Autumn Photography Techniques
How to Photograph Fall Foliage
Autumn leaves look most beautiful when shot in soft morning light. Backlighting makes leaves appear translucent and creates a dreamy effect. Including fallen leaves in the foreground is also a great technique.
Sports Day Photography
Capturing moving children with a smartphone camera is challenging, but using burst mode makes it easier to catch decisive moments. The trick is to position yourself at predetermined shooting spots, like the finish line.
Winter Photography Techniques
Illuminations
When photographing nighttime illuminations, turn the flash OFF. Using flash only brightens the person in front while making the illuminations in the background disappear. Hold your phone firmly with both hands and hold your breath to prevent blur.
Snowy Landscapes
The whiteness of snow can cause the camera to underexpose, so increasing brightness (exposure) slightly produces cleaner results. When you want to photograph snowflakes, use your smartphone's macro mode.
Sharing Photos Right Away Is Best
Event photos are most exciting when shared on the same day. With PicTomo, you can scan a QR code and upload immediately, so the album builds up in real time while you're still at the venue. You'll also enjoy the fun of looking through photos together on the way home.
Summary
When you work with the light and conditions of each season, you can take remarkably better photos even with a smartphone. No special equipment is necessary. Try applying the tips from this article at your next event.