May 1, 2022

Checkout iPhone Life - Photo Class

iPhone Life is a resource that several members of RenSoc have enjoyed. Their new iPhone Camera Live course offers the first lesson - free! You are familiar with Zoom and might appreciate the review of lessons on using the iPhone Camera -  Tap/Click here to watch a replay of the first lesson. iPhone Life has a different approach than this RS course, and if you take advantage of their limited time discount of 40% off you get other upcoming classes, archived classes, user guides and access to help line. Membership is available on monthly or annual basis

When I listened to the free episode, there were tips we covered in class and some that were not covered. One recommendation by senior instructor Cullen Thomas (with a cinemaphotography background) was to set the aspect ratio to 16:9 (or 9:16) for more cropping options. "WAIT A MINUTE!" I screamed. Then pulled out my iPhone to test his theory. My research revealed the sensor in the iPhone has an 4:3 aspect ratio natively. I avoid using square (1:1) or other aspect ratios when shooting because the picture is not using the full sensor. Photos can easily be edited for exposure and crop on the iPhone after taking a picture. It might be best to not fill the frame, edge-to-edge, so you can crop, print and frame your photos.  

Cullen and Donna covered many hints for better photography, and the most important tip is to avoid digital zoom beyond the lenses of your iPhone. Tap the 1X, 2X-3X or .5X instead of pinching to Zoom in. Also, use your feet to Zoom - walk towards your subject for the best framing (unless you are on the edge of the Grand Canyon ...).