A few more tips and tricks

 

Cameras vs iPhones

We’re in the photo business so want to work with the highest quality files we can. If you have a DSLR, then great! If not, your iPhone is also capable of producing high quality images. Keep reading for more tips on how to maximize your device.

Ignore Portrait Mode

As incredible as iPhone technology is, please don’t use Portrait Mode. These modes work by trying to replicate what is known as “bokeh” or the blurred background that you often see in portrait photography. Sometimes iPhone technology can blur too much of the image which makes it difficult for us to extract the parts of the image we need. Stick to the normal camera mode for this and you’ll get a better result.

Shoot from eye level

The angle and level on which you take your image is an important consideration. For best results, take the photograph at the eye level of your subject. This often means you will need to kneel or squat if you are photographing young people. If squatting, make sure you can still hold the camera steady to avoid camera shake.

Work with the light

Light is perhaps the single most important factor in taking a quality photo. A lack of light can result in blurry or grainy images as your camera works at maximum capacity to try and focus on the subject at hand. If you can find a space that has great natural light then your photos will better off. If you’re the photographer, keep the sun (or other light source) behind you. If you’re the subject, make sure you’re facing into the light.

Backgrounds

Plain or solid colour backdrops are critical for us to remove the background from the subject. Please try to avoid exposed brick walls or any backdrop that is a similar colour to what your subject is wearing.

Shoot wide enough

When framing your photo, make sure you include enough space around the head, shoulders, arms and elbows. Images can be cropped from about mid-thigh.

Clean props

If you want to use a prop in your image such as a basketball, football or soccer ball- fantastic! Try to avoid using props that are dirty or have your name and phone number visible. Please also refer to our suggested poses page for the most effective ways to incorporate your sports equipment in to your image.