my iphone camera settings: from pro to pocket-size

as someone who used to be a professional photographer, taking a break and selling my camera was never part of the plan. i had every intention of buying a new one, but life got busy. priorities shifted, and getting a new camera fell to the bottom of the list. in the meantime, my iphone became my go-to for capturing moments. learning iphone photography has been a journey, but it’s taught me that you can create beautiful, professional-quality images without a traditional camera.

controlling exposure is key, so i adjust it manually by tapping and sliding on the screen to ensure my shots have the perfect balance of light.

portrait mode is a game changer. even though it’s not a full-frame camera, the depth effect mimics that dreamy background blur (bokeh) that everyone loves, and i can adjust the f-stop for just the right amount of blur.

grid lines stay on for composition. rule of thirds is still my go-to, helping me frame my shots just right.

i turn off live photo for sharper, crisper stills unless i’m intentionally capturing motion.

life with a baby means i’m often snapping in low light, and night mode has become my best friend for evening shots without sacrificing quality.

while I love Lightroom for editing, the iphone’s editing tools are surprisingly powerful. i start by adjusting exposure, contrast, and sharpness, then fine-tune the highlights and shadows.

my iphone camera settings may not be a complete replacement for a professional setup, but it’s proof that you don’t always need the fanciest gear to create beautiful photos. it’s about learning to use what you have and finding creativity in the process. :)