Instagram has revolutionized the way we share visual mediums such as photographs and videos. It is a platform for showcasing your creativity by encompassing your unique perspective into an image. On Instagram, you need to be on top of your a-game when it comes to shooting and posting photographs, as quality images go a long way in terms of engagement and likes. Whether you're new to the platform or simply looking to enhance your Instagram skills, we have some tips to help you capture gorgeous Instagram photos anywhere.

Select The Right Equipment

Start by having the proper equipment for taking Instagram shots. The main items include a tripod, camera or smartphone, and a clicker to remotely take images of yourself.  Whether using a smartphone or a camera, it is beneficial if you use shooting equipment with a monitor so you can see the images being taken and adjust your angles accordingly. Additionally, if your camera comes with a flip screen, be sure to turn it to face the set.

Karoo Compact Tripod Kit and Desview R72 7-Inch On-Camera Touch-Screen HDR Field Monitor

To create the photography set up, start by placing the camera and secure it in place on the tripod and if you're using a smartphone, ensure your tripod comes with a smartphone bracket for use with different mobile devices. If you want to place the smartphone at a higher angle that cannot be achieved by using a tripod, we recommend investing in a light stand with a smartphone clamp that can support the load of the phone for capturing different angles. If you choose to include product photos or food photos, you can also invest in a tabletop boom stand that can hold your smartphone in place to capture overhead shots of smaller objects by offering additional stability to the setup and capturing your Instagram-worthy shot.

Extendable Mini Tripod With Smartphone Bracket, Universal SmartPhone Tripod Light Stand For Video Recording And Photography and 360° Smartphone Table-Top Boom Stand For Flat Lay, Live Streaming

Adjust Shooting Settings

When using a camera or smartphone, feel free to adjust the settings to suit your photography needs. For example, many smartphones come with modes such as panorama and portrait mode to capture different compositions that can help you produce unique shots. Another recommendation is that you switch on the continuous burst mode setting, which takes multiple shots in quick succession so you can change your poses fast. You can even set up the auto timer and shutter speed if you can't change your poses quickly enough and require some thinking time so you can capture different angles during the continuous burst mode, making it easier to find the one shot that is perfect for your Instagram page.

Have Good Lighting

Lighting is important to make your images stand out, and it is important to get the right lighting, especially if you're taking images with a camera phone that cannot take raw photographs, unlike professional cameras like DSLR, which makes it easy to edit images. If you're going for natural lighting, you need to make sure that you're shooting at good times of the day where you're getting enough sunlight coming in, so shooting before the sun reaches its peak or before sunset is bound to produce the best results. It is best to avoid direct sunlight as it can lead to overexposed images, and the harsh lighting can lead to unwanted shadows unless that is the look you are going for.

If you don't want to shoot using natural light, you can also go for artificial lighting such as ring lights, as it can effectively light up your face and frame your features in a soft glow without overexposing. Alternatively, you can also go for daylight-balanced super soft LED such as LEDs for softer lighting that creates more aesthetically pleasing images.

On-The-Go LIVE VIDEO Reporter Ring Light Kit (Suitable DSLR Camera)-Battery Included and GLOWPAD 350S Slim-Profiled Daylight Balanced LED Panel

You can also set up basic softbox lighting  if you want more diffused lighting and even use reflectors to highlight the subject and remove or lighten any shadows. The ideal lighting setup depends on your preferences, location, and timing of the shoot as they determine the intensity required for a well-lit set.

1050W EzyLite Softbox Twin-Head Continuous Lighting Kit and 100x150cm (39.3"X59.0") 5in1 Reflector With Grip Handles

Know Your Angles

The tripod is your best friend when adjusting camera angles, and finding the right angle depends on your personal preference, as you might choose to accentuate different features to produce more flattering images. To produce a more elongated image, you can shoot from a lower angle that makes your limbs appear longer, but if you want to eliminate a double chin or place increased focus on facial features, we recommend shooting from a higher angle.

Camera angles are not the only important consideration when shooting for Instagram, as you have to be aware of your best angles. There are multiple shooting angles for your face and body, including full face, 3/4^th view, 2/3^rd view, and profile view. We recommend trying out different angles to see which one flatters your face shape and body shape the most. While taking photos, especially on continuous burst mode, play with different angles of your head and change your poses very slightly in every single photo, so you have multiple angles and facial expressions to choose from before you edit them to produce a single shot worthy of your Instagram feed.

Conclusion

Your Instagram feed is a reflection of your personality and creativity as it allows you to create an image that is worth a thousand words if you introduce proper angles and nuances that add depth and quality to your images. By using our basic tips, you can create images that can inspire and amaze your viewers while enhancing your photography skills. Once you have a better understanding of equipment, lighting, angles, and camera settings, there's nothing holding you back from creating visual Instagram masterpieces.