From apps to IG filters: How to actually level up your indoor summer shots
With the twice extended ECQs and rising COVID-19 cases in the country, it only seems fair to assume that most of us will be spending our summer indoors. Or at least, without the usual travel photos again.
Though it could be a downright summer bummer, it won’t stop the social media savant in all of us to take those Instagram-worthy shots even at home. It could be a way to destress, put yourself out there despite the pandemic, or you know, just because you want to.
If you need new ways to get that picture-perfect indoor shoot, here are some fool-proof ways to upgrade your grid!
Sunlight is your best friend
Just because we’re cooped up doesn’t mean we can’t get some of that Vitamin D. Crack open a window or two and see just how fresh you can get with a little confidence and that warm glow.
If you’re lucky enough to have a garden or open yard, set an alarm for 5 p.m. just in time for the beautiful golden hour—your IG followers will thank you.
No photographer? No problem!
Unfortunately, our photographer friends aren’t around to tell us the best poses or angle for us. A neat trick for solo shots is to set your camera to video mode, record yourself posing or even doing something candid, then screenshot the best pics!
Seriously, this is a great way to save up some storage space and find some unexpected angles. Gone are the days of awkwardly posing and going back-and-forth for self-timed photos. Since the screenshotted video may have a lower quality than the regular lens, check out the app Remini to make your photos HD.
Invest in a film camera
Nothing screams summer like some old-fashioned film shots. It may be nostalgia or that feeling that you have to wait to see how it turns out, but there’ something about film that makes any moment special—even if you’re just hanging out with your pets.
Nowadays, dozens of Fujifilm disposable cameras are available online. Those types of cameras usually come with a roll of film that you can take 12 photos with. You can even have them printed by locating the nearest Fujifilm store and contacting them if you can have the rolls delivered.
It usually takes up to a week to get them developed – so at least you’ll have something to look forward to.
No-filter Filters
Too impatient for film cameras? Instagram’s elite filter creators have got your back. Here are just a few recommended IG filters for that summer vibe effect:
To try out the filters, you only need to visit the creators' Instagram, where you can find their created filters above their grid.
App it up
So you’ve finally got your golden hour shot with the perfect filter and angle. If you’re the type to still want to add a few tweaks to your photos, here are some apps that’ll really make your photos stand out:
NOMO Film App
Comes with: A variety of film “lens” filters like toy cameras, Fujifilm, polaroids, and more.
Tip: Just like polaroids, some lenses require you to shake your camera a few times to get them developed.
Available on: iOS and Android
Snapseed
Comes with: Comprehensive photo manipulation and editing tools
Tip: Use the “expand” tool to widen your shot and get that extra oomph. It does wonders for outdoor shots!
Available on: iOS and Android
Storyluxe
Comes with: Tons of Instagram Story templates to elevate your content for that extra effort look.
Tip: If you’d rather have the final photo as an Instagram post, you can choose to change the photo size from 9:16 (IG story size) to 4:5 (suggested IG post size)
Available on: iOS and Android
