Now that everyone has access to a camera in their back pocket, it seems that more people are beginning to find the fun of taking pictures in their daily lives. For most people, having this camera in their smartphone means that they likely aren’t going to invest in a lot of fancy equipment, but they may still want to take some fun trick shots from time to time.
Whether you have a DSLR or a smartphone camera, you can have some fun using these five easy tricks.
Create Your Own Bokeh
Bokeh, or the look of little glowing orbs in the picture is really easy to replicate using confetti made out of aluminum foil. Cut out many, many small shapes out of aluminum foil, and pose your subject. Right before you take the image, throw the aluminum foil confetti into the air above them. On the image, they’ll appear to be tiny glowing specks that can give a fun look to the shot.
Make a Splash
This trick works best if you can adjust the shutter speed of your camera. Some smartphone apps may allow this, as can taking a “burst” of photos. Position your object on a waterproof surface, and make sure that it’s really well lit. Set the shutter speed as fast as possible for the camera you’re using, and toss a glass of water onto the object just as you make the snap.
Shoot Through a Magnifying Glass
Want to get some crazy details on everyday items? Shoot your photo through the lens of a magnifying glass. Depending on the strength of the glass, you can get some seriously clear images. Keep in mind, however, that some cheaper magnifying glasses may warp your images, but that can be used to create some interesting effects as well.
Create a Vintage Look
Have you ever seen old photos that are blurred on one side or on the edges, while the subject is clear? There’s an easy trick to get this look with modern technology. Turn off your flash, and grab a flashlight or a lighter. Hold the light source up to the side of the lens, just out of view and take the photo. The odd light source will blur out the side of the photo, giving it that vintage feel.
Split Your Screen
Want to divide your screen to make it look like two photos in one? Grab some transparent fishing line, and hold it taut across the area you’re photographing, right in front of the lens. It will subtly distort the image when you shoot, dividing the frame.
Have Some Fun with Your Photography
You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment to create some fun effects. Use these tricks to take your photography in a new direction and have a little fun with your photos.