ZonaJakarta – Everyone wants their Instagram, TikTok, or even just their camera roll to look vibing. But you don’t need expensive gear or complicated setups to capture content that feels straight out of Pinterest.
Your smartphone is more powerful than you think, and with a few simple tricks, you can take aesthetic photos and videos that stop the scroll.
You don’t need a fancy camera to create beautiful, eye-catching photos or videos. With just your smartphone and a few simple tips, you can capture stunning content that looks professional and artistic.
So, here’s how to turn everyday moments into aesthetic masterpieces!
1. Find the Good Light (Golden Hour Is Your BFF)
Lighting is everything. Natural light is your best friend—try to shoot during the “golden hour” (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) when the light is soft and warm. Avoid harsh midday sun that creates strong shadows.
Lighting can make or break your photo. The best light is:
- Golden hour: shortly after sunrise or before sunset (warm, soft, dreamy)
- Natural window light: for indoor shots, stand facing a window
- Overcast skies: clouds = soft, even light without harsh shadows
You can also use lamps or ring lights to brighten your subject evenly. But, please, avoid using your phone’s flash—it can make photos look harsh and unnatural.
2. Keep Your Lens Clean
It sounds simple, but a dirty lens can make your photos blurry or hazy. Wipe your phone’s camera lens gently with a soft cloth before shooting.
3. Use the Rule of Thirds (But Break It Sometimes)
Turn on your camera’s grid in settings. This divides the screen into 9 squares. Place your subject where the lines cross—not always in the center—for a more balanced, aesthetic shot.
But hey, rules are meant to be broken. If symmetry feels right, go for it. Trust your eye.
4. Choose a Vibe & Stick to It
Before you start snapping, ask yourself:
- Do I want warm, cozy café vibes?
- Or cool, clean, minimal content?
- Am I going vintage or modern?
Pick a color palette or theme and let that guide your editing and framing. This helps your feed (or mood board) feel cohesive and intentional.
5. Frame It Creatively
Instead of shooting from eye level, try:
- Shooting from below (makes subjects look taller or more dramatic)
- Taking flat lays (top-down shots of food, objects, outfits)
- Using reflections (mirrors, windows, puddles)
- Shooting through objects (like leaves or curtains for a dreamy blur)
- Move around your subject. Sometimes the best shot is a few steps to the left.
6. Focus and Exposure
Tap on your subject on the screen to focus. This also adjusts the exposure (brightness). Slide your finger up or down to make the image lighter or darker until it looks just right.
7. Details Matter (Even the Background)
The most aesthetic content feels intentional. That means:
- Declutter your background: a clean, uncluttered background helps your subject stand out.
- Look for plain walls, nature scenes, or minimalist settings. Too much clutter can distract from your main focus.
- Match your outfit or objects with your setting
- Pay attention to symmetry, leading lines, and color coordination
- Even if it’s a “casual” moment—give it a little care.
8. Use Your Camera’s Features
Your phone might have tools you’re not using yet:
- Portrait mode: blurs background for dreamy depth
- Manual/Pro mode: control focus, ISO, shutter speed
- Grid lines: for perfect framing
- HDR: balances shadows and highlights
- Take a minute to explore your camera settings. You might be surprised!
9. Keep Your Phone Steady
Blurry photos happen when the phone moves. Hold your phone with both hands, brace your elbows against your body, or use a small tripod or phone stand for stability.
10. Keep It Smooth for Videos
For aesthetic video:
- Use your phone’s stabilizer (many have it built-in)
- Walk slowly and smoothly while filming
- Use a tripod or rest your phone on a surface for steady shots
- Record in 60fps for that buttery smooth slow-mo look
Bonus tip: Film extra seconds before and after your shot so you can cut it just right when editing.
11. Edit Like a Pro (With Just Your Phone)
You don’t need Photoshop. Try these free or affordable apps:
- VSCO: for clean, moody filters
- Lightroom Mobile: for custom lighting edits
- CapCut or VN: for easy video editing
- Tezza: for trendy presets and overlays
- Keep your edits subtle. A little brightness, contrast, or color correction can go a long way.
Pro tip: Save your own presets or filter combos so your content has a consistent vibe.
12. Less Perfection, More Presence
Sometimes, the most aesthetic photo isn’t perfectly posed or edited. It’s the one that feels real, cozy, or just right. Don’t overthink it.
Capture what feels beautiful to you—not just what trends say.
Final Thoughts: Your Phone Is Your Canvas
You don’t need the latest iPhone or expensive filters to create something amazing. You just need good light, a creative eye, and a little intention. Let your personality come through, try new angles, and most importantly—have fun with it.
With these simple tips, your smartphone can become a powerful tool for creating beautiful, aesthetic photos and videos.
Remember, it’s not about having the most expensive gear—it’s about seeing the world creatively and capturing moments that feel special to you. So grab your phone, start shooting, and enjoy the art of storytelling through your lens! (*)
