In Colorado, we love winter. The snow, mountains, and snow covered trees provide great contrasts and gorgeous landscapes. There is just something about a canvas of snow that creates some of the best-looking photos…next to spectacular senior photos (shameless plug, sorry). But, snow covered landscapes can also be a little tricky with your smartphone to get them dialed in just right. Since we know a lot of you like to get up to the mountains for skiing, snowboarding, or to just hang out and relax, we have some tips to help you capture great Colorado winter scapes with your iPhone or Android device.
Essentials for Winter Smartphone Photography
Here are a few basics you should consider if you are taking your phone out of some winter shooting.
Dress for the Weather – Bundle up in breathable layers. If you are skiing, you are probably doing this anyway.
Touchscreen Gloves – It is a good idea to invest in a good pair of warm gloves that also work on your touchscreen.
Battery Pack – In colder temperatures, your battery will drain more rapidly. So, even if you are just skiing or boarding, it is a good idea to have an extra battery pack. Also, when not using the phone, keep it stored in an inner pocket close to your body.
Winter Smartphone Photography: After the Storm
The best snowscape photographs are shot just after the storm passes and as the weather is clearing. This provides some cloud cover for the perfect amount of light. Also, this will not task your phone to have to distinguish different colors.
Winter Smartphone Photography: Avoid Direct Sunlight
We know that there is nothing more beautiful than our blue skies, the sun, and white snow. But, shooting white snow and with deep shadows that result from the direct sunlight, creates havoc with the white balance. Depending on your phone, you can adjust the white balance settings, but you may need an app such as Camera+ for iPhone or CameraZoomFX for Android.
Go to the app of your choice and find the white balance settings. Then, take photos of the snow while adjusting the balance until you get a picture that most closely resembles the real landscape.
Winter Smartphone Photography: Go Black and White
On a cloudy, gray, or snowy day, light gets diffused in all sorts of directions. So, these winter days are an opportunity for you to discover your inner Ansel Adams and shoot in black and white. Also, when shooting in black and white, you should increase the contrast setting and adjust the brightness. You will come away with some stunning black and white photos that look better than the real-life landscape.
How to Use This Information
March is our snowiest month. So, you may have plenty of opportunities to get out and take some great winter scene photographs. If you are a shutterbug, we hope these tips help you. And, if you are looking for a great family portrait or even a session with your BFF or senior pictures, give us a call at 303-798-8229 or schedule online.