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iphone Photo Hacks: How to Take Better Pics of Yourself at Home In Charleston, SC

📱✨Because you don’t need a ring light and a tripod to look like a goddess.


Let’s Talk Selfies… But Make Them Stunning

You know those mornings when your coffee’s hot, your skin’s glowing, and you just want to capture the vibe? But then you snap a pic, look at it… and yikes. Not quite the magical main-character energy you were feeling? We’ve all been there. The good news? You don’t need a professional camera or a million filters. You can take great photos of yourself at home — with just your iphone and a few pro tips. Let's Dive In!!


1. Turn Off Overhead Lights 🙅‍♀️💡

That ceiling light? It’s not your friend. Overhead lighting casts harsh shadows and can make anyone look tired.

Instead: Use natural light. Stand facing a window (indirect sunlight is best) for soft, flattering glow. Natural light smooths out skin tones and brings that sparkle to your eyes.


2. Clean Your Lens (No, Really) 🧼📷

Happy young woman with a huge smile wearing a scarf taking a selfie in a park photographed by Arthur Ellis Photography

Your iphone’s camera lens lives in the bottom of bags, back pockets, and under toddler snacks. A smudgy lens = blurry, dull photos.

Quick fix: Wipe it clean with your shirt or a microfiber cloth. It takes two seconds and makes a huge difference.


3. Use a Timer or Voice Command ⏱️🗣️

Arm's-length selfies never do anyone justice.

Instead:

  • Prop your iphone on a windowsill or a stack of books.

  • Set a 3- or 10-second timer.

  • Or try “Hey Siri, take a photo” if you're hands-free.

Bonus tip: Bluetooth remotes are cheap and life-changing.


4. Find Your Best Light and Angle 🔄✨

Everyone has a “better side” — it’s not vanity, it’s just angles and light.

Try this:Turn slightly left and right in front of the camera. Tilt your chin forward and slightly down to avoid double-chin shadows and give your jawline a little love.


5. Add a Little Movement 💃

Don’t freeze like it’s a driver’s license photo. Movement adds energy and confidence.

Try:

  • Running your hand through your hair mid-shot

  • Walking toward the camera

  • Laughing or breathing out slowly as the shutter clicks

The goal? Make the photo feel like you.

Smiling woman in a quiet street wearing a sweater taking a selfie at night photographed by Arthur Ellis Photography

6. Edit Lightly (But Kindly) 🎨

There’s no shame in polishing your photos — just don’t filter yourself into someone else.

Simple edits to try:

  • Increase brightness slightly

  • Boost contrast for depth

  • Use apps like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile to keep things natural but refined

You’re not hiding imperfections — you’re enhancing your glow.


7. Be Kind to the Girl in the Frame 💖

This one’s big. Don’t scroll through your camera roll like a critic looking for flaws.

You are joy. You are style. You are strength. When you take a photo of yourself, you're not chasing perfection — you're capturing a moment.


You’re the Art (No pun intended) — The iphone’s Just the Brush

You don’t need the perfect outfit, lighting, or hair day to take a beautiful photo.

What you do need:

  • A little patience

  • A little confidence

  • And a lot of kindness toward yourself

And hey — if you ever want to move beyond iphone selfies and step into a full-on portrait experience, I’ve got you. It’s what I do best.


📸 Book your portrait session here — and let’s create something magical together.


Empowering

You don’t need permission to see yourself as beautiful. Snap the photo. Love the photo. Post the photo — or don’t. But always remember: you are art. Your portrait session is a celebration of your beauty, your legacy, and your story.

Let’s make sure your outfit is just the cherry on top.


💬 Feeling inspired? Let’s book your Charleston, SC luxury portrait session and create something stunning — wardrobe included. 👉 Book your complimentary consultation today! — or just reach out with a question. I’m here for you.


💡Want More Prep Tips?

  • Not sure how to pose? Check out 3 Foolproof Posing Tricks to Look and Feel Confident

OR


✨ Thanks for reading, beautiful.

You deserve to be seen, celebrated, and remembered — and I’m honored to help you do just that.


📅 Next week’s post: “FILL THIS IN!" 


Arthur Ellis is a published Charleston, SC portrait photographer. He specializes in revealing the beauty in everyone. His passion is to give lasting memories. Your satisfaction is his guarantee, and your timeless memories is his promise. Schedule your Complimentary Consultation Here




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