SAY CHEESE: Top 10 Social Media Photo How-To’s
Whether it’s your product or your selfie, we’ve got the tips that’ll have your followers clicking that heart button.
Social media is a visual-first platform and it’s one of the keys to unlocking your business’s success. The right photos can make all the difference! But, let’s be real, taking great pictures for social media can feel like an Olympic sport. Between lighting, backgrounds and finding that perfect angle, it’s a lot to juggle.
But fear not! I’ve got 10 simple and fun tips to help you level up your social media photo game. So grab your camera (or phone!) and let’s SNAP to it!
1. Aspect Ratio: Get It Right for the Best Fit
First things first: make sure your photos are the right size for the platform you’re posting on. If you don’t want your image to look like a pixelated mess, be mindful of aspect ratios.
Instagram: Square (1:1) or Portrait (4:5) for posts, Landscape (1.91:1) for ads or stories
Facebook: Square (1:1) or Landscape (1.91:1)
Pinterest: Vertical images are king! A 2:3 ratio is perfect
Check the specific platform’s photo size guidelines – they're always updating – but these general ratios will set you up for success. You want your photo to show up looking sharp!
2. Backgrounds Matter: Keep It Clean (But Interesting)
A cluttered or distracting background can take the focus off your beautiful product or perfect selfie. So, keep the background in mind before hitting that shutter button.
Products: For product shots, use neutral, clean backgrounds that make your items pop. Think white, gray, or light-colored walls. But don’t be afraid to get creative! A wooden table, a pop of color, or a textured fabric can give your photos a more dynamic feel. Me? I love craft paper and plywood…
Selfies & Personal Shots: Find a background that doesn’t compete with you! Avoid that busy, messy living room and look for something simple - like a nice wall, a plant, or even a solid-colored backdrop. If you’re feeling fancy, try some textured fabrics. They’ll make your shot look high-end without you lifting a finger. Speaking of backgrounds, make sure your fingers aren’t in the foreground. LOL
3. Lighting Is Everything: Natural Light > Flash
Natural light is your BFF. Flash can create unflattering shadows and weird reflections, while sunlight (or soft indoor lighting) gives your photos a natural, warm glow.
Morning or late afternoon light is the best. The sun is softer and creates those gorgeous, warm tones.
If you’re indoors, try to position yourself near a window for some of that sweet, natural light magic. If you're out and about, the golden hour (about 1 hour before sunset) is your best friend.
If natural light is scarce, don’t sweat it—grab a soft light source like a ring light. It’ll keep things flattering without washing you out. I just got this light for my phone and can’t wait to test it out. Lights, camera, action, that’s it…
4. Don’t Fear the Selfie: Tips for Selfie Success
Not a fan of selfies? You’re not alone… Even Tyra Banks has bad hair days! But if you’re running a business or just want to share your fab new look, it’s time to embrace the selfie.
Angle it right: Hold the camera slightly above your eye level (not below—it can make you look like you’re hiding from a flood). This angle makes you look more flattering and gives your photos an effortless vibe.
Smile! (Or don’t, if you’re too cool for that). A relaxed, natural smile or a slight smirk works better than an overly posed grin.
Focus on your eyes: Make sure they’re sharp and in focus! If your eyes are clear and engaging, the rest of the photo will feel alive.
5. Keep Practicing: Perfection is Overrated
Here’s the thing: taking amazing social media photos isn’t going to happen overnight. The more you practice, the better you’ll get. Try different angles, experiment with lighting, and see what works best for you.
Don’t be afraid to take a lot of photos! Snap a dozen shots and pick the one that feels the most authentic. No one expects perfection. And honestly, “perfect” photos often look fake, anyway.
6. Invest in Your Gear… But Start Simple
You don’t need a fancy camera to take great photos. Sure, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will give you top-notch quality, but modern smartphones have insane cameras.
If you have the budget for it, a good quality camera can up your game. But if not? Your phone is more than enough to get you started. Just make sure the lens is clean (yes, we’ve all forgotten that one!) and avoid using the zoom function.
7. Composition: The Rule of Thirds (or Just Don’t Overthink It)
This is one of those photo tips that sounds fancy but is actually super easy to follow. The "rule of thirds" means dividing your image into a 3x3 grid and placing your main subject at one of the intersections.
But hey, don't stress about it. Sometimes, breaking the rules is where the magic happens! Play with different compositions. Try both horizontal and vertical photo orientations to see what works best for you.
8. Don’t Forget About the Details: Small Touches Matter
Whether it’s a product shot or a selfie, little details make a difference. Make sure the things in the frame look intentional, not random. Adjust your product so it’s positioned perfectly, fix your hair or outfit if needed, and pay attention to your surroundings.
9. Commit to a Schedule: Consistency Wins
It’s tempting to take a picture once in a blue moon and call it a day, but consistency is key! It’s not just about getting a great photo—it’s about creating a consistent visual presence.
Post regularly and try to stick to a schedule. Whether you’re posting once a day, a few times a week, or on a set theme, being consistent will help you build your brand identity and keep your followers engaged. Consistency is the key to your success.
10. Have Fun! And Don’t Stop Posting
Social media is supposed to be fun. Don’t stress about getting everything “just right” all the time. Embrace the awkwardness, get creative, and share the process behind your photos. The more fun you have, the more your audience will connect with you!
So, what are you waiting for? Start snapping! Whether you’re sharing your latest product, a selfie or the perfect cup of coffee, great photos will boost your social media game. And remember: keep posting! Keep practicing and you’ll get better every time.
There you have it! Use these tips to snap photos that look professional but still feel authentic. Your social media game is about to level up. Let me know which tip helped you the most—and feel free to share your photo wins with me!
I hope this checklist helps you get started. If you’ve got questions or need a hand, don’t hesitate to reach out! Let’s document your success… with photos!