How to get non-photographer friends to shoot your OOTDs
There is something about wanting to share the artistry behind your outfit picks to the world. It does not really matter whether you are travelling, attending a party, or just going to the mall. You tell a story with every outfit of the day (OOTD) photo you post.
Type in hashtag OOTD (#ootd) on social media and you would see a plethora of pictures showing the sartorial choices of fashion bloggers and ordinary social media users. It is one of the most popular hashtags in the fashion world.
Here lies the problem. Taking a selfie rarely gives justice to OOTD photos. Tripod and remote are very helpful but they are not always easy to carry around. Blessed are those who have friends and significant others who are pro in taking great photos.
Here are some tips from Shola Designs on how to get your non-photographer friends to shoot your OOTDs.
1) Prepare a shot list.
How many times have you experienced giving instructions on how to take your photos but only get disappointed because your friend or significant other did not get what you mean? Avoid this lost-in-translation blunder by preparing a shot list. Pinterest is a great place to start scouting for pegs. Put them on your phone for easy access.
2) Recreate the shot.
Eureka fashion moments do happen. And when they do, you feel like taking a photo (or photos!) to document them. These occasions call for recreating the shot. This method takes more time than preparing a shot list. You take a pic of your non-photographer friend first, lining up the shot exactly how you want it to look, then swap places.
3) Choose an interesting background.
A majestic scenery or famous landmark instantly adds oomph factor to your OOTD photos. You could also pick a spot with interesting elements such as graphic lines that complement your ensemble. Framed photos or works of art are good choices as well.
4) All walled up.
Wall as a background? Why not? Plain walls keep the focus on your outfit. Painted walls, meanwhile, make your photos pop with color. Keep your eyes peeled. Chances are there is one within walking distance from your house, school, or job.
5) Good lighting is key.
Lighting can make or break the shot no matter how well curated your shot lists are. Shooting in direct sunlight is a big no. The light is harsh, unflattering, and will make your clothes look terrible. Overcast skies are your best bet if you want to get outdoor photos with soft, beautiful light. Just make sure that the day is not too dark and cloudy.
Taking pictures indoors? Avoid getting grainy and ugly photos by opting to pose by the window where there is ample lighting. Window light makes a wonderful kind of light for portraits.
6) Do NOT zoom in unless you are using a professional camera.
Phone cameras utilize a digital zoom instead of an optical zoom. This means decreased image quality and shaky or blurred photos. Sure there are many filters to use later on but they are not always helpful. So no matter how tempting it could be, do not make use of the zoom in option. You get clearer and crisper shots if you ask your friend to move closer.
7) Go for a (F)Au(x) natural look.
Want to look candid in your OOTD photos? Move around slowly instead of just standing still. Tell your non-photographer friend to keep shooting and not laugh at your attempts to look natural.
8) Shoot from a different perspective
Experiment on your OOTD photo’s vantage point. Different angles create different moods and looks.
9) Capture details
Do not forget to take close up shots of your outfit’s details. Shoes, bags, jewelries, and other accessories matter; they give your outfit a cohesive look.
10) Have fun!
At the end of the day, it is about having fun. Oh, and do not forget your manners. Say thanks to your non-photographer friends after. They did you a favor after all.
