It wasn’t so long ago that the vacation check list included film for our camera.   For many of us there is no need to even put a camera on the check list thanks to the iPhone in your pocket.  You might be surprised how many features are in your new iPhone camera.

Your iPhone is a networkable, digital, instant point and shoot camera that is compact and always on you. Here are a few tips to help you fine tune your vacation pictures.  The first thing to tackle is making your phone focus on a point in the frame you choose (taking the focus decision away from the phone).  To focus your iPhone do this: point the lens in the direction of your subject; put your finger on the person or item you want to be the focus (the sharpest) of the frame and hold it for about 1 second.  The camera makes this the focus.  Now take your picture.  When you view it later you will notice that items in the background are a little “fuzzy” making your subject stand out a little more.  Speaking of taking the picture, have you ever been frustrated at trying to push the button on the screen while holding the phone?  Skip it!  Use either one of the volume controls on the side of the phone as you shutter control!

To help you with the rule of thirds in your composition be sure to turn on the grid. This little trick will overlay a “checker board” in front of the image to help you put things in their rightful place.  Go to “settings” look for “photos and camera”, turn on the slider for “grid”.

Your phone can do more than snapshots. You can choose the function by looking at the bottom of the camera app. Look for the horizontal scroll for the functions of the camera (right above the shutter button).  Be sure you have the right app ready to go.  Swipe right to left to choose between time-lapse, slo-mo, video, photo, square, or pano.

Now go out and take great winter/spring/summer break vacation pictures!