Capture the Best of Your Business: Simple Photo & Video Framing Tips by Jessica Phillips
Are you stuck taking the same style of photos for your business? Do your images feel flat or not quite “social media worthy”? You’re not alone, and today, that changes. With a few simple framing techniques, you can elevate your photo and video content and better showcase what makes your business unique.
The good news? You don’t need an expensive digital camera to get started. Today’s smartphones offer impressive photo and video quality, making them a powerful (and budget-friendly) tool, especially for small or growing businesses. What matters most isn’t the equipment, but how you frame your shots.
Choose the Right Angle
A common question we hear is: What’s the best camera angle? The truth is, there isn’t just one. The right angle depends on your subject, your message, and the platform you’re posting on.
There are three common angles to know:
- High angle: Shot from above, looking down. This angle works well for landscapes, cityscapes, flat lays, or showcasing multiple elements at once. It helps show scale and relationships, like a product placed within a larger setting.
- Horizontal (eye-level): Taken parallel to the ground, this angle feels natural and familiar. It’s ideal for storefronts, people, and everyday business moments.
Low angle: Shot from below, looking upward. This perspective emphasizes strength, height, and importance, making it perfect for buildings, people, or even products you want to appear bold and powerful.
Understanding Shot Types
Beyond angles, shot size plays a big role in visual storytelling.
- Establishing shots set the scene. They show viewers where the action is happening: your storefront, restaurant interior, or workspace.
- Wide (or long) shots capture the full subject along with its environment, providing context.
- Full shots show the subject from head to toe and work well for people-centered content.
- Medium shots frame from the waist up, balancing expression with surroundings—great for interviews, service demos, or behind-the-scenes moments.
Close-ups focus on details or faces. Since viewers naturally look at the eyes first, make sure your focus is sharp and intentional.
Framing Tips That Make a Big Difference
Always start by leveling your shot. A slightly crooked photo can feel unprofessional unless the tilt is intentional. Clean, straight lines instantly make your content look more polished.
Next, remember the rule of thirds. By dividing your frame into nine equal sections and placing your subject along those lines or intersections, you create balance and visual interest. Not everything needs to be centered; off-center framing can add depth and movement.
Finally, check your background. Distracting elements like trash cans, clutter, reflections, or boxes can take away from an otherwise great shot. A quick background scan can instantly elevate your content.
When You’re Ready to Hand It Off
If photo and video framing still feels overwhelming, or you realize you don’t have the time to consistently create quality content, we’re here to help.
At Get Fish Slapped, we’re dedicated to capturing the best of your business and helping you thrive in the market. Through genuine relationships, integrity, and transparent strategy, we take the stress out of content creation so you can focus on growing your business.
Reach out today, and let’s frame your success together.