Camera apps often have a toggle switch for grid lines, including the built-in camera app.
In theCameramenu in your iPhone prefs, you’re free to find thegridtoggle.
This will overlay a rule-of-thirds grid on your screen when you use the camera.
Lifewire / Paul Marsh
It’s included in the editing functions of the built-in iOS Photos app.
To use the straighten feature, tapEditwhile viewing the photo in the camera roll and then select thecroptool.
It also keeps your image well-balanced and more pleasing to the eye.
Lifewire / Paul Marsh
When we shoot photos, we have to make choices.
Even back in the film days, the darkroom was all about editing.
Ansel Adams used to say that the negative is the score, and the print is the performance.
d3sign / Getty Images
While sunsets rarely need editing, planning on some editing is wise, even before shooting the photo.
Even the basic camera app allows you to tap the part of the image you want to expose.
If you pick a dark part of the image, the sunset sky will wash out.
Lifewire / Paul Marsh
Black-and-white sunsets can be very compelling.
A monochrome sky can be as dramatic as one in color.
Try Some Editing Apps
Nowadays, manyfree editing apps for iPhone and Androidare at your disposal.
Lifewire / Paul Marsh
Powerful photo-editing tools such asSnapseedandFilterstorm.
There’s also an iPhone version of Photoshop.
These give you capabilities you could only dream about a few years ago.
Snapseed works particularly well for sunset photos; the drama filter enhances the contrast and textures in the light.
d3sign / Getty Images
Explore apps likeSlowShutterCam, too.
The softening effect can yield beautiful results at sunset and can give your image a painterly feel.
Sometimes, the results are unnatural-looking and unsettling.
Still, when done properly, sometimes you might’t tell that the HDR process was used.
While sunset silhouettes can be pleasing, sometimes the details in the dark areas can provide context.
Explore the Light
Be patient.
The best light and color often arrive after the sun disappears behind the horizon.
Watch for the best color several minutes after sunset.
Also, explore the way the low angle of the setting sun lights up the world around you.
The rim light and backlight effects can lead to some powerful images.
Sunsets aren’t always about the sun and clouds.
