Currently in the suburbs of LA, and been actually able to make interesting and fun photos here!

I shot these photos all on a Samsung Galaxy S7, with HDR mode on, at sunset. Afterwards I used VSCO #A6 preset, and adjusted the exposure and contrast a little after.

I’m really happy with the colors and the look! Some basic tips I’d have for you:

1. Keep it simple

Small details like shadows. Keep it simple and abstract. This is a shopping cart shadow I shot during sunset on the way (before) I entered the gym. I just took out my phone and snapped 10 photos. This is my favorite.

2. Shoot people in parking lots

Also try to shoot head-on. Shooting with a phone will make you more “stealth”.

3. Have fun!

Don’t try to take “serious” photos. Just enjoy yourself and shoot whatever puts a smile on your face!

4. Put your selfie in the photo

Put a shadow selfie in your photos, and tilt your camera to make more dynamic compositions!

5. Shoot from inside your car

Get a friend or someone else to drive. Shoot out of the passenger window as you’re going around town! You can make interesting compositions this way.

6. Cultural critique

I have a love and hate relationship to the suburbs. I love the convenience, low cost of living, and the food. I hate the consumerist and flabby culture.

So when you’re in the suburbs, photograph details you desire to critique!

7. Geometry, shapes, and forms

Flex your visual muscles by just shooting simple shapes and forms, to practice your composition!

Conclusion

You can live a happy life in the suburbs, both as a photographer and human being.

Use any opportunity you have to make photos which put a smile on your face!

JUST SHOOT IT.
ERIC

Some other phone pictures with VSCO:

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset

Processed with VSCO with a6 preset