July Theme Assignment

July Assignment: Capture the Color, Grit, and Storytelling of Graffiti—Using Only Your Mobile Phone.

1. Shoot Straight On for Impact

Graffiti often has strong lines and symmetrical compositions. Stand directly in front of the wall and hold your phone level to avoid distortion. This gives the viewer a clean, graphic view of the artwork and respects the artist’s original perspective.

2. Frame with Environment

Include elements of the surrounding area—cracked sidewalks, chain-link fences, overgrown plants, urban textures—to provide context and tell a deeper story. This can add mood and ground the graffiti in a real-world setting.

3. Use Leading Lines and Angles

Graffiti in alleys or underpasses often works well with diagonal shots or angles that draw the eye into the image. Look for lines from roads, curbs, pipes, or architecture to lead the viewer’s gaze to the graffiti.

4. Focus on Details & Texture

Zoom in or get close (without distorting) to highlight interesting textures—like peeling paint, dripping spray, or layered tags. Use portrait mode or tap-to-focus to make certain elements pop.

5. Play with Light & Shadows

The time of day can dramatically change your shot. Golden hour can warm up colors, while shadows in harsh midday sun can add drama or texture. If you're shooting at night, try using surrounding street lights or neon to cast moody, colorful glows.

6. Use People for Scale or Interaction

Including a person—especially walking by or pausing in front of the graffiti—can provide a sense of scale and movement. Be sure to ask for permission if it’s not a candid or public scene.

7. Edit Thoughtfully

Use mobile editing apps like Snapseed or Lightroom Mobile to enhance saturation, structure, and sharpness. But don’t overdo it—let the graffiti's original color and texture shine. Cropping can also help isolate the most compelling parts.

Bonus Idea: Reflection Shots

Look for puddles, mirrors, or glass surfaces to create cool reflected images of graffiti. This adds an extra dimension and can turn an ordinary piece into a striking photo.