📸 Holiday Phone Photos: How to Take Better Pictures with Your Smartphone (with Don Feria)

This week on Your Tech Makeover, professional photographer and Stanford University instructor Don Feria joins Frank Bravo to share real-world tips for taking better photos with the camera you already own, your phone.

Just in time for the holidays, Don and Frank break down what separates a good phone photo from a great one. From lighting and composition to phone-specific settings, you’ll learn how to capture the moments that matter most, whether that’s a Thanksgiving feast, a Christmas tree glow, or kids and pets who refuse to stay still.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode

• 📱 Why mobile photography has changed the way we capture memories — and how to use that “studio in your pocket.”

• ⚙️ The real difference between High Efficiency and Most Compatible camera settings on iPhones.

• 🖼️ Simple composition tricks to make your photos instantly better (and what to watch for in the background).

• 💡 Lighting made easy — how to find soft, flattering light indoors and outdoors.

• 🍗 Holiday photo tips for food, family group shots, and fast-moving kids and pets.

• ✨ Editing basics that make photos pop without overdoing it.

• 🗂️ Quick ideas for keeping your photo library organized (and backed up safely).

🧠 Key Takeaways

• Even small changes — like moving a few feet for better light — make a big difference.

• You don’t need fancy gear; understanding your phone’s features goes further.

• Practice before the big day: try shooting scenes with both shadow and light so you’ll know how your camera reacts.
  

💬 Mentioned in This Episode

• Don Feria – donferia.com | Instagram @donferia

• Stanford University Continuing Studies

• Frank Bravo – YourTechMakeover.com

☕ Support the Show

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👉 Visit YourTechMakeover.com for details.

So, what’s one photo tip you plan to try this holiday season? Let me know what you think — and, as always, if you have ideas for topics you’d like me to cover, reach out at [e-mail].

Thanks for listening to Your Tech Makeover. Don’t forget to subscribe on your favorite podcast platform, and visit YourTechMakeover.com for more episodes, transcripts, and show notes.