selfies Archives - Sleeklens - Tools and Training for Photographers

Sometime in the previous century, I was finishing up a 270-mile backpacking trip along a section of the Pacific Crest Trail in California. I was dirty, a little skinny and definitely ready for my close-up. Just as I was traversing along a mountain slope with the morning light in the perfect position to highlight what a greasy mess 15 days on the trail will do to one, I met some day hikers. I asked them to take a picture of me and though they seemed to not understand why I would want such a thing, they obliged.

Given this was the semi-crude days of film, I didn’t see the portrait in grime until the roll had been processed. The person who took the photo had placed my head dead center in the shot. There was nothing but sky behind me instead of the mountain scene. My grungy jeans were cropped off as was the trail itself. A potentially wonderful, story-telling moment—at least to me—was lost.

From then on, I decided I would be responsible for my own self-portraits as they were known back then. Or, so as not to take myself too seriously, I now call them selfies like everyone else.

I clamped a Canon 5DMII with a flash and warming filter to the front of my kayak and then went paddling off around sunset. I purposely used a slower shutter speed to get a little blur in the paddles. — I clamped a Canon 5DMII with a flash and warming filter to the front of my kayak and then went paddling on the Green River in Colorado at sunset. I purposely used a slower shutter speed to get a little blur in the paddles.

However, my idea of a selfie isn’t mugging the camera with a maniacal grin. We can do better than that.

For me, a selfie is a sometimes artful record of somewhere I’ve been or something I’ve done. It includes some context or maybe even shows a little action. I might be alone in the shot or with someone, often my wife. My kind of selfie has a candid quality to it that doesn’t even look in most cases like I took it myself. Very often, it only takes a few minutes to do.

Solo Selfies

Yosemite National Park. This hiking shot took a little time. I first crossed the creek without my pack and set up the camera. Then I went back, put on my backpack and crossed. I set the wireless remote to take 10 pictures, one second apart so I would have enough different variations to choose from.

So let’s start with a common situation for me. I’m hiking alone in the mountains and come across a beautiful view from atop a ridge. This shot has potential, but it’s missing something, a storytelling element. It needs a model and I happen to have one: me! So I shrug off my pack and pull out a tripod. A small one, mind you. Just hefty enough to hold my camera.

I know, I know. A lot of people hate tripods, especially if they have to carry them any distance. But having those legs are absolutely necessary to precisely compose the shot. After all, have you ever tried to balance a camera on, say, a rock or fence? Too often, you’re composing based on the shape of whatever you’re using for support instead of getting the picture you really want.

This was more about adding a human element to the scene (Mt. Whitney trail) than showing my face.

So after I whine to myself about having to take the time to extend the tripod legs and attach the camera—true confession: I hate carrying tripods, too—I connect to the camera the second most important selfie tool, a wireless remote. True, just about all cameras include a self-timer but I really detest having to set it and then rush to get into position before the time is up. So I use the Vello ShutterBoss II. It has a claimed range of 250’—I’ve gone as far as about a 100 feet and it worked like a champ—and allows me to take multiple pictures at whatever interval suits me.

It comes in two pieces. There’s the receiver that attaches to the camera’s hotshoe with a cord for my Canon three-pin connection (it’s also compatible with several other brands). The other half is a transmitter I take with me to activate the camera. (Some cameras allow you to remotely take pictures with an app and smart camera, so check your options.)

In this particular scenario, I compose the picture to highlight the story I want to tell. I try to keep it simple. In this case, I just want to be hiking through the foreground with the wilderness scene behind me. Other times, my role as the model might be more static where I just supply a human element for the scene. However, I find just standing there often makes for a boring shot so I prefer to be doing something.

My wife, Gloria, and I hiking the Hoh River rain forest trail in Olympic National Park. This shot served the usual selfie purpose of simply showing us on our backpacking trip, but it also lent a human element to the scene.

There are many issues to consider as I go about this. Here they are:

Where do you want to be in the frame? I usually fall back on the law of thirds to keep it easy and put myself in a lower corner with the scene behind me. If I’m walking, I want to be entering the scene. If I’m standing still, I want to be facing the main part of the scene from the side of the frame.
What’s in the background? You don’t want to block an important element. Also, look for such pitfalls as trees or poles that potentially could spring out of the top of your head.
What’s the direction of the light? Generally speaking, you want the light source on your face. Make sure you’re not standing in a shadow when the rest of the scene is brightly lit.
What are you going to do in the shot? Moving? Standing still? Fiddling with something? Or just smiling at the camera? Plan ahead so you don’t come away with an indecisive look on your face. Know the story you want to tell, no matter how simple it might be.
Know where you want to be in the actual scene. That sounds obvious, right? But everything looks a little different from where the camera is opposed to when you place yourself in the scene. Look for some object in the viewfinder that’s close to the position you want to be in. Maybe it’s a distinctive rock, lamppost or crack on the pavement.

This is really the simplest of all super selfies, but it does tell a brief story about my solo trip on the Pacific Crest Trail through the High Sierras.

Take a moment to visualize yourself in the picture and how your presence contributes to the overall composition. Be prepared to reshoot if your imagination isn’t accurate.
I like to set the remote so it shoots after a three or four-second delay. That gives me time to stash away the transmitter in a pocket so I’m not pointing it at the camera when it starts taking pictures. This also adds to the impression of the shot being totally candid or unposed.
How many shots do you want to take? Sounds odd, but say you’re walking through the scene. Set the remote to pop off 10 frames at one-second interval. You’ll have a lot more variations to choose from. Even if it’s a more static shot, take several pictures at a time, varying your pose slightly for each frame.
Pre-focus and then set the lens to manual focus. This prevents the camera from re-focusing on the wrong thing when you hit the remote. Choose something as near as possible to where you’ll be standing and focus on that. If you’re a little unsure, set a smaller aperture for greater depth of field so you’re more likely to be in focus.
Manually set the exposure. Again, this prevents the camera from making decisions you might not agree with once you’ve walked away from it. For added insurance, take a shot while you’re still at the camera and examine the LCD version for proper exposure and focus.

As my friend and I were cross-country hiking to Thunderbolt Pass in the Sierra Mountains, I started to feel like I was carrying a pack for 10 people. So I set up the wireless remote to pop off 10 pictures and then I combined them in Photoshop using layers and masks. — As my friend and I were cross-country hiking to Thunderbolt Pass in the Sierra Mountains, the high altitude, and rugged terrain made feel like I was carrying a pack for a whole group. So I set up the wireless remote to pop off 10 pictures and then I combined the seven best ones in Photoshop using layers and masks.

Consider your shutter speed. If it’s too slow, you might be blurred. Of course, you might want that to suggest movement, but if you’re just standing there you’ll usually want to be sharp. Increase the ISO for a faster shutter setting if necessary. For walking shots, aim for at least 1/250, for more static poses, at least 1/30.
Be careful where you place the tripod. It should be on solid ground. Trust me, you don’t want to helplessly watch your camera topple over when it’s 20 feet away. If it’s windy, hang a weighted bag from the tripod hook on the center post, or lower the legs so the entire assembly is a bit more stable. Also, when you walk away from the camera on your way to pose, be careful not to knock into it. (I’ve done that, too.)
If you’re doing this where there are people passing by, be sure no one can trip over the tripod.
Always check the pictures you’ve taken to make sure they are what you intended. Reshoot if necessary. If you have time, try different compositions.

Canoodling at the Roman Coliseum. We got lucky because it was a rainy night which shined up the road. And then the headlights from a bus down the street illuminated out faces. — Canoodling at the Roman Coliseum. We got lucky because it was a rainy night which shined up the road. And then the headlights from a bus down the street illuminated our faces.

Canoodling Selfies

More often than not, I’m traveling with my wife and we like to do what we call canoodling pictures. We’re not mugging the camera. We’re interacting with each other one way or another, seemingly oblivious to the fact we’re being photographed. For my money, they make for far better travel pictures because, again, they tell a story about our trip. Also, instead of only getting a limited shot of the surrounding scene, dependent on how long my arm is for holding the camera, I can compose so there’s greater context. That shot of us in front of the Eiffel Tower actually has the entire icon in the picture.

And, oh, one more thing: our faces aren’t distorted like you see in a typical selfie. If the composition requires it, I can use a long lens with us off in the distance.

Half Dome, Yosemite National Park. Shot with the camera's built-in self-timer — Half Dome, Yosemite National Park. Shot with the camera’s built-in self-timer

Here are a few things to think about when doing a self-portrait with one or more others:

Pose the other person first. Set the focus on them.
Imagine yourself in the shot and determine if you’ll be in the same plane of focus as they are. If necessary, stop down the aperture for greater depth of field so you’ll both be in focus.
Beg, if necessary, for your selfie partner to ignore the camera and “act naturally.” Find something for them to do or have them interact with you. The nice thing about a wireless remote is you can always pop off pictures without getting up to reset the camera, which is distracting to the other person.
Make sure neither of you will be casting a shadow on the other’s face.
Always check the picture after it’s taken to be sure it worked as you envisioned it. My attitude is, we’ve traveled all this way, we might as well get great shots of ourselves, so take the extra time to do it right.

I was about to descend into LeConte Canyon on the Pacific Crest Trail when I realized I needed a really wide shot to get it all in. So I shot the several segments of this pano, going left to right. Shot several in a row of me hiking through the shot, and then one last picture for the end. — I was about to descend into LeConte Canyon on the Pacific Crest Trail when I realized I needed a really wide shot to get it all in. So I shot the first several segments of this pano, going left to right. I then shot several in a row of me hiking through the shot, and then one last picture for the end. The picture was stitched using Photoshop.

Pano Selfies

One variation of all of the above is do the selfie as a panoramic. This involves setting the camera in a vertical orientation on the tripod and taking all the pictures as you would normally do for a pano, overlapping each one by about a third, using manual exposure, focus and color temperature settings. Leave the last frame for you to be in the scene. Later, stitch the shots together with whatever software you prefer, choosing the best of the frames with you in it.

I have to admit that doing “super selfies” is a bit more challenging than simply extending a smartphone camera at arm’s length and firing away, but I’m convinced my selfies do more to record a special moment or scene.

Hope you guys liked this tutorial and before you ask, the header image happens to be a quick set up “super selfie” of my wife and me in a doorway on Avenue Junot in Paris during an early morning walk. I used a mechanical timer attached to a Bronica SQ-A medium format camera. See you next time!

A fad that came to stay: the selfies. And what is so special in these pictures that, until a few years ago was nothing more than the simple habit of some travellers to auto – portray themselves if they were alone? Maybe you can say it is something related to newer generations and the heavy exposure of Social Media networks; others may say it’s due to the changing trends of famous people…

Regardless of its origins, selfies are fun, easy to take and the best of all: you don’t need to be an expert or have a high-end camera to take one – just grab your smartphone and enjoy a nice photo session! Nevertheless, taking a selfie at a cool place can sum up the whole selfie experience, mostly if your aim is to rank up higher in Social Media or if you die for the thrill of adventure. Let’s go through some of the best locations for taking a selfie in 2021!

Recommended Accessories

One point that can make the difference in the overall quality of your selfies is the usage of certain gear and post-production tools to enhance the quality of your images. You don’t need to make hefty investments as many of these tools are quite cheap, so let’s get on with the list:

Smartphone Gimbal: There are plenty of options to explore, though DJI leads the market with their Osmo Mobile line, the latest release of the DJI OM4. A gimbal works by stabilizing your image with a three-axis system, which not only avoids blurry shots but also protects your phone in case of risky shots. A word of advice: be mindful about the total weight of your phone – as not all gimbals can support the same weight (they usually drop the phone rather abruptly when that happens), and on this same page of security tips keep in mind battery life, and be sure to test your gimbal with a cushioned surface first (like above your bed) – just to avoid costly accidents in case of faulty gear.
Smartphone apps: If there’s something greater than the variety of smartphones we see these days is the variety of apps meant to enhance photos. You can check a tailored list of the ones we consider useful for photographers – as some apps simply apply filters instead of letting you control the scene.
Lenses for Smartphones: Finally, accessory lenses give free rein to our imagination as they push us closer to the DSLR experience. For the best price/quality relationship we recommend you to check either the OlloClip Multi-Device Clip Lenses or the mindblowing, professional Moment Lenses – one of the finest products for smartphones available in the market.

1. Burj Khalifa, UAE

The preferred place for welcoming a new year in the world by many tourists, is there a better place to take a selfie than on top of the world? You will find this fine piece of architecture as taken out from your wildest fantasies. 828 metres tall and with two sky observation decks – floors 124th and 148th floors respectively – you can take staggering shots at some meters above 555m from the highest sky deck. There’s a tiny possibility to access the highest spots of this building, although that’s not something we recommend, nor we encourage.

In case you’re wondering what to do if you suffer from fear of heights – well, let me tell you that this writer here endures the same issue so no sky-high pictures for me. A floor-level selfie from the very entrance of the Burj Khalifa or its nearby entourage is more than enough.

2. The Maldives

Picture this: crystal clear water, kilometres of beach shore, lovely villas, island climate plus some exotic cocktails while enjoying a sunset lying on a chaise – sounds like paradise right? An archipelago of 1,192 coral islands grouped into 26 coral atolls in the Indian Ocean, it’s widely known as one of the best places in the world to indulge yourself with guilt-free leisure time. And, if you happen to be adventure-driven, be sure to pack an underwater camera as The Maldives is the ideal place for an underwater selfie, with its many variations of sea life: corals and over 2000 species of fish.

3. Cinque Terre, Italy

One of the most beautiful sights in Italy is the northeastern coast seaside town known as Cinque Terre. It’s often mistaken for the Amalfi Coast – which is located in the southern region of Italy – so for giving you some references: Cinque Terre is a 3-hour drive from Milano, whereas the Amalfi Coast is easily accessible if travelling from Rome or Naples (1-hour drive). They also variate on climate, as Cinque Terre is significantly colder given its proximity to the Alps; the Amalfi Coast is considered – alongside with Malta – one of the most beautiful places in the Mediterranean landscape to visit and vacation.

So why should you visit Cinque Terre instead? For starters, it’s a place meant for hiking, so you can spot variated sights while discovering the local culture. Its less posh atmosphere, in contrast with the Amalfi Coast that’s filled with 5-stars resorts, will also boost your creativity by letting you fully relax. Pack your camera, keep your smartphone in hand, and enjoy one of the most breathtaking views Italy has to offer to the world.

4. Tower Bridge, London

The most popular bridge in the world for taking selfies, thousands of tourists choose this particular place filled with historical anecdotes for a selfie on-the-go. This suspension bridge that crosses the River Thames, and close to the Tower of London has become an iconic symbol of the city. Whenever there is a special event in London, like the 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games, this Victorian-styled bridge will take an active part in publicity campaigns as the most vivid demonstration of Londoner pride.

5. Corcovado – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

A tourist city par excellence, in Rio de Janeiro you can find a vast sum of landscapes worthy of being photographed – but it says nothing more “Rio de Janeiro” than a selfie at Corcovado mountain. The place of classic postcards of the city, enjoy a selfie next to the monument of Christ the Redeemer, one of the 7 World Wonders.

6. Empire State Building – New York, USA

The 102-story Art Deco skyscraper located in Midtown Manhattan features two observation decks: the well known 86th floor observation deck, with one of the most beautiful, breathtaking sights of New York City or, for those who don’t experience vertigo, the 102th floor one, where you can sightsee the entire city, although at a completely indoor place – you can even travel back in time by getting there in an old-fashioned manual Otis elevator.

7. Eiffel Tower – Paris, France

A classic for couples and those romantic without remedy, the Eiffel Tower in Paris is one of those places in the world that do not require a prior introduction. Leave the Parisian charm to inspire you to get a selfie of quality – and as everyone has already said, only in Paris can you enjoy “la vie en rose”.

8. Santorini, Grece

Envisioning a paradise in the Aegean Sea? There is no better definition for Santorini. This Greek island will make you feel that even sky sports another tonality with just exploring its charming alleys, while you enjoy the aroma of the local cuisine. A selfie in Santorini, with an attractive sunset in the background, and you’ll have the perfect picture!

9. Marina Bay, Singapore

One of the most amazing places in the world is located in the heart of Asia. Marina Bay, tourist city par excellence of Singapore, not only hosts events from the level of a Formula 1 GP, but also a vast amount of scenarios with contemporary architecture for every taste and style. If you are planning to go to Singapore, don’t forget your selfie stick.

10. Kathmandu, Nepal

If you are looking for a place filled with spirituality, Kathmandu is should be your destination!. Landscapes worth to be framed, stories of ancient times and an endless number of Buddhist symbolism within our reach. On your next exotic trip to Asia do not miss the chance of a Nepal tour, with a spiritual-inspired selfie experience.

11. Bosphorus Bridge – Istambul, Turkey

Where Europe and Asia meet… This particular bridge in Turkey is known as the Bosphorus Bridge, which crosses the Bosphorus strait, links more than two continents; two completely different cultures. A unique place in the world, worthy to be remembered forever with a maritime selfie.

12. Kruger National Park – South Africa

If you are one of those people who enjoy the great plains and exotic destinations, you should not miss the chance to get an interesting selfie in this reserve of natural wildlife located in South Africa. With guided tours and the opportunity to see magnificent specimens in their natural habitat, which would undoubtedly be an unforgettable destination; and who knows, you may be lucky enough to get a selfie with a cute Meerkat.

Do you have any other places in mind you want to share with us? The most important thing you have to remember is that a selfie is all about being yourself – be careless and enjoy life through your camera!

Tag: selfies

Superselfie: Taking Better Self-Portraits