How to Take Unusual (and Totally Creative) Selfies on Your iPhone
Let’s face it: the basic selfie is so last Tuesday. You tilt your head, find your angle, maybe throw up a peace sign (if you’re feeling spicy). But if your camera roll is starting to feel like a shrine to sameness, it’s time to shake things up. And guess what? Your iPhone is a goldmine for snapping selfies that make people stop scrolling and say, "Wait, what?"
Here’s how to unleash your inner selfie artist without needing a degree in photography—or a personality overhaul.
1. Say Goodbye to the Front Camera (for a Bit)
Using the front camera for selfies is like always eating plain toast: it works, but where’s the excitement? Flip to the rear camera and enter a world of higher resolution and creative possibilities. Sure, you’ll have to wing it without the luxury of seeing yourself, but that’s part of the fun. Set up your phone, use the timer, and see what surprises you capture. (Pro tip: embrace the unexpected double chin—it’s a vibe.)
Bonus Tip: Use your Apple Watch as a viewfinder if you’re fancy like that. Or just prop up your phone and hope for the best.
2. The Low-Angle Power Pose
Let me guess: you’ve been told to always shoot from above for that flattering look? Well, throw that rule out the window. Instead, place your phone on the ground and point it upward. This angle can make you look like a giant, a superhero, or an unsuspecting Bigfoot.
Want to crank it up a notch? Add a dramatic sky as your backdrop, and boom—you’re an influencer in the making.
3. Shadow Play
Ever noticed how cool shadows can be? Grab a lamp, some blinds, or even a houseplant, and start experimenting. The goal is to make shadows work for you—turn your face into a canvas. Who needs expensive filters when you’ve got sunlight and a little creativity?
Just remember: not all shadow selfies are glamorous. Some will look like abstract art gone wrong. It’s all part of the process.
4. Reflections Are Your BFF
Mirrors are the obvious choice, but don’t stop there. Think windows, puddles, shiny car doors, or even sunglasses. Anything reflective can become a selfie prop. Bonus points if the surface is weirdly warped, making your face look hilariously elongated or squished.
Pro move? Use a reflective spoon for that true "funhouse" effect. You might not look cute, but you’ll definitely look interesting.
5. Prop-tastic Fun
Props can turn an average selfie into an absolute masterpiece. Grab a random object from your house—a colander, a tennis racket, or even a roll of toilet paper (remember 2020?)—and get creative. Hold it, wear it, or use it as a filter.
Fun fact: A plastic bag can create a dreamy, diffused light effect if you stretch it over your phone’s camera. Who knew groceries had a glam side?
6. Action Shots, Baby!
Forget the standard “smile and stare” selfie. Try snapping yourself mid-action. Jumping in the air? Spinning in circles? Balancing on one foot? Use burst mode (just hold down the shutter button) and let your iPhone do the rest.
Sure, 99% of the shots might be a blurry mess, but that one perfect frame will make you feel like an athletic icon—even if you were just hopping over a crack in the sidewalk.
7. Portrait Mode… But Make It Weird
Portrait mode is everyone’s favorite for a reason—it makes your face pop while blurring the background. But why stop at the obvious? Try it on something unexpected, like your hand, your sock, or even your coffee cup. Then, casually caption it: "Selfie goals."
Trust me, people will either laugh or question your sanity. Either way, you win.
8. Channel Your Inner Hitchcock
For a spooky twist, try using low light and dramatic angles to create a moody, mysterious selfie. Use a flashlight under your chin for that classic horror vibe, or let a streetlight cast eerie shadows on your face.
Warning: You may scare yourself when scrolling through your photos later. Totally worth it.
9. Go Super Close-Up
Who needs full-face selfies when your nostril or eyeball can steal the show? Use your iPhone’s macro mode (available on newer models) to get up close and personal. Zoom in on your freckles, eyelashes, or even the texture of your skin. It’s weird, sure, but oddly captivating.
10. Get by with a Little Help from Your (Furry) Friends
Pets are the ultimate selfie enhancers. Whether they’re photobombing, licking your face, or just looking adorably confused, they add instant charm. Bonus: If the selfie flops, you can always blame the cat.
The Bottom Line
Selfies don’t have to be boring or predictable. With a little imagination (and a dash of courage), your iPhone can help you create photos that are funny, artsy, or downright bizarre. So, break the mold, experiment with angles, and embrace the weirdness.
And hey, if all else fails, slap a Snapchat filter on and call it a day.