Easy Photography Tips for Designing Custom Skin Wraps

   From smartphones to gaming, a variety of devices can benefit from custom skin wraps. These accessories add instant style, not to mention protection from scratches. They can easily be personalized to reflect your interests and personality — but care must be taken to ensure that any preferred photos are high enough quality to create a pristine look.

Not sure how to take a photo worthy of a removable wrap? It's not as challenging as you might think. You don't need a high-end camera or years of experience — just a little guidance so you know how to make the most of what you do have. To help, we've provided easy-to-follow photography tips:

Camera Options

If you have access to a DSLR camera or other photography equipment, feel free to make the most of it when taking snapshots for your skin or wrap. As long as you're able to produce a digital image to upload, your camera should serve you well.

Don't worry if you lack an expensive Nikon; many smartphones have excellent cameras that can capture awe-inspiring photos. The iPhone is always a top option, but many Android phones should also deliver the high-quality images you desire.

No matter which device you use, you'll want to verify that the camera settings are adjusted according to your intentions. Beware if your phone remains on the factory settings, as these tend to have a lower resolution. Instead, maximize the resolution and image quality. If you're concerned about storage, use a microSD card.

Optimal Lighting

 Lighting can instantly turn a so-so photo into a masterpiece — or vice versa. For outdoor photos, this means taking advantage of what experts refer to as the "golden hour," typically occurring an hour or two prior to sunset.

Inside, the lens angle and light source will make all the difference. In general, backlit photos are best avoided, as are any other sources of light within the frame. This tends to cause lens flare. Try using tin foil or white paper to bounce light off the subject and create a more flattering glow.

Ideal Resolution

The graphics submitted to MightySkins are printed in high resolution on premium vinyl. You can do your part by uploading photos that also feature the highest resolution possible. As mentioned previously, this may mean adjusting your phone to achieve, at minimum, full resolution. For example, 12 MP can produce a great image.

Printing on Vinyl

MightySkins wraps are printed on automotive-grade vinyl. A patented air-release approach is used to produce the best visual results and our durable MightyShield matte laminate prevents scratching. For eye-catching vinyl stickers, use a high-resolution image when you submit your order for a custom wrap.

Keep in mind that, once printed, the final product may not be a 100 percent match to the digital representation, particularly once applied to a large three-dimensional object. Small wraps for flat objects (such as smartphones) are more likely to look exactly as you expect.

Wrap Design Camera Shots

You've determined when and where you'll take photos for your customized skin or wrap — and you know which camera or smartphone is up to the task. Next, it's time to experiment with various camera shots.

No one approach is perfect; a lot depends on the photo subject and the size of the item that will be protected by the wrap. If you want to make an impression, however, these shots should do the trick:

Eye-Level Portraits for Intimate Perspectives

An eye-level portrait will provide the most impactful perspective for decals featuring a loved one's face. To prevent distortion, place the camera directly at eye level or slightly below.

Close-Ups for Intimate Portraits

Go even more intimate by taking a close-up photo of your subject. Expressive eyes can be especially compelling. You don't necessarily need a macro lens, but you may need to play with depth of field. This is a great option for heartwarming newborn baby photography.

Low Angle Shots to Make Subjects Appear Big

Size up your photo's subject with a snapshot taken at a low angle. Place your camera or phone near the ground, facing upward to make the subject seem extra bold or powerful.

Dutch Angles for Edgier Photos

Deliver a unique perspective with help from the beloved Dutch angle, which instantly disorients the viewer. This can be achieved with a simple tilt of the camera on its X-axis. This is a great option for making scenery appear more interesting or even foreboding.

Extreme Close-Ups to Capture Details

If you opt for a photo of natural elements (such as plant life), an extreme close-up can up the ante. Focus is key; determine which part of the final image you'll want emphasized so that the background drops out of focus. Experiment with moving closer to or further away from the subject so you can get the sharpest image possible.

Extreme Long Shots to Create Scale

Extreme long shots are most noteworthy when they draw on the concept known as the vanishing point: the location at which parallel lines seem to disappear after receding. If used properly, the vanishing point can make a long shot appear to stretch even further. Scope out locations in advance and complete several test shots, playing with different lighting levels.

Wide Angle Shots for Artsy Distortions

Distortion isn't always worth avoiding. If used strategically, it can add visual interest to your photographs. Wide-angle shots are among the most effective for achieving a delightfully distorted appearance, particularly when you want photos with artistic vibes.

Experiment to determine how you can best stretch or elongate subjects or scenery with a wide angle. When possible, incorporate an element that provides a sense of scale, as this will ground the photo and make it even more impactful.

Apps & Tools

Perhaps you like the idea of customizing your wraps or decals — but you aren't particularly interested in taking your own photos. Not a problem. The right apps can make world of difference:

Instagram

Social media can be a helpful resource for applying filters or even finding images from other people. That being said, you'll need to take great care, or you risk copyright infringement. If you're not sure whether you can use a photo, ask permission.

MightySkins Create Your Own

This customizable tool allows you to select from a variety of existing designs to create a skin or wrap you adore. You're also welcome to upload your own photos. Either way, this operates on a "what you see is what you get" basis, so take extra care while creating your design. We strive for accuracy but will be unable to make changes after the order has been submitted.

Create Custom Wraps With MightySkins

Ready to take the next step and use a photo you adore for your personalized skin or wrap? At MightySkins, we're determined to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible.