Let’s face it, cell phones are more capable than ever and will continue to improve. I have a love/hate relationship with mine. On one hand I need it to stay in touch with my business and stay current with social media like Instagram (if you want to follow my travels, Instagram is where you will find me). On the other hand I find my phone very distracting when I am in the field or on a shoot; I like to stay focused on my creativity and technique. But your cell phone is a valuable tool to help with your creativity, just use some of these apps to help you create better images.
1. Wunderground. There are a ton of weather apps out there, but time after time Weather Underground gets it right and with more detail than most other apps. I love the forecast graph that shows you hourly rain and sun forecasts down to the hour. This app lets you store favorite locations, and gives quick access to sunrise/sunset times.
2. The Photographer’s Ephemeris. If you are wondering where and when the sun will rise from your location, this is the app for you. Very handy to show you where the sun will peak out behind Half Dome no matter the time of year. Also shows moonrise/set information and times. Every photographer will appreciate this app.
3. Night Sky. If you like to photograph star trails, then this app will help you find the north star and other constellations. Handy to set up that one hour star trail shot.
4. Easy Release. For the portrait shooters out there, this app lets you have models sign a release on your phone or tablet. You can take their picture, tag it to the release, and send it home via email. When you return, your releases are waiting for you. Comes in many different languages.
5. Hi-Def Radar. Another weather app, this one shows you where those nasty thunderstorms are and what direction they are moving. So you can set up in their path with your lightning trigger attached and wait for the show…just remember to run for cover! I’m addicted to this app; it is very valuable to know what weather is going to hit you when you are in the middle of a shoot.