Step up your photo game, whether you choose a phone or a camera. Here are 4 basic tips to bump up your skills.
Lighting
Avoid harsh lighting. This does pertain to direct sunlight. It causes you to squint as well as casts shadows under your eyes. Instead, try looking for a shady space. Overcast weather is wonderful for lighting because the clouds act as a soft filter for the sunlight.
Rule of Thirds
Most phones and cameras have the option to add the 3x3 grid on your screen. This is a great tool to help you understand where the subject would look best in your image. The rule of thirds is the practice of putting your subject in one section of that grid. Putting your subject in 1/3 of the image is more appealing to the eye.
Find a New Angle
Moving around with your camera can unlock a world of new images. For children, get down to their level to take images of them. For portraits, stay slightly above eye level to keep the images flattering. If you are taking a photo of The Lincoln Memorial, find an angle nobody else around is thinking to try.
Framing
Create a natural frame around the subject using the background or the environment around you. Trees, buildings, leaves, and other methods are great for natural frames.