How to Take a Great Photo

A former communication major with a photography specialization, Julia D’Agostino Pierce, ’17, photographs everything from curated spaces to everyday moments. Her interior and lifestyle photography has appeared in publications such as New England Home, Woman’s Day, and HGTV Magazine. She credits fine arts professors Jon Malis, MFA, and Dan Schlapbach, MFA, along with her senior exhibition at the Julio Fine Arts Gallery, for shaping her creative approach.

Here are D’Agostino Pierce’s tips for taking memorable photos.

Capture What Matters

Always take the photo when it has the power to transport you back to a memory. D’Agostino Pierce’s favorite photo is one she took while she was pregnant, showing a cherry blossom tree in her parents’ yard. The image reminds her of childhood and now hangs in her daughter’s bedroom.

Add Visual Interest

Add a foreground element or change your perspective. Shoot from above, below, or through your surroundings; take an extra moment to find the viewpoint that adds depth and creates a compelling image. There is no wrong angle—only the one you like the most.

Keep It Natural

Like a nurse distracting a child before a shot, keep photography sessions conversational. Naturally guide your subject without over-directing. The more relaxed the environment, the more they’ll realize being photographed isn’t so bad!

Play With the Settings

Experiment with your phone’s different focal lengths instead of defaulting to Portrait mode. Try other settings too, like adjusting exposure or using Live Photo.

Trust Your Vision

Photographer Joel Meyerowitz shares, “Once you have a camera in your hand, you have a license to see.” The camera you use does not matter. Your photos will be shaped by your creativity and perspective.

A Student’s Journey to New Zealand

Read about D’Agostino Pierce studying
abroad in New Zealand during her junior year at Loyola.