Windows

New Ideas

Capturing images of windows or through windows (especially windows with distorted glass) or using reflections in windows can create stunning, unique photos with your smartphone. Windows offer a natural frame for your subject, and the reflective surfaces can add depth and intrigue to your shots.

Whether you're capturing a cityscape, a portrait, or an artistic reflection, shooting through glass can offer new perspectives and interesting layers. However, there are a few techniques to keep in mind, such as controlling glare, minimizing reflections of your phone, and adjusting the focus to ensure your subject is sharp.

Before & After

Passau, Germany: Two distinct approaches to photographing windows are shown here—one from a traditional perspective that captures the whole scene, and another using Macro or Food Mode to zoom in on the intricate ironwork for a more artistic, detail-focused view.

Photographing windows offers a unique opportunity to play with layers and depth. Reflections on the glass can create intriguing double images, blending the outside world with what’s inside. By experimenting with angles and focus, you can highlight these reflections or choose to emphasize the scene beyond the window. The interplay of light and shadow on the glass often adds a dreamy, atmospheric quality to your photos, making windows a fascinating subject for creative photography.

Montreal, Quebec: Notice the way sunlight create a natural focal point and the way the window colors dance along the walkway.

With a little practice, window shots can elevate your photography and add an extra dimension to your images in addition to creating works of art that are completely unpredictable.

Window Architecture

As someone who’s obsessed with architecture, I’m always amazed at how often people skip over the window and focus only on the view. But here’s the thing—the window is part of the story! Including its shape, frame, or reflections can make the whole scene way more interesting. Sometimes, the window itself is the real work of art—and the view just plays backup.

Venice, Italy: Check out the windows in the Doge’s Palace above—each photo uses a totally different technique! From vertical panoramas to silhouettes, abstract angles, and creative edits, every shot tells a unique story.

Now look at the photo below—it shows the view just as you’d see it with your own eyes. Most tourists that day focused only on the scenery outside, completely skipping the window as a framing tool. But using the window as part of the photo can turn an ordinary view into something artistic, dramatic, or unexpected!

Tips for Capturing Stunning Photos of Windows or Through Windows

🪟 Use the Window as a Frame – Position your subject within the edges of the window to naturally frame the shot and draw attention to your focal point.

🌫️ Focus on Reflections or Transparency – Capture what’s reflected outside or what’s happening inside. Both angles can add depth and interest to your photo.

🔆 Adjust Exposure for Contrast – Windows often have tricky lighting. Tap on the brightest or darkest part of the screen to balance the exposure manually.

🌅 Capture the Mood with Lighting – Use soft morning or evening light for a warm glow, or embrace harsh midday light for bold contrast and drama.

💧 Emphasize Texture and Details – Look for raindrops, frost, or smudges on the glass. These small elements can add mood and storytelling power.

🎯 Experiment with Focus – Try focusing on the subject inside, the scene outside, or even the glass itself for creative and unexpected results.

👤 Silhouettes Work Well – A person backlit by the window becomes a powerful silhouette—simple, emotional, and dramatic.

🪞 Reduce Glare and Reflections – Hold your phone right up to the glass or use your hand to block stray light and reduce glare.

🌄 Play with Panoramic Mode – If the view is wide or scenic, switch to panorama to capture the entire scene through the window.

🎨 Edit for Atmosphere – Slightly boost contrast or brightness to shape the mood. Try black and white edits for a timeless, artistic finish.

Windows offer a unique blend of perspective, light, and storytelling—whether you're capturing a world outside, a cozy moment inside, or reflections in between!

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