That Instagram feed with perfectly timed running photos? Well, they’re not all perfectly timed and I’ve got the outtakes to prove it. Setting up the perfect “runfie” (running selfie) is a little bit about timing and setting, and a whole lot about repetition. The more you “runfie” the more you develop an eye for a good shot and perfect your timing.
Not every run has perfect timing…sometimes the cars get in the way. And you just pretend you’re stretching.
Here are a few tips for snagging a great shot on your next run:
Background
Pick a background that is pleasing to they eye. This may sound like common sense, but mailboxes, power lines, houses and the like can look like clutter in a picture. Simple backdrops are more striking that busy ones.
Sometimes your timing is perfect…on the first try.
Position
Finding a good place to prop your phone is always a challenge, but you learn to get creative: two large rocks, a branch that’s angled just-so, a mailbox or fence post. I’ve put my phone on just about any surface you can imagine while out for a run and the more you are looking for them the more of those “perfect prop spots” appear!
Timing
I’ve always used my iPhone on a timer and the best way to get the shot is to use the 10 second timer and stand so that you can see the timing flashes. With three seconds remaining the timer starts to flash rapidly and that’s when I start running past the phone. It’s best to set you phone at an angle or run on an angle so that you’ll have ten photos to choose from, instead of only a few. If you run perpendicular to the camera lens, you’re less likely of capturing a useable photo.
Don’t Give a Sh*t
You have to stop caring what passersby will think of you and just go for it. I’ve taken some shots where there’s been lots of other people around. Whatever, they think I’m nuts. It’s cool, because I am a little nuts…I mean, we’re runner’s aren’t we all a little nuts?
There were probably 20 other people on the mountain when I took this picture. Everyone having their sunrise moment. I propped up my phone. Ran to the further outcropping and waited 10 seconds….and voila!
Check out what these other bloggers have to say about running and selfies:
Do you take selfies on the run?
-Sarah
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Corrie Enyart says
OH my goodness! I love this post! I am so uncomfortable posting myself in pics. And all my friends keep telling me I need to get over being shy. This post is inspirational and educational, lol!
I have to get your mindset when it comes to not caring about other people when you’re trying to take that perfect Insta shot!! I feel like such a tool when I’m taking “runfies” or propping my phone to get shots at the gym. I totally have to get over it!! Thanks Sarah! And that Mt. Washington pic? WORTH IT!
Great tips! I need to pay more attention to the background on my photos. It really does make a difference and some of my best photos have great backgrounds, but other times I just prop my phone up on what’s convenient and shoot!
Elsa Xhafer says
This is so funny and informational! I never take runfies in fear that I will look silly! People have been even asked whether I am runner since I don’t post much from my runs. ( will throw in a pic of two of the nature and shoes …but that gets too old too son! I really enjoyed these tips.