10 Photography Apps You Need to Download

Photography is one of those passions that keeps me sane during the school week. For me, all stages of photography are extremely relaxing. The picture planning, picture taking, picture editing, and picture sharing. It used to be that camera phones could not take decent photos, my how things have changed since the first iPhones! An iPhone now, is access to the widely creative world around us. Apps allow for young aspirers, such as myself, to explore and publish their works. I usually get asked what my favorite editing apps are... and it's been a long time since I wrote on photography. I've definitely found more apps since last Spring, so here's an updated list on the apps that you need on your phone ASAP. 

one // Foodie - This is a new discovery I have made as far as apps go. This is a camera app, meaning that you have to take pictures straight on the app instead of uploading them and editing them as is the case in apps like VSCO. It includes filters customized for foodies across the world that can't let a beautiful meal pass them by without snapping a photo. My favorite part is how simple it is! I was able to pick it up pretty quickly. 

two // Over - If you enjoy adding text to photos, this app is definitely one of my favorite free options. I've had this app on my phone for as long as I can remember, but it's still one of my favorites. Back when I was first starting my blog, I used Over to create my blog images... I haven't since, but it's still fun to play around with. 

three // Afterlight - This used to be my favorite editing app before I completely understood VSCO. It has presets similar to VSCO, but they are not as vibrant and clean. There are also some light leaks and frames that are not on other apps. Afterlight is $ 0.99, and I've certainly gotten some good use out of it! 

four // A Color Story - DEFINITELY my second favorite editing app. So many fun and bright but still professional and clean editing filter options. You're also able to adjust the color levels in the photo which is extremely helpful as well. This app was a little difficult to use in the Winter time, but now that Spring is here and Summer is only around the corner, I know I'll be using this app more and more! 

five // VSCO - My go to, always and forever. The presets are inexpensive and professional. It is simple, easy to use, and above all professional. The layout is easy on the eyes and the app not only contains filters, but also includes tools to edit and adjust the way your photo looks before publishing it. VSCO also provides a new platform to publish and discover other photos and photographers on. Whenever I'm bored or lacking inspiration, VSCO always seems to do the trick. 

six // Google Drive - I couldn't turn photos in for my photography assignments, transfer photos from my camera to my phone, and distribute event photographs to individuals without Google Drive. It is such a handy tool! I definitely recommend this over Dropbox and other options similar to Google Drive. 

seven // Instagram - duh duh duh! But for aspiring photographers, gaining an audience and fan base is absolutely crucial. Gaining your following might be a slow process, but hey! Just remember this is what you're truly passionate about and that this is your chance to be creative and inspire others. Instagram is also my go to for little editing adjustments such as highlights and shadow lightening as well as adding a slight color tint. 

eight // Lens Distortions - This app is WAY too fun to play with! You can add fog and add the sun into your photos. This would be so much fun in the Summertime with certain angles at the beach or lake. I don't really think it's necessary to have it, but it's still fun to experiment with!

nine // 1967 - This app doesn't exactly cooperate with me, but it is still (so I've heard) good for adding a vintage touch on your photographs. Like I said, I haven't quite figured it out yet, but I'm still going to continue experimenting with it's features and filters. Honestly, I think it's the layout that confuses me, but definitely give it a try! From what I've heard from other photographers , it's a good app to have. 

ten // Flic - So the majority of the apps I've listed are to help you with various editing processes and cool filters and such. This app however is still extremely useful if you're anything like me. If you have a bajillion photos saved on your phone, download this app. Sometimes we truly don't realize all the crap we have saved in our camera rolls until it's actually laid out in front of us. This app shows you everything in your camera roll, Tinder style. Swipe left to trash or right to keep! This has definitely saved so much of my memory... I definitely recommend you download this now and give it a try!

Honorable Mentions // These are some apps that I've heard are good, but I haven't tried myself!

• Touch Retouch - this app is good for removing unwanted details from photos and making it as though they were never there! I could definitely see this coming in handy...
• Mextures - Add some snazzy textures in those photos of yours! This app offers a variety of lightleaks as well as textures. 
• Snapseed
• Darkroom
• Face Tune
• Slow Shutter Cam
• ProCamera
• Enlight
• Faded

If you don't already, follow me on Instagram, to see some of these fun editing apps in action! Let me know if you have any other favorite apps that I haven't listed above... I'd love to check them out for myself. Most of these apps are free only because I hate investing in apps before I know for sure how they work... That being said, please tell me your favorite paid photography apps in a comment!