Raya Photo Tips: Creating Artistic Images That Get Accepted

The Raya Aesthetic: Artistic Over Perfect

Raya photos should feel like they belong in an art magazine, not a dating app. The committee looks for genuine artistic sensibility in your photo selection.

Key Aesthetic Principles:

• Film photography feel (grain, muted tones)
• Natural over studio lighting
• Candid over posed
• Interesting over merely attractive
• Story-driven composition

Lighting for Artistic Photography

Golden Hour Magic:

• Shoot during sunrise or sunset
• Soft, warm, flattering natural light
• Creates depth and dimension
• Film-like quality automatically

Window Light Portraits:

• Indirect natural light
• Soft shadows create depth
• Professional studio feel at home
• Emphasizes natural features

Composition Techniques

• Rule of thirds (subject off-center)
• Leading lines draw eye to subject
• Negative space creates intrigue
• Environmental context tells story
• Depth of field (blurred background)

Color Grading Strategy

• Muted, desaturated tones
• Film-inspired color palettes
• Consistent aesthetic across all photos
• Avoid Instagram over-processing

Authenticity Signals

• Genuine expressions over forced smiles
• Caught in moment, not posing
• Professional quality but natural feel
• Shows personality, not just appearance

Using AI for Artistic Enhancement

AURA creates Raya-appropriate photos with film aesthetic, artistic composition, and natural authenticity that appeals to the creative community.