Rephotographing on iPhone

Before You Start

Old postcards were typically taken on large cameras using a “standard” lens — the equivalent of about 50mm on a modern camera. Your iPhone’s default camera is much wider, so the first step is to match that original perspective.

Step 1 — Set Your Focal Length

Open your iPhone Camera app and tap the 2x button. This gives you roughly 50mm equivalent, which closely matches how most pre-1950s postcard photographs were taken. Avoid using the default wide view or Portrait mode.

Step 2 — Find Your Position

With the ghost overlay visible, move physically forwards or backwards — don’t zoom — until the key elements in the scene begin to align. Look for strong reference points like rooflines, doorways, kerb edges, or the corners of buildings.

Step 3 — Fine Tune the Geometry

Check that vertical lines like walls and door frames are running parallel in both the old image and your live view. If horizontals like roads or building tops curve in your view but are straight in the postcard, try stepping back a little further.

Step 4 — Check Your Height

Old postcards were often taken from waist height on a tripod rather than eye level. If you’re struggling to match the angle, try lowering your phone by 30-40cm and see if the geometry improves.

Step 5 — Take Your Shot

Once the overlay lines up, take the photo. Small differences in season, weather, and time of day are part of the charm — you’re capturing change, not just copying an image.

---

Quick Reference

• Default iPhone camera — too wide, don’t use
• 2x button — ideal starting point for most postcards
• Zoom to match, then move to scale
• Lower than eye level if the angle feels off