Digital Photography Tips for Beginners: November 2013

Learning a Different Kind of Visual Art

Aside from paintings, photographs have been considered as one of the most interesting visual means of communication there is.

As times pass by, those who were not endowed with the natural knack for drawing or painting were able to shift their “eye for the beautiful” using not brushes and paints but a camera—an apparatus that records images on photographic negatives called “film”.

PHOTOGRAPHY CLASS BASICS

After discovering the beauty of photography, more and more people became interested in the craft, devoted their time in discovering and rediscovering its major components, and became self-taught photographers.

Since not everyone does not have enough time and will to learn everything on their own, they often resort to attending photography classes to gain or improve their knowledge in the craft.

But before enrolling into any photography class, you must decide first what kind of photography you would want to explore and things you can expect from that class.

These are the usual things you can learn in a photography class:

• The Camera. Essentially, a camera is a light-tight box containing a piece of light-sensitive material—either film or digital sensor—inside it. The “box” has a hole (lens) to allow light to enter, a viewfinder and a shutter.

Usually, two types of cameras are being introduced to the students during a photography class: the SLR (Single-Lens Reflex) or manual and the Digital Camera. While SLR cameras require the use of rolls of film, manual loading and rewinding, and manual photo processing, digital cameras use a digital memory car, which allows larger image storing and can be processed/ manipulated through the use of computer.

• Photography terms and other equipment basics such as shutter speeds that define the length of time the film is exposed to light, aperture which refers to the opening of the lens, kinds of films and film speeds rated by ISO numbers, batteries either alkaline or lithium, tripod or monopods used for camera support, F-stops or depth of field which refers to the distance between the nearest and farthest points that appear in sharp focus, the significance of camera meters, and lenses which are used to gather and focus light rays to form an image and its various kinds with basic explanation and application of focal lengths, tele-extenders, filters, flash and etc.

• Photography theories and application.

• Outdoor and indoor activities are also expected.

• Styles and tips in shooting different photographs like framing and composing the subject, and what to photograph are taught.

• Camera health, protection, and caring tips.

• You can also learn how to publish your photos as well as your money and photo rights.

If you’re planning to enroll in a photography class, make sure that you peruse the syllabus or course outline so you can come up with a list of expectations. You may also ask people who have enrolled in photography classes before and ask about their experience so you’ll have an idea what goes on.

Online photography classes are available in the Internet if you opt not to attend a regular photography class.

Into the World of Style and Photography

Fashion photography is ALWAYS in fashion. Although it is mainly dependent on commerce, fashion photography is now considered as an art. Unlike before where fashion photographers see the craft as a source of income, modern fashion photographers see themselves as artists who can invent and reinvent different photo shoot techniques and style.

BECOMING A FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER

If you are a budding photographer and has always been fascinated with fashion and photography, you may want to make fashion photography as an option.

Imagine yourself traveling the world and setting foot on exotic islands and historical sites, working and hanging out with famous, most creative, and talented people in the fashion industry, taking the photos of international super models to have them published in various fashion magazines, having your named renowned internationally, and to top it all, you are paid a huge sum of amount while enjoying these perks.

Today, where almost everybody can become a fashion photographer through the use of reliable digital cameras, soft wares, and other photo editing gadgets, more and more people photo and fashion enthusiasts are into the lucrative business of fashion photography.

But, how do you break in? Here are some of the things you may want to consider:

- Make up your mind and decide if you really want to be in the business.

- Don’t hesitate about potential clients and income because fashion photographers are always in demand.

- Choose where would you want to land on the business—either freelance, ones without an agent; freelance with an agent, employed by a retailer, employed by a publication either a magazine, a book publisher, a newspaper, and the like; employed by an established fashion house, employed by an advertising company, employed by a fashion or clothes manufacturer, employed by a direct-mail company or you would want to open up your own studio and get clients on your own.

FASHION PHOTOGRAPHY CHECKLIST

So, you really want to become a fashion designer? After deciding what you really want to do and where would you want to land in the gigantic world of fashion industry, you should make a short reassessment of your skills, you work ethics and etiquette to become successful in the path you have chosen to take.

There is more to fashion, photography, and fashion photography than meets the eye. Bear in mind that the craft and the business are beyond the realms of taking good photos, models, clothes, and products. Also remember that being a fashion photographer is more than an average person who takes good pictures. Technical and artistic skills in photography are required. Additional skills in styling, natural knack for clothes, great artistic inclination in modeling and composition, and entrepreneurship spirit are also a must.

If you didn’t make it in the fashion photography scene yet, consider some options and career paths like working periodicals, ad agencies, department stores, fashion houses, modeling agencies, retailers, catalogues, galleries and in stock photography agencies while waiting for that big break. Experiences in these fields can hone your innate skills and may open up doors to greater opportunities.

More tips in becoming a fashion photographer, breaking into and succeeding as fashion photographer, starting a fashion photography business, starting a fashion photo studio, starting a glamour photo studio and even getting paid to take beautiful fashion pictures and travel the world in the internet. These sites also provide information, and pieces of advice and tips for those who are interested in entering the industry as well as for those who would want to enhance their knowledge in the craft.

Great Tips in Photographing People

Unlike taking photos of inanimate objects, photographing people can be more difficult as they are dynamic. They move. They can think for themselves. This is the reason why it is much harder for one to anticipate their moves and their expression. One needs to be always in his toes when capturing people. A great deal of experience is needed to be able to produce a great picture.

Know your equipment

This is one tip that you should not take for granted when photographing people. Remember that with people, you have to know every trick of the trade and every part of your equipment to keep up with their spontaneity.
There is no time to look for clasps and buttons when dealing with people. Everything must be instinctual and bullet-fast. In fact, one famous photographer even advised amateurs to know their equipment so well that they will be able to find the parts even with their eyes closed.
This can be achieved by constant practice. Start with people in your family. Another great training is taking photographs of people in events where everything is spontaneous. Try to capture their various expressions and their actions.

Focal lengths

In terms of the focal lengths that you will be using, it is best to use lengths from 28-105 mm., depending on the subject of the picture. Taking close-up photos are better with pictures that deal with people because this way you will be able to show through your photograph the expressions on their faces or the look in their eyes.

Capturing movement

One of the most fascinating subjects in photography is the human body in motion. With a good eye and instinct for taking photos, you will be able to capture a moment that will otherwise be lost in time. One problem with taking pictures of movements is the fact that there are cameras that are not able to capture them.
Too much movement will only result in blurred photos. It is best to either use a tripod to minimize the shakiness or use a camera where you can manually adjust the shutter speed.

Focusing

In focusing, it is best to aim for the eyes of people. This will add a glint of light in their eyes as well as ensure that the expression in the eyes is captured clearly. This is one of the most important part of photographing people as expressions convey a story in itself.

Following the History of Photography

No one knows when exactly the first camera-type device was made. In fact, no one even knows what device came first in the market. The earliest recorded camera-device was the obscura, which became really popular during the Renaissance age when the artists in that era used it to trace the image that it projects from the tiny hole.

Daguerre’s positive process

Photography, as a word, was used during the 1800s. In fact, it was in the year 1839 that the first photographic process was made public. After which, a number of light-sensitive materials were created and tested to capture the same image as that of the obscura. Eventually, the first successful photograph done was made by Louis Daguerre.

The picture that Daguerre made was captured in a silver-coated sheet of copper that used positive image. The photograph, which was entitled “The Artist’s Studio, was really fragile and difficult to reproduce.

Talbot’s negative process

In 1839, other artists and scientists had discovered other photographic imaging techniques that they used in their profession. William Henry Fox Talbot, for instance, created the Calotype process, which used light-sensitive paper and produced instead a negative image in contrast to Daguerre’s. Talbot’s method, however, required long exposure time and will only work with inanimate objects. A person cannot hold still long enough for the photo to be taken. This is why the first recorded photographs taken using Talbot’s process were all architectural and landscape.

By the year 1840, man began to discover more sophisticated techniques. The procedure improved and the exposure time began to shorten. This is the time when portrait became the rage especially among the rich class who can afford the procedure.

Discoveries that changed the face of photography

Photography became a separate and thriving field in the arts. Starting from black and white cameras to Polaroid cameras that can produce the picture in an instant, the field had one important discovery after another. This helped the field flourish from being used in portraits, photographs have now become important tools in media.

Digital photograohy

Then, digital photography came into the scene and made the process of photography even easier than before. With the digital process, there is no need to buy films and develop pictures in the dark room. One can store the images in the computer and print them the same way one would print any file in the computer.

Discovering the Beauty of Landscape Photography

Symmetry, repetition, contrast, asymmetry, coherence, symbolism, and a dash of irony—these are the major components that construct a beautiful photograph taken by exceptional photographer. These are also the very same components that one needs balance when taking one of the easiest yet most difficult subjects to photograph— landscapes.

LOOKING BACK

Since they are permanent, familiar, accessible, and part of nature, landscapes have been one of the most favorite subjects by most photographers. Landscape photography can be traced as early as 1849 when the book “Egypte, Nubie, Palestine et Syrie” containing prints of paper negatives was published. In the 19th century, many eminent landscape photographers emerged which dominate large photography collections in museums and galleries worldwide. Today, many budding photographers continue to fall in love with nature. And as they pursue the road to landscape photography, more and more works and techniques continue to emerge.

FALLING IN LOVE WITH LANDSCAPES

Unlike other kinds and styles of photography, most people would say that it is easy to take landscape photographs because you don’t need to instruct you subject and you can choose whatever angle you want. On the contrary, most photographers believe that landscape photography is one of the most difficult because you will need an intense set of equipment and a very keen eye to make an “ordinary” scene quite extraordinary.

Imagine capturing the natural beauty of a majestic landscape with your camera and in your own preference. Here are some of the elements you need to pay attention to before you delve into the realms of landscape photography:

1. Camera, lens, and lens shade are great deals. Although you can use any camera, most photographers would recommend SLR or digital SLR because these give wider selection of lenses and ensure superior results. Wide-angle lenses are also advised because it gives a great view into any picture. In order to protect your lens, look for a good lens hood or shade.

2. Tripod is a must. This is a very invaluable and important asset for landscape photographers to avoid the blurred outcomes and to ensure the maximum depth of field.

3. Invest on film and filters. Any film today can be used because it can record nature’s color vividly. You just have to be wise in using the right ISO film to avoid grains in your photo prints.

4. Consider camera position. This greatly affects the overall quality of your photo because it requires your creative decision. (TIP: If there is a horizon line in your composition, keep it leveled so there is a room for greater possibilities.)

5. Set the direction and the type of light to be used. Proper direction accompanied with balanced lighting will make or unmake your landscape piece so make sure that you visit the location and predict the weather before your shoot.

6. Be hands-on in post exposure manipulation. To get the job done, try to learn mastering the do’s and don’ts in the darkroom so you’ll get the result you desire.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Digital Photography

1. Lesser cost

One of the advantages that digital cameras provide is the fact that it is largely practical and convenient. There is lesser cost in the long run as one need not buy films anymore and will need not develop the pictures the old fashion way. They would only need to charge the batteries, get a reasonably large memory stick and they are good to go.

2. Better storage

Photographers can now store the pictures that they have taken in their computers and in their cds, allowing them to use the memory stick over and over again. There is no more need to store rolls of film and worry that they might disintegrate.

3. Printing convenience

Another convenience that digital cameras provide is the fact that it can be printed at home the same way one would print any kind of file.

4. Trial and Error

Another convenience that digital cameras provide is the fact that one can actually view the photos right after taking it and have the option of erasing it when it is not good. This, according to experts, spoils photographers. Because they can do a take over and over again, they don’t learn the discipline of planning for their shot before actually pressing the button.
Still, for the amateur photographer, this is like manna in heaven as this enables them to easily take good photographs and see their mistakes.

Disadvantages

1. Need for Computer literacy

Similar to film photography where you need to be also familiar with working in the dark room, one needs to have a modicum of computer skills. Not only will you be storing your photographs in the computer, operating the camera is like operating a small computer. You really have to be computer literate in order to maximize the functions of your camera.

2. Artistry is lost

There are some that argue that artistry and spontaneity is lost when using a digital camera because photographers do not shoot using various effects. For instance, some would not bother to blur the background anymore because they can fix the photo in Photoshop and other graphic programs. One can do a number of things with the computer, erase flaws, fix red eyes and sharpen some features.

Action Photography

Of all the kinds and styles of photography being practiced today, sports photography is probably the most exciting—not to mention the most difficult—of all. Since this kind of photography involves so much speed and action, photographing the subjects or players would require more than the usual knack for good angles but also the strength to endure physical limitations during the shoot.

Sports photography usually include shots that are taken during the game or while the subjects are in their respective field. Aiming to “freeze” moments during the actual event, sports photographers should be equipped with the right photography equipment, trained with enduring tenacity, and fueled with an overwhelming desire to capture each moment and emotion at their best.

PHOTOGRAPHING DIFFERENT KINDS OF SPORTS

The best thing about sports photography is that the photographer can freeze a single moment that contains pure and raw emotion and share it with the public in print. If you’re into photography and quite interested in taking adrenaline-pumping shots, you should familiarize yourself with different kinds of sports first. Since each sport varies, the styles and techniques used in capturing and freezing each moment also vary.

If you are already in the field taking photos, it is a must that you have a brief background about the sport you are covering. Knowledge in the fundamentals of coaching style, sport rules, and players will help you identify their most interesting angles. It is also a must to identify your “safety” (a shot that is easy to shoot and can be published if you don’t get good photos all throughout).

Here are some basic sports photography guidelines fit for common sports:

1. Baseball. Most seasoned sports photographers would agree that baseball is one sport that is hardest to shoot because of its unpredictability. Make sure that you get your safety first before getting experimental shots.

2. Basketball. Unlike baseball, this is the easiest sport to shoot because you only have to focus on two subjects: the player who handles the ball and the net. But its simplicity limits you to different angles, so make sure you get plenty of shots to choose from.

3. Football. This is another easy sport to shoot but it is considered as the most equipment intense sports because it would require waiting for the perfect shot. Although it’s easy to get safeties, it’s still up to you to produce action shots that would be a stand up.

4. Soccer and Hockey. Because of the speed and sudden movements involved in these sports, auto focus cameras are recommended.

5. Volleyball. Although it is one of the rarely covered sports events, volleyball is also one of favorites because dramatic shots can be derived all throughout. Since moves in the sports are quite tricky, make sure that you turn your camera’s auto focus on.

6. Golf. It’s hard to shoot photos during the game due to the nature of the game itself. What you can do is to camp at one location and take shots as players pass by or use a cart to follow the individual players.

7. Track and Field. Though access can be limited, this is one sport that is fun to shoot because movements are predictable and easy to shoot. All you need is good timing.

8. Gymnastics and Figure Skating. One basic rule in these sports: NO FLASH. Since they involve individuals performing, the use of flash is restricted because it distracts the players. The major problem you’ll encounter is lighting but this can be solved once the venue is lit up.

9. Motorsports and Racing Events. These are fairly easy to photograph because you can get away with slower lenses. But since you’re far from the track, you need longer lenses for the shoot.

A Picture Perfect Wedding

Weddings are definitely one of the happiest moments in a person’s life. But, this momentous occasion does not always come as blissful as the event itself. Days and even months before the big day, couples usually cram up with the littlest details.

The process of listing down and cutting down everything into specific details—the wedding date, the venue, the reception, the caterer, the designer of the gown and suit, all the way down to the wedding coverage—are the areas where stress usually ushers in.

Due to hectic schedules, most couples usually do not pay much attention to one of the crucial things in any wedding—the wedding coverage. Despite the overwhelming tension and excitement, couples do not have to be nonchalant when choosing their wedding photographers if they want their fun times and precious memories recorded very well.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PREFERENCES

To avoid making this slight neglect that usually leads disastrous results, couples have to decide first what kind of wedding photography they would want to have.

Most wedding photographers today categorize the types of wedding photography into two: the traditional or classic style and the wedding photojournalistic style.

The most common style used by wedding photographers today, the traditional or classic wedding photography is considered as a “timeless” and the “safest” style because you normally see in countless wedding albums. Characterized by classic poses of subjects aware of the camera, this style involves so much control from the photographer because he is in-charge in arranging individual and group shots before, during, and even after the wedding.

Having excellent portraiture skills, expect the photographer to focus more on the quality of the photograph by making the subject look great from the littlest details. Expect typical wedding photos like pre-ceremony pictures, formal shots of the bride and groom posing with brides maids and ushers, cake cutting, garter and bouquet toss, and the like when you choose a classic wedding photography. This style is ideal if the couple would want to keep portraits of family members for their wedding album.

If the couple is adventurous and unconventional, then you might want to consider the wedding photojournalistic style of photography on your big day. An increasingly popular style today, wedding photojournalism offers fresh and new style of taking photos in the occasion. Characterized by candid shots of the subjects unaware of the moving camera, the photojournalism style lets the attendees act freely to capture their pure and true emotion.

Sourcing style from his experience in journalism, the “photojournalist” pays more attention to minute details and candid shots rather than arranged ones. He’s more into eyeing interesting moments and capturing those in his lens to produce a narrative collection of images that tell a story.

Although some traditional poses will be present, expect photos that show actual emotions of the bride and groom and of other participants throughout the duration of the wedding when you choose the photojournalism style.

In order to avoid ruining the documentation of your wedding, here are some tips in making your wedding a picture perfect one:

1. Weddings are one of the most exciting chapters of one’s life. Make sure that you choose a wedding photographer that can meet all your standards. Meet with the photographer before hand the so you could discuss the details you want.

2. Inform the important participants about the schedule of photo sessions and make sure everyone attends the rehearsal to cut down the stress.

3. Have a reception area so guests can be informed about the itinerary. This will set the occasion in order.

Techniques in Photography

Like all fields, photography, professional photography at that, is not as easy as one may think. In fact, it is actually quite hard to produce photographs that will grab one’s attention in an instant. Here are some tips that can get you started.

Simplicity

In composing photos, one must remember that the fewer objects there are, the better. Simplicity is good in photographs as there should be few distractions from the main subject. Cluttering the photo with so many elements will only For instance, it is not good to take photos of a crowd without a main focal point for instance a building, a colorful object or an image that you can focus your into.

It is necessary to find a point of interest and then do your best to highlight it or emphasize it by using the other techniques that will be mentioned later in the article.

To practice on your composition, you should study advertising photos in newspapers. You should also scan magazines for photos or visit photo exhibits.

Contrast

Another technique that one must learn is contrast, as this makes for a great and interesting photo. For instance, a colorful subject will shine more when placed in a dark background. The same goes with for instance an African American with dark skin set against a backdrop of colorful textiles. Another example is pairing up a small and a large object. By using contrast, you are not only highlighting one but two focal points, which will draw the eye into the photo.

Balance

Generally, imbalance or any asymmetric element in the photo will be able to make the articles more interesting. This means that placing the subject off center is vastly more preferable than putting it on the center. This is actually contrary to what most people think that subjects should be in dead center.

Framing

Another technique in photography is the framing. This is when you use an element in your composition to stand as a frame for the main subject. For instance, a branch of a tree serving as a frame to a couple of lovers sitting underneath it is better than just a shot of tree with the lovers under it. This will emphasize the subject better. One thing that photographers must remember though with framing is that the subject must be the sharper element. Focusing on the frame rather than the subject will only distract the eye from your focal point.

What Digital SLR Photography is all About

The cameras of the past did not have that much clarity or depth. Even with the development of the lens which allows the user to focus in on images, this did not yet make photographers completely satisfied after a take.

Fortunately, the digital age has brought about the creation of the SLR camera. This single reflex unit allows the user to produce quality images from pressing the button till it comes out when it has been developed.

The SLR is quite expensive. One unit costs about $5,000 and upgrading the lens to reach farther will be another expense. This is probably why many advise to have this insured in case this gets lost or damaged.

Here are some of the known brands of SLR camera’s worth checking out in the market.

1. The first is the Nikon D2x digicam. Though its features are almost the same like others in the market, it comes with a GPS recorder so that the person can remember when and where it was taken so this can be done again.

The pictures can be downloaded to a laptop so the pictures can be printed or developed in the store.

2. Another great SLR camera is the Canon EOS-1DS Mark 2 Digicam. This model enables the person to shoot in any environment. This has better shots per second than the first one mentioned which is great for shooting moving objects.

3. The Kodak DCS Pro is another camera worth checking out. This lightweight model can use Nikon accessories and lenses to be able to get those shots that other units cant.

These units are just one of many that are available in the market. The price of each are not that far apart so it will really depend on how comfortable the user is. Some hobbyists have used one brand for a number of years and decided to stick to it.

In order to keep these in good condition, the owner must also know how to properly store or clean these items. The cover must always be placed on the lens when not in use and should be wiped after each use.

Some people who are not happy with the cover can use a filter which is better protection from dirt, fingerprints or crashes.

A lot of stores usually sell the SLR camera with a bag but others usually buy a bigger one to hold other equipment and accessories.

The digital SLR camera is one innovation that is here to say. Though it may hurt the pocket in getting one, the shots taken will be rewarding.

What to Look for in a Photography School

Unlike some school programs that are offered in all state universities and colleges, photography, as a full-pledged course, is not as common. In fact, only a handful of art schools have such a comprehensive program.

This can be both an advantage and a disadvantage for students who are interested in taking up photography as a course and not just as an elective in college. Finding the right school can be crucial and with only a few to choose from, it will either be easy or hard depending on your priorities and resources.

Location
Having so few photography schools can be a disadvantage, as most will probably be offered in New York or in other key cities in the country. Finding a good photography school will then create a problem with students who live far away from major cities.

Expenses

Spendings during school year should also be looked into as students will probably have to reside in dormitories. Also, one must remember that photography requires a lot of additional expenses for materials and projects. Students may need to buy their own camera and spend a fortune in films and developing. Look into the curriculum and if possible ask if equipment and other materials are already provided or included in the tuition fee.

Specialty

Before you submit your requirements and enroll, make sure that you have thoroughly research the program in photography that the school offers. Remember that there are schools that specialize in photography as a course. Look for that school and try your best to get in. The reputation that the school has will eventually serve you in good stead when you apply for a job.

Professors

College is not just the time to develop your skill but also to establish connections in the profession and perhaps, if one is lucky to also find a mentor. Research on the professors that would be teaching the course. It would be good if they are giants in the field and even better if they are people whose work you really admire.

Curriculum

Photography has different subfields. If you have already identified the sub-field that you want to concentrate in, you should look into the curriculum and make sure that it is included. If not, try to look into other photography schools, that do offer the subject. This way, you will be able to learn more about it and eventually concentrate on it. Still, it is also important to look into the overall curriculum and see what other areas of photography will be taught.

When Pictures Paint a Thousand Words

Portrait photography is probably the best kind of photography that defines human interest. Although it is considered as the easiest area of photography compared to others, portrait photography appeals to many people and photographers alike because it is quite interesting and challenging.

Since it’s all about taking people’s photos, a portrait photographer should possess a genuine interest in people that would eventually become their subjects. They should care about people and are natural conversationalists to break the ice.

Above all else, portrait photographers should also possess the skill to observe their subjects’ characteristic gestures and expressions and can easily identify a person’s best side and angle.

GETTING STARTED

If you think you have what it takes to be a portrait photographer, then you should familiarize yourself with the different areas of portraiture. Basically, there are different types of portrait depending on the usage or purpose.

Some of the common categories in which portrait photography falls into include amateur portraits of friends and family, photos of people in a social gathering, editorial portraiture where pictures are taken by photographers for newspapers, magazines and other publications’ use, fine art portraiture where photos are taken specifically for display in museums and galleries, formal portraits where subjects pose for the purpose of a photograph and informal portraits or ‘action shots’ where the subjects do not intentionally pose for the camera.

THINGS TO CONSIDER AND RECONSIDER

Many photographers would agree that the intention of the photographer is what sets a photograph apart from a portrait. If you would want to try portrait photography, here are some of the things you might want to consider:

1. Camera. In portraiture, any 35mm SLR (single-lens-reflex) are fine. If you can afford a Digital SLR, it’s better because you can save on film and processing. Never opt for a zoom point and shoot because it can’t provide sharp outline and accurate results.

2. Lenses. There will be times that you need to emphasize or de-emphasize a specific feature of your subject at a certain distance. These are what the different kinds of lenses are for—to highlight or conceal any good or bad feature of the subject.

Many professional photographers suggest 300mm or 600mm lenses but for starters, typical portrait lenses that are between 90 and 135 millimeters long for 35mm cameras are okay. Nikon 105/1.8 (MF only), Canon 100/2 USM, and Canon 135/2 USM are some of the recommended portrait lenses available in the market.

3. Film. Since digital cameras no longer require the use of rolls of film, this should not be a big trouble for you. All you need is to look for a good compact flash that has high memory to produce high-resolution photos. But if you have a manual or SLR camera, purchase black and white and color films to provide choices to your clients.

4. Location. An ideal location for any portrait photography shoot is a studio. Aside from providing enough working space to work at, having a photo studio also ensures the safety of your equipment. But if you can’t set up a studio yet, it is advisable to find a space that can provide you a working area.

In setting up a studio, consider the rental cost, size, accessibility to target market and the facilities offered. If you take environmental portraits, you wouldn’t need a studio that much because your shoots will depend on the surroundings that create great impacts on your subject.

5. Lighting. If you have a portrait studio, consider the sources of light that would flatter your subjects. If your shoot is outdoors, it is advisable to choose an overcast day to avoid shadows in your photos.

Photography Equipment

Photography is one of the most expensive hobbies that a person can get into. In addition to the camera, one will also have to buy films and spend for the developing. And as you become more enmeshed with the activity, you will probably be adding a list of different add ons for your camera or even buy special cameras that perform specific tasks.

One of the most common add-ons that professional and even amateur photographers spend their money on is the lens. This is one of the most basic parts of the camera and yet the most crucial. There are different kinds of lens that function according to the needs of the photographer.

Most cameras especially those that are used by professionals have the option to interchange or add lens. There are actually to main types, the fixed focal lenses, which are also called the prime lenses and the zoom, which is primarily used to alter the focal length and lets you take shots of objects that are really far away.

Wide angle lens, for instance, will allow you to take photos within short distances. This is ideal in photoshoots that are done with limited space. With a wide angle lens, the photographer need not walk backwards to be able to get the whole image. Telephoto lens, on the other hand, will allow you to narrow down the angle of view. This is also called the long focus lens because it allows one to take pictures in long distances. One kind is the short telephoto lens that are especially great with pictures from head and shoulders. This is why it is also called portrait lens.

Another kind of lens is the zoom lens, which come in different focal lengths. You should remember that there are zoom lens that can also function as a telephoto or wide-angle lens. This is why some photographers invest in good zoom lens instead of buying separate lens. In addition to the convenience in price, buying zoom lens will also lessen the equipment that you have to carry.

Other equipments that a photographer have to invest in are tripods and of course a good camera case that will protect it from all kinds of weather. Tripods are used to minimize the shakiness of the camera that will result in blurred or double images. For personal use, tripods are handy if the photographer also want to be included in the photo.