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The Ultimate Portrait Photography Cheat Sheet: Essential Tips and Tricks

by admin September 15, 2023

The Ultimate Portrait Photography Cheat Sheet: Essential Tips and Tricks

Portrait Photography Cheat Sheet

1. Lighting in Portrait Photography: – Natural light – Golden hour – Avoid midday sunlight – Artificial light – Strobes, continuous lights, household lamps – Modifiers – Softboxes – Umbrellas – Reflectors

2. Composition and Posing: – Rule of thirds – Leading lines – Posing techniques

3. Camera and Lens Selection: – Camera types: DSLR vs. Mirrorless – Lens selection: 85mm-135mm, wide apertures – Budget considerations

4. Essential Camera Settings: – Aperture – Shutter speed – ISO – White balance

5. Capturing Natural Expressions: – Engage with the subject – Be patient – Give direction – Capture in-between moments

6. Editing and Retouching: – Cropping and straightening – Exposure and contrast – Color correction – Skin retouching – Sharpening and noise reduction

7. Creative Ideas and Inspiration: – Environmental portraits – Double exposure – Silhouettes – Black and white – Creative lighting

8. Equipment and Accessories: – Tripod – Reflector – Remote shutter release – Backdrop and props – External flash or strobe

Welcome to the ultimate portrait photography cheat sheet! Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner looking to improve your skills, this article has essential tips and tricks to help you capture stunning portraits.

In the fast-paced world of photography, it’s important to have a handy resource with the knowledge and techniques needed to create captivating portraits. This cheat sheet offers a comprehensive guide to all the key aspects of portrait photography.

We’ll cover everything from lighting and composition to posing and editing. Learn how to utilise natural light to enhance your subject’s features, master the art of posing to flatter your model, and discover the best editing techniques to bring out the true essence of your portraits.

With our expert advice and practical tips, you can take your portrait photography to the next level. So, grab your camera, get creative, and dive into the world of stunning portraits.

Understanding lighting in portrait photography

Lighting is one of the most crucial elements in portrait photography. It can make or break your image. Understanding how to use light effectively will help you create captivating portraits that shine.

1. Natural light: Take advantage of natural light when shooting outdoors. Just after sunrise and before sunset, the golden hour offers soft, warm light that adds a beautiful glow to your subjects. Avoid harsh midday sunlight, which can cast unflattering shadows and cause squinting.

2. Artificial light: When shooting indoors or in low-light situations, you must rely on artificial light sources. Experiment with different types of lighting, such as strobes, continuous lights, or even simple household lamps. Remember to position your lights strategically to achieve the desired effect.

3. Modifiers: To control the direction and quality of light, use modifiers like softboxes, umbrellas, and reflectors. Softboxes diffuse the light, creating a soft and even illumination. Umbrellas can spread the light over a larger area, while reflectors bounce light back onto the subject, filling in shadows and adding a touch of sparkle to the eyes.

Understanding how to manipulate light will allow you to create a variety of moods and effects in your portraits. Experiment with different lighting setups, and don’t be afraid to push the boundaries of your creativity.

Composition and posing techniques for portrait photography

Composition and posing are essential elements of portrait photography. They help create balance, emphasize the subject, and convey a certain mood or message. Here are some techniques to keep in mind:

1. Rule of thirds: Instead of placing your subject dead centre in the frame, divide the image into a 3×3 grid and position your subject along the intersecting lines. This creates a more visually appealing composition and adds interest to the image.

2. Leading lines: Use lines in the environment to lead the viewer’s eye towards the subject. This could be a path, a fence, or even the natural lines formed by the subject’s body. Leading lines add depth and guide the viewer’s attention where you want it to go.

3. Posing: Good posing can make or break a portrait. Communicate with your subject and direct them to find flattering angles and natural positions. Encourage them to relax and feel comfortable in front of the camera. Experiment with different poses and expressions to capture a range of emotions.

Remember, making your subject feel at ease and confident is the key. Building a rapport with your subject will result in more authentic and engaging portraits.

Choosing the right camera and lenses for portrait photography

Selecting the right camera and lenses is crucial for capturing stunning portraits. While there is no one-size-fits-all answer, here are some considerations to keep in mind:

1. Camera type: Both DSLR and mirrorless cameras can produce excellent portrait images. DSLRs offer a wider range of lens options and better battery life, while mirrorless cameras offer more compact features like real-time exposure previews. Ultimately, choose a camera that feels comfortable to use and meets your specific needs.

2. Lens selection: A portrait lens with a focal length between 85mm and 135mm is ideal for flattering perspective and background compression. Prime lenses with wide apertures, such as f/1.8 or f/1.4, allow for beautiful shallow depth of field and bokeh. Experiment with different focal lengths to find your preferred style.

3. Consider your budget: Photography equipment can be expensive, so it’s important to consider it. Invest in quality lenses, which impact image quality more than the camera body. Consider renting equipment if you need something specific for a particular shoot.

Remember, the camera and lenses are just tools. Your skill and creativity will ultimately make your portraits stand out.

Essential camera settings for portrait photography

Getting the right camera settings is essential for capturing stunning portraits. Here are some key settings to consider:

1. Aperture: Selecting the right aperture will determine the depth of field in your images. For portraits, a wide aperture (small f-number) like f/2.8 or wider will create a shallow depth of field, making the subject stand out from the background. Experiment with different apertures to achieve the desired effect.

2. Shutter speed: To avoid camera shake and motion blur, use a shutter speed equal to your lens’s focal length. For example, if you’re shooting with a 50mm lens, use a shutter speed of 1/50th of a second or faster. If shooting handheld, consider using image stabilization or a tripod.

3. ISO: Keep your ISO as low as possible to minimize image noise. Start with a low ISO setting, such as 100 or 200, and increase it only if necessary in low-light situations. Remember that higher ISO values can introduce digital noise, so find the balance between a clean image and the amount of available light.

4. White balance: Set your white balance according to the lighting conditions to ensure accurate colour reproduction. You can choose from preset white balance settings, such as daylight, cloudy, or tungsten, or manually adjust the white balance using a grey card or the Kelvin temperature scale.

By mastering these essential camera settings, you’ll have more control over the technical aspects of your portraits, allowing you to focus on capturing the moment and telling a story.

Tips for capturing natural expressions and emotions in portraits

Capturing natural expressions and emotions is key to creating compelling portraits. Here are some tips to help you achieve this:

1. Engage with your subject: Interact and make them feel comfortable. Engage in conversation, tell jokes, or play music to create a relaxed atmosphere. Encourage them to be themselves and bring out their genuine emotions.

2. Be patient: Allow your subject time to get comfortable in front of the camera. Sometimes, the best shots come when the subject is unaware of being photographed. Be patient and ready to capture those candid moments.

3. Give direction: While natural expressions are important, providing some guidance can help capture the desired mood or emotion. Direct your subject with specific instructions, such as “look over your shoulder” or “tilt your head slightly.” This gentle guidance can enhance the overall composition and storytelling of the image.

4. Capture in-between moments: Don’t limit yourself to just capturing posed shots. Pay attention to the moments between candid interactions and genuine expressions. These unguarded moments often reveal the true personality and emotion of your subject.

Remember, the goal is to capture the essence of your subject and tell their story through your images. Be observant, patient, and ready to capture those fleeting moments.

Editing and retouching techniques for portrait photography

Editing is an essential part of the portrait photography process. It allows you to enhance the mood, correct imperfections, and add the finishing touches to your images. Here are some editing and retouching techniques to consider:

1. Cropping and straightening: Use cropping to improve composition and remove distractions from the frame. Straighten horizons and lines to create a more balanced and professional look.

2. Adjusting exposure and contrast: Fine-tune the exposure and contrast to enhance the overall tonal range of the image. Use curves, levels, or sliders to bring out the details in the shadows and highlights.

3. Color correction: Adjust the white balance and temperature for accurate colour representation. Fine-tune the saturation and vibrance to achieve the desired look and mood.

4. Skin retouching: Use techniques like frequency separation or dodge and burn to smooth out skin tones and remove blemishes. Be careful not to overdo it, as natural skin texture is important for a realistic and flattering result.

5. Sharpening and noise reduction: Apply selective sharpening to enhance the details in the eyes, hair, and clothing. Use noise reduction techniques to minimize digital noise, especially in low-light or high-ISO images.

Remember, editing should enhance the image, not completely alter it. When capturing the portrait, keep the edits subtle and true to your original vision.

Creative ideas and inspiration for portrait photography

Looking for some creative ideas and inspiration for your portrait photography? Here are a few suggestions to get you started:

1. Environmental portraits: Instead of shooting in a studio, take your subjects to a location that tells their story. Whether it’s their workplace, a favourite park, or their own home, capturing them in their natural environment adds depth and context to the image.

2. Double exposure: Experiment with double exposure techniques to create unique and dreamy portraits. Combine a portrait with a landscape or an abstract pattern to add an artistic touch to your images.

3. Silhouettes: Use backlighting to create striking silhouettes. Position your subject against a bright background, such as a sunset or a window, and expose the background to create a dramatic outline.

4. Black and white: Convert your portraits to black and white to emphasize the mood and focus on the subject’s expression. Black and white images can convey a timeless and classic feel.

5. Creative lighting: Experiment with different lighting techniques, such as coloured gels, to add a creative twist to your portraits. Use unconventional sources like fairy lights or neon signs to create interesting and eye-catching effects.

Remember, creativity knows no bounds. Don’t be afraid to try new techniques, push your boundaries, and make your portraits unique.

Portrait photography equipment and accessories

While you can create stunning portraits with just a camera and a lens, some additional equipment and accessories can elevate your photography. Here are some worth considering:

1. Tripod: A sturdy tripod is essential for sharp and stable images, especially when shooting in low-light situations or using longer focal lengths. It allows you to keep the camera steady and experiment with longer exposure times.

2. Reflector: A reflector is a versatile tool that can bounce light back onto your subject, filling in shadows and adding a catchlight to the eyes. It’s a simple and affordable accessory that can make a big difference in the overall look of your portraits.

3. Remote shutter release: A remote shutter release allows you to trigger the camera without touching it, reducing the risk of camera shake. It’s especially useful when shooting self-portraits or when you must be far from the camera.

4. Backdrop and props: If you’re shooting in a studio or controlled environment, backdrops and props can add interest and variety to your portraits. Experiment with different colours, textures, and themes to create unique, personalized images.

5. External flash or strobe: While natural light is beautiful, having an external flash or strobe gives you more control over the lighting situation. It allows you to fill in shadows and add a touch of creativity to your portraits.

Remember, equipment and accessories are tools to enhance your photography, but they should never be a substitute for creativity and skill.

Conclusion and final thoughts

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of the ultimate portrait photography cheat sheet. We’ve covered everything from understanding lighting and composition to choosing the right camera and lenses, as well as essential camera settings and editing techniques.

Remember, portrait photography is an art form that requires practice, patience, and creativity. Keep experimenting, learning, and pushing your boundaries. With dedication and passion, you’ll be able to capture stunning portraits that tell stories, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression.

So, grab your camera, apply the tips and tricks you’ve learned, and embark on your journey to becoming a master of portrait photography. The world is waiting to see your incredible portraits. Happy shooting!

September 15, 2023 0 comment

Photography Marketing Photography Marketing Business

Guide to Fashion Photography – What is Fashion Photography?

by James Nader September 6, 2023

Editorial fashion photography can be similar to lifestyle photography and will often include aspirational content. This type of photography can convey a message about a product or a brand, provide a narrative, or illustrate a current trend in the industry.

Defining Fashion and Advertising Photography

Fashion photographers like me are responsible for how clothing is presented in advertising campaigns, catalogues and fashion magazines. They work closely with designers and fashion houses to ensure they are portraying the desired image for the brand. I work in studios or shoot campaigns on location.

“Fashion photography” centers around “showcasing apparel” and “style-related products” in the most captivating manner. Leading “fashion and advertising photographers” often set these items in “trendy settings” or portray “models” in dynamic, almost theatrical poses. Why? To weave a narrative around the “brand identity”, making it a must-have for “fashion enthusiasts”. This style of photography seamlessly integrates with genres like “portrait photography”, “product photography”, and even “fine art photography”. The true genius of a fashion photographer, especially in advertising, lies in their ability to convey a “brand’s story” and create market appeal.

Exploring the Diverse Styles in Fashion and Advertising Photography

Given that “fashion and advertising photography” isn’t confined to a single aesthetic, it’s beneficial to recognize its diverse “photography styles”. These styles serve to present fashion items in unique contexts, aligning with the “brand messaging” and catering to “target audiences”. By understanding these styles, brands can ensure their “ad campaigns” and “editorial shoots” resonate with potential buyers.

Here are some of the biggest and most common ones.

Editorial Fashion Photography

In other words, editorial fashion photographs look at the model in an environment other than a studio. It’s about showcasing a lifestyle – where styling is everything.

High Fashion Photography

You’ll often find this type of photography on single-page magazine advertisements, billboard campaigns, high-end books – perhaps even a fine art exhibition.

Their primary purpose?

Grab the attention of the viewer! High fashion shoots are generally highly stylized, with avant-garde poses and over-the-top outfits.

It’s also the type of photography where you can kiss reality goodbye and get as wild and freaky as you’d like. Because with high fashion photography, you’re not just selling a fashion item; you’re selling the creative vision that a fashion shoot brings.

Catalogue Photos

Catalogue photographs are all about shooting ordinary people in fashion items. These types of fashion shoots aim to show the clothing neutrally. This means these shots are usually shot in a studio with a neutral background, so there’s nothing that distracts the viewers from what they should notice – the clothing! A catalogue fashion shoot shows the fashion items clearly and attractively so the viewers can see how they look and fit before they buy.

Street Fashion Photography

This type of fashion photography is gaining more and more popularity and no doubt you’ve seen these types of images on Instagram and other social media channels. Street-style photos are shot on location in everyday environments. They’re all about the real world; what are people wearing and how are they styling it – that’s what you’re showing. In these shoots, the model blends in with those around them. They’re in their natural element instead of a stylized and perfect world.

Camera equipment used for fashion photography

Like any other photo shoot, there will be a lot of nice equipment, including fashion photography. The important part is keeping it simple and fitting to your experience level.

Rumour has it that the best way to start shooting fashion is to shoot with one camera, one lens, and one light.

Why so simple?

Starting with a simple equipment setup in any photography will help you learn the ropes fast. Once you’ve built up your style and know what you’re going for, you can easily add the necessary equipment. Especially in the world of fashion, as this is one of the most variable types of photography. Get your complete overview of the equipment you need for fashion photography.

Correct settings

Magic camera settings that will make the perfect fashion photographs for you – (however lovely it would be) don’t exist. Luckily, there does exist a camera setting that’ll meet you at least halfway.

Overall, it would be best if you always shot in RAW. Shooting in RAW will store more photographic data in the image and give you more ‘play’ in post-processing.

If you’re doing a basic studio shoot, where everything needs to be sharp and in focus, you can try these settings and then adjust from there:

Aperture: 7.1 or 8
Shutter speed: around 160
ISO: 160 to 200

Shooting Mode

The first thing you must do is get out of Auto mode. For fashion photography, you want to be in full Manual mode to give you more control and consistency to your shots.

Shutter Speed

Depending on your lighting, you’ll need different shutter speeds.

However, you generally want to use a shutter speed faster than 1/100th to avoid any hand-shake. However, if you’re using flash, you shouldn’t go faster than 1/200th of a second.

Are you planning to catch some motion? In that case, the ideal shutter speed for your fashion photography will depend on how fast the action being photographed is.

Aperture

You need to control the aperture to ensure an excellent shallow depth of field. Having a shallow depth of field directs the viewers’ attention to the focal point as everything else blurs.

While you’re shooting, remember that you need to check your focus to ensure it’s on your subject. The aperture will be determined automatically by your camera.

ISO

Aiming for a higher ISO will make you more light-sensitive and increase grain appearance. In contrast, a lower ISO will have less of both. To avoid grain appearance, set your ISO as low as possible – preferably somewhere between 100 and 200. You can push the ISO higher if the light is low. Keep in mind, though, that different cameras will handle grain differently. An ISO of 800 in one camera may look clear, while in another camera, an ISO of 800 may be very grainy.

As you get more experienced, you don’t have to follow these strict guidelines – you can always experiment with your camera settings to fit your shooting needs.

6 Tips to get started with fashion photography

The fashion industry is one of those industries where you need a lot of skill and sass. It’s a challenging industry to get into. So, we’ve listed some of the essentials you need to consider when starting as a fashion photographer.

1. Prep stage

Familiar with the phrase, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail,” or maybe “Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.”? I could keep going, but when some of the greats (yes, I do classify Abraham Lincoln and Benjamin Franklin as the greats, excuse me) emphasize the importance of preparation – you ought to listen. And when it comes to fashion photography, I’d say they hit the nail.

Being too prepared is not a thing. You must prepare everything from camera equipment and settings to outfits and locations. Before your shoot starts, imagine each phase of your fashion shoot and think about what you’ll need for each stage.

Something that’ll help you – a mood board (in filmmaking terms, you might know it as a storyboard). Then, start assembling your team, which entails models, stylists, hair and makeup artists, assistants, etc. Work out the necessary agreements and release forms and scout for a location that fits your concept.

2. Choose your model

The thought of working with models can seem terrifying, but you have to get used to it. As a fashion photographer, it’s part of your job. You know the expression, “just imagine them in their underwear.”, Well, lucky for you – most of the time, the models are actually in their underwear, which’ll make it easier. I’m kidding, of course! But models are just doing a job – the same as you, and they might be just as nervous as you (they are the ones in underwear, after all). So, give positive and constructive feedback and show the model your work so he/she knows what’s going on and how it looks. Also – always be mindful; in some ways, it’s your colleague, so be respectful and never touch the model without permission.

Finding your fashion models

You can find potential models for your fashion shoot in a few ways. Here, an online agency or by starting as an assistant to a fashion photographer. You could also look for models in online advertisements Facebook and Instagram are great platforms for this.

3. Try on different angles

Don’t limit yourself to only doing eye-level angles. Explore your environment and try different angles from which you can photograph your model. Remember the mood you’re trying to convey, as different camera angles will convey different moods. Each angle has pros and cons, so think about their effect on your viewers.

If you’re unsure about the different camera angles and what they can do for your image, discover our guide on 50+ camera angles.

Experiment with poses

Fashion photography separates from any other genre due to one main factor – you’re showcasing fashion, not the model!

That means you should always consider how to emphasize the fashion items in your images. So, do not obstruct the outfit’s details when you pose your subject. It’s your job as the photographer to make sure the viewers see the product’s selling point.

Use the outfits actively.

As your fashion pictures will be static, showing the outfits in their proper form can be challenging. The outfit can look stiff without any movement, which is not always a great look.

Think about creating movement in the fabric as much as possible. That could, for example, let the model run around – so the material flows in the air.

Use props to create a theme.

Props can often help create a coherent theme in your fashion shoot and work well for providing some context and adding dimension to your composition. Props are also handy if nothing significant happens in the frame to make it look more attractive.

4. Background & location

When doing fashion photographs, you should always be mindful of the background. It plays an essential role in your composition.

Imagine you’re showcasing Juicy Couture’s new pink tracksuit, choosing a pink background – not necessarily the best idea, as that will hide the clothing more than it will highlight it (see a big difference between hide and height). The background should also help guide the viewer’s attention to the models (hint! People will naturally follow lines and curves).

Similarly, you can use squares and rectangles to frame your model. People will naturally be drawn to the model when you put your subject in a “box” (not literally).

Let the model interact with the environment.

Rather than having your model stand around, get them to interact with their surroundings to create a more dynamic image. It will help make posing more natural and less awkward, as well as it can help create an exciting composition. If you ever find yourself in Rome around Piazza di Spagna, have your model sit on the stairs or lean against the handrail, as this will make them feel more relaxed and less posy. Of course, if you’re in Birmingham somewhere – I’m sure there are some stairs you can also use there.

Location vs studio

Location plays a significant role in the final product of your shoot. It might be a catalogue fashion shoot, where a studio might be perfect. However, suppose you want to experiment and be a bit more innovative. In that case, finding some exciting locations is a good idea. Whether that’s somewhere on an exotic island or a beautiful brick wall, both places are valid – it all depends on the atmosphere you’re trying to create.

Remember, it’s best to plan this. That way, you’re not wasting time during shooting day, and you have an idea of the photos you want to take.

5. Lighting

If there is one thing you need to know when getting into fashion photography – it’s lighting. From harshly lit summer beaches to studio shoots with strobes and colour gels, fashion photographers must master lighting techniques.

Most fashion photographs use very high-key lighting that minimizes shadows and contrasts. When low-key images are used, the shadows must be carefully controlled to flatter the model and the clothing.

Some standard lighting techniques include:

Split and Hero lighting
Loop lighting
Butterfly and Clamshell lighting
Rim lighting
Flash and Ambient light

The above-listed lighting techniques are far from exhaustive but will, in many cases, be a good starting point. Explore many more lighting techniques in our guide on various lighting setups.

6. Composition & patterns

Suppose you’ve read this blog post carefully (collectively nodding*) and read the word composition once or thrice about now – there’s a reason for that. Composition is essential in any style or genre of photography. It allows the subjects and settings to look more exciting and professional than a random shot.

Composition is used to enhance the subject and guide the viewers’ attention. To make it just a tad more manageable, here are some valuable tips to help you take well-composed magazine-worthy photographs.

The rule of thirds

You might have heard or used this one before – it’s a classic. Its purpose is to provide the photographer with a creative guide that can help them connect with the viewer.

It entails dividing your frame (yes, you got it) into nine equal segments, with two horizontal lines and two vertical lines. The idea is to place your subject along these lines or at the points where they intersect. It’s a great way to draw attention to your subject.

Leading lines

Leading lines are a fantastic compositional technique that guides viewers’ eyes and creates a more harmonious and dynamic photograph. Leading lines can be almost anything – paths, roads, bridges, or natural elements like rivers or tree branches.

Framing

Using natural elements or objects in your scene to frame your subject can create a more immersive and engaging photograph. This technique draws the viewer’s attention to the subject and adds depth and context to the image.

Patterns

Patterns are repetitive elements in your composition that can create a visually pleasing and dynamic photograph. Whether it’s a pattern in the clothing, the background, or the way the model is posed, incorporating patterns can add interest and intrigue to your fashion photography.

Symmetry and balance

Creating a sense of symmetry and balance in your composition can create a harmonious and visually pleasing photograph. You can achieve symmetry through your subject’s placement, props or objects in the scene, or even post-processing techniques.

Experiment and practice

To become a successful fashion photographer, experiment and practice regularly. Try different techniques, styles, and approaches to see what works best for you. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes and learn from them.

Also, studying established fashion photographers’ work can provide valuable insights and inspiration. Look at fashion magazines, websites, and social media platforms to see what’s trending and what resonates with you.

Building a portfolio of your best work is essential for attracting clients and opportunities in the fashion industry. Consider collaborating with models, stylists, makeup artists, and other professionals to create stunning fashion photography projects that showcase your skills and creativity.

In conclusion, fashion photography is a dynamic and creative genre that offers endless possibilities for artistic expression. With the right equipment, knowledge, and practice, you can develop your unique style and make a name for yourself in the fashion industry. So grab your camera, gather your team, and start capturing the world of fashion through your lens!

September 6, 2023 0 comment

Tips for Taking Great Marketing Pictures - Silvergumtype

Photography Marketing Business

Photography Marketing Ideas – How to Market your Business

by admin September 4, 2023

Photography Marketing Ideas are useful to maximize your photography website with a stunning photography portfolio and strong phot website seo SEO to capture leads. Use social media, especially Instagram and Pinterest, to display your best shots and interact with a photography-focused audience. Curate photography newsletters that feature photo shoots, tips, and exclusive deals to keep your community engaged. Partner with local businesses to showcase your photography skills in real-world settings, attracting potential clients. Launch a referral program offering photo discounts to clients who bring you new business. Donate photography services to charities, gaining exposure and network connections. Incorporate video to offer photography tips or behind-the-scenes looks, elevating your brand’s credibility.

Optimize website – zero in on target market
Use social media – Create a database of customers
Send email updates – Newsletters and updates
Team up with local businesses – Forge alliances
Fine-tune SEO – Perfect SEO Strategies
Encourage referrals – Use other vendors for reffereals and testimonials
Support charity – Help out others in a genuine way and get notices

If you’re a photographer looking to boost your business, you understand that marketing is as crucial as a well-composed shot. Many photographers, especially when busy, neglect marketing, not realizing its long-term benefits. In this blog post, we’ve curated 15 game-changing marketing strategies tailored for photographers.

1. Zero in on Your Target Market for Tailored Marketing Campaigns

Before diving into any marketing strategy, it’s imperative to define your niche. The more specific you get about your target audience, the more targeted and effective your marketing initiatives will be. For example, if you specialize in food photography, consider narrowing it down further to restaurant or packaging photography. By doing this, you can focus your marketing efforts where they matter most and grow your clientele more effectively.

2. Create a Customer Database for Effective Project Tracking

Once you’ve determined your target market, it’s time to get organized. Setting up a client database helps you keep track of prospects, projects, and potential partnerships. A well-maintained database acts as a pipeline through which you can nurture relationships, from the first interaction to ongoing engagement. Many CRM software options like Dubsado, Nutshell, and Insightly integrate well with other applications such as Google Calendar, making project tracking easier.

3. Maintain an Updated Portfolio Website to Display Your Craft

Your portfolio website is the face of your business in the digital world. Make sure it’s updated with your latest work, your services, contact information, and client testimonials. Adding a bio that includes both your professional achievements and personal interests can help clients feel connected to you and foster trust.

4. Utilize Blogging for SEO and Expert Positioning

Blogging is more than just a platform to showcase your expertise; it’s also an SEO tool. Consistently updating your blog with useful information and captivating photos can boost your Google search rankings, widening your online visibility. SEO-optimized posts targeted at your audience can offer value and increase your website traffic.

5. Forge Alliances with Industry Vendors for Referrals

Forming partnerships with vendors in your specialty area can be a goldmine for referrals. For example, if you specialize in wedding photography, alliances with florists, venues, and caterers can benefit both parties. You offer each other referrals, expanding your clientele without extra advertising costs.

6. Utilize Social Media to Showcase Your Work

Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook are excellent mediums for photographers to showcase their work. By using hashtags and engaging with followers, you can extend your reach beyond your current audience. Posting consistently and sharing behind-the-scenes content can help keep your audience engaged and attract new clients.

7. Offer Limited-Time Promotions or Packages

Limited-time offers create a sense of urgency, encouraging potential clients to act quickly. Offering specialized packages for seasons, holidays, or events can not only drive sales but also introduce your services to a broader audience who may not have considered hiring a professional photographer before.

8. Network with Other Photographers

Networking isn’t just about gaining clients; it’s also about learning and growing in your field. Collaborating or even just socializing with other photographers can provide new perspectives, share clientele, and even result in referrals. Many cities have photography meet-ups, workshops, and seminars that offer excellent networking opportunities.

9. Leverage Email Marketing

Don’t underestimate the power of a well-crafted email. Collecting emails through your website and social media allows you to send out newsletters, special promotions, or updates about your work. Email marketing platforms like Mailchimp offer analytics so you can optimize your campaigns for the highest engagement and conversion rates.

10. Attend Industry Events and Workshops

Participating in or even just attending industry-specific events can offer multiple benefits. These settings provide an excellent opportunity for networking, learning new skills, and even getting your work noticed. Keep an eye on photography expos, trade shows, and workshops happening in your area or even online.

11. Invest in Online Advertising

If your budget allows, consider investing in online advertising through platforms like Google Ads or social media sponsored posts. These platforms offer targeted advertising, allowing you to reach potential clients based on location, interest, or behavior.

12. Encourage Client Reviews and Testimonials

Client testimonials can be incredibly influential in convincing potential customers to opt for your services. Encourage satisfied clients to leave reviews on Google, Yelp, or directly on your website. Positive reviews boost your credibility and can significantly impact your online ranking.

13. Optimize for Mobile Users

As a large percentage of users browse websites on their phones, having a mobile-optimized website is crucial. Ensure your site looks good and functions well on smartphones and tablets to offer the best user experience, which Google also considers for website rankings.

14. Dabble in Content Marketing

Apart from blogging, consider other forms of content like podcasts, webinars, or even short video tutorials that can offer value to your clients. This not only positions you as an expert in your field but also helps in keeping your audience engaged.

15. Measure and Analyze Your Marketing Efforts

Lastly, what gets measured gets managed. Use analytics tools to track the effectiveness of your marketing campaigns. Platforms like Google Analytics can provide insights into how visitors interact with your website and which marketing channels are most effective.

By incorporating these 15 essential marketing strategies, you’re well on your way to developing a more sustainable and successful photography business. Remember, marketing is an ongoing process that should continually be refined based on performance metrics and changing market conditions.

Some useful Hashtags to help your Photography Marketing

#commercialphotography #productphotography #photography #advertisingphotography #commercialphotographer #photographer #productphotographer #portraitphotography #photoshoot #photooftheday #commercial #foodphotography #advertising #portrait #studiophotography #canon #productshoot #fashionphotography #productphoto #stilllifephotography #fashion #branding #model #productphotoshoot #product #instagood #stilllife #advertisingphotographer #lifestylephotography #art

September 4, 2023 0 comment

Photography Marketing Business

15 Essential Strategies for Successful Photography Marketing

by admin July 19, 2023

The photography industry combines creative expression with business savvy, making it an exciting and developing industry. More than simply technical proficiency in the darkroom is required to turn your passion for photography into a successful business. This calls for prior market research, a solid marketing plan, and a thorough understanding of the photography sector. Photographers need to think like businesses and artists to flourish in today’s market. Whatever your area of focus—weddings, commercial photography, portraits, or another—establishing a solid foundation for your photography business is crucial.

A photography business needs a strong foundation founded on a mission and strategy that are clearly defined. Identifying your target market and your company’s USP is the first step in creating a solid brand and attracting the right clients. Finding your niche lets you concentrate your marketing efforts on the customers most likely to purchase from you and helps you build authority in your industry.

A thorough business strategy must be written to be successful in the photography industry over the long run. This document must examine the competitive environment and include marketing and financial forecasts. To help you make wiser choices and maintain the direction of your company, utilize this plan as a roadmap.

Any photographic business must have strong customer ties to succeed. From when a customer contacts you until they receive the final photo package, providing excellent customer service should be your first concern. Open lines of communication with clients, prompt responses to their questions, and exceeding their expectations are all essential components in building a devoted following and promoting positive word of mouth.

When it comes to growing your photography business, marketing is just as crucial as keeping up solid customer connections. By using a combination of online and offline marketing strategies, such as social media, SEO, networking events, and partnerships, you may increase your brand’s visibility and attract new customers. Your company will appear more professional and respectable if your brand’s logo, tagline, and other visual components remain consistent across all media.

Setting fair charges for your services is one of the most crucial aspects of operating a photography business. Your skill, experience, and the market’s demand for your particular area of expertise determine how fairly you will be compensated. Once you’ve considered things like overhead, equipment costs, editing and post-production time, and other factors, you may determine appropriate prices for your services with the help of market research and an examination of industry norms.

It would be best if you prioritised constantly advancing your abilities and understanding as the proprietor of a photographic business. If you stay up with contemporary business trends, technological advancements, and innovative tactics, you may grow your skills and offer more cutting-edge solutions to your clients. By participating in activities like workshops, conferences, and online courses, you might learn a lot and develop excellent relationships in the photographic community.

In today’s fast-paced digital economy, making the most of technology is crucial for maximizing business processes. You may streamline operations, save time, and wow your clients with client management software, online reservations, and digital asset management technologies.

Achieving a successful balance between artistic vision and financial savvy is essential for the photographic industry. If you combine your passion for the business of photography with sound business judgment, you may develop a long-lasting, fulfilling profession. Remember that taking great images isn’t enough to thrive in the commercial photography industry. It requires building a distinctive brand, connecting with the right people, and remaining adaptable in the face of ongoing change. The photography industry combines creative expression with business savvy, making it an exciting and developing industry. More than simply technical proficiency in the darkroom is required to turn your passion for photography into a successful business. This calls for prior market research, a solid marketing plan, and a thorough understanding of the photography sector.

Photographers need to think like businesses and artists to flourish in today’s market. Whatever your area of focus—weddings, commercial photography, portraits, or another—establishing a solid foundation for your photography business is crucial.

A thorough business strategy must be written to succeed in the photography industry over the long run. This document must examine the competitive environment and include marketing and financial forecasts. To help you make wiser choices and maintain the direction of your company, utilize this plan as a roadmap.

Setting fair charges for your services is one of the most crucial aspects of operating a photography business. Your skill, experience, and the market’s demand for expertise determine how fairly you will be compensated. Once you’ve considered things like overhead, equipment costs, editing and post-production time, and other factors, you may determine appropriate prices for your services with the help of market research and an examination of industry norms.

It would be best if you made it to prioritise constantly advancing abilities and understanding as the proprietor of a photographic business. If you stay up with contemporary business trends, technological advancements, and innovative tactics, you may grow your skills and offer more cutting-edge solutions to your clients. You might learn a lot by participating in activities like workshops, conferences, and online courses and developing excellent relationships in the photographic community.

Identify Your Target Market: To advertise your photography business successfully, it’s critical to pinpoint your niche within the photography sector. You can target clients in those particular markets by focusing on a smaller segment of your specialization, such as wedding or commercial photography. Thanks to this targeted approach, you can better grasp the wants and demands of your target market, which will make your marketing efforts more successful.
Create and manage a customer database: Doing so will help you keep track of your client’s information and remain organized in your photography marketing efforts. You can keep track of client information, project specifics, and prospective collaboration chances with a thorough database. A more efficient and successful marketing plan may be achieved by having this centralized resource, which makes it simple to access customer information, follow up with prospects, and nurture leads.
Optimize Your Website: Your website is a crucial marketing tool for your photography business. It should be visually appealing and highlight your greatest work to attract potential clients. Your portfolio, services, customer endorsements, and an engaging “About” page should all be highlighted on a well-designed website. Additionally, adding a blog area to your website can help you become known as a subject-matter authority in your field, increase search engine visibility, and engage visitors with relevant information.
Expand Your Email List: An essential component of effective photography marketing is an email list. You may stay in touch with your audience and develop long-lasting relationships by gathering email addresses from interested potential customers and returning customers. You may communicate directly with your subscribers through email marketing to share news, special offers, and helpful content. The likelihood of recurring business and recommendations increases when you build a loyal email list that allows you to interact with your audience more personally.
Program for Referrals: Word-of-mouth recommendations can be a significant source of new customers for your photography business. Putting in place a reference program encourages pleased customers to refer your services to others. You may motivate customers to recommend you to their friends, family, and coworkers by providing incentives like discounts on subsequent sessions or free prints. Your clientele can be greatly increased, and your company’s growth can be dramatically accelerated via a well-run referral program.
Use excellent PDF mailers to present your recent work to potential clients if you specialize in commercial or advertising photography. You can download these digital portfolios from your website or share them via email. You may inform prospective clients about your skills and approach by updating your PDF mailers with your best and most pertinent work. This proactive approach increases your chances of being selected for pertinent initiatives and partnerships.
Run Contests or Giveaways to Engage Your Audience: Running contests or giveaways on social media platforms is an innovative method to engage your audience and draw in new leads. You can spark interest and promote engagement by giving away a worthwhile prize for your photography offerings. These giveaways aid in spreading the word about your company, growing your fan base, and increasing brand awareness. They also allow you to present your work and show prospective customers what value you can offer.
Improve Online Exposure with Google Business Pages: Setting up a Google Business Page is a crucial step to increase your online exposure and the likelihood that potential customers will find your photography business while searching on Google. You may improve your search engine rankings and gain potential customers’ trust by filling out your business profile with factual information, such as your address and phone number, and by encouraging customers to submit favourable reviews.
Please use Social Media Platforms: Instagram and Pinterest, for example, provide excellent chances for photographers to promote their work and draw in a larger audience. Focus on publishing high-quality photos, interacting with your followers, and using relevant hashtags to expand your reach on Instagram. On the other side, Pinterest can function as a formidable visual search engine where you can make boards relevant to your photographic niche, draw in new customers, and increase traffic to your website. Your photography marketing efforts can be significantly improved by regularly posting captivating material and conversing with your audience on these sites.
Use customer testimonials: Customer testimonials are a practical kind of social proof and can significantly impact the legitimacy of your photography business. To win over new customers, provide client endorsements in your marketing materials, social network profiles, and website content. These endorsements must be truthful and concise and emphasize the fruitful interactions and results your clients have had with your offerings. Prospective customers may be more likely to choose your photographic services if you share sincere testimonials from satisfied customers.
Partner with Charities: Working with charities compatible with your photography business can benefit both parties. Supporting a cause you are passionate about allows you to give back to the community, grow your network, and attract new clients. As a family photographer, for instance, collaborating with a hospital or charitable organization for kids can open doors for connecting with your target market and generating referrals. These collaborations allow you to demonstrate your expertise while having a beneficial influence, presenting your photography business as sensitive and knowledgeable.
Co-Marketing Partnerships: Expanding your reach and bringing in more customers can be accomplished by looking for co-marketing alliances with companies that serve the same target market. Search for non-competitive companies, such as wedding planners, event venues, or other complementary service providers, and look into possible joint ventures. Cross-promotion of one another’s services, referral trades, and cooperative event and promotion planning are all examples of how to do this. Through co-marketing alliances, you can take advantage of each other’s networks, pool resources, and gain more visibility and client recommendations.
Organize Open Photo Shoots: Setting up open photo shoots is a creative photography marketing technique that has several advantages. By putting on these events, you may show off your abilities, exhibit your working style, and foster networking relationships with potential customers, other photographers, and business leaders. Attendees can observe your workflow and the client experience you deliver at open photo shoots. After the event, establish contacts and nurture potential leads by following up with tailored messages and offers.
Create an Identifiable Brand: An identifiable brand is essential for differentiating your photography business in a crowded market. Your brand includes the name of your company, your logo, the layout of your website, your visual identity, and the impression you leave on people. Brand recognition and confidence are more accessible when all marketing materials and touchpoints are consistent. When creating your brand identity, please consider your target market’s tastes, ideals, and aspirations to ensure it has a more profound emotional impact.
Get Published on Photography Blogs: To boost your web exposure and attract more visitors, look for opportunities to publish on well-known photography blogs. Look up relevant photography blogs in your field and submit your finest work for review. Having your work highlighted on credible blogs strengthens your credibility and exposes it to a broader audience, potentially bringing in new customers who stumble across your photography on these sites.

July 19, 2023 0 comment

top photographers blog - fashion photograohy blog by james nader fashion photographer uk

Creative Process Photography Marketing Photography Marketing Business

Portrait Tips Every Photographer should know

by Team Nader March 15, 2023

The creative concept While the former will depend on your unique creative vision, there are a few tried-and-true rules to follow for capturing your subject in the most beautiful way possible.
If you want your portraits to connect with viewers, capturing genuine emotions is essential.

Portrait Tips Every Photographer Should Know: As a pro photographer, I want to emphasise how capturing people’s true essence and character in portrait photography is essential to producing photographs of high quality and authenticity for a perfect portrait. It’s easy to think your subject is “photogenic”, but this is false. Many people are not happy in front of the camera but photograph well, and the model-looking girl from next door looks awkward right in front of the camera. Still, their comfort level in front of the camera makes all the difference. Engaging and directing are essential to any portrait session.

But, when it comes to capturing the image, one element reigns supreme above all others: the eyes. As they say, the eyes are the windows to the soul. If your subject’s eyes aren’t sharp and in focus, no amount of perfect lighting or composition can save the shot. This is such an important point that some camera brands have even developed features like “Eye AF” to help photographers nail the shot every time.
Remember, as a photographer, make your subject feel comfortable and bring out their true essence in every photo. By mastering your people skills and focusing on the eyes, you can take your portrait photography to the next level.

A subject’s eyes are an integral element among all portrait photography tips, serving as a window to their soul. The importance of capturing razor-sharp eyes cannot be understated. An image will improve in quality even if the lighting and composition are perfectly executed if the eyes are focused. This principle is particularly relevant for beginner photographers and is so crucial that some brands, such as Sony, have incorporated ‘Eye AF’ into their cameras.
When photographing with wide apertures, particularly below f/2.8, maintaining a sharp focus on the eyes is crucial unless one wishes to experiment creatively. It can be distressing to finish a portrait session and realise upon returning home that the subject’s nose is sharp, but their eyes are out of focus in most images. To avoid this, set the focus to the central AF point, half-press the shutter to focus on the eyes, and then recompose the shot by moving the camera.
As a photographer, it is imperative to prioritise capturing sharp eyes in portrait photography. By keeping this principle in mind, one can produce high-quality images that showcase the true beauty and emotion of the subject. Using techniques such as setting focus on the central AF point and recomposing the shot can help ensure that the eyes remain in focus even when shooting with wide apertures, allowing photographers to produce exceptional portraits that captivate the viewer.

As an established professional photographer, directing your subject is crucial for capturing great images. Two key factors to consider when directing your subject are the message you want your image to convey and the best angle to showcase your subject’s features. The creative concept While the former will depend on your unique creative vision, there are a few tried-and-true rules to follow for capturing your subject in the most beautiful way possible.
If you want your portraits to connect with viewers, capturing genuine emotions is essential.

Clients often choose these images over technically perfect ones, as they want an accurate representation of themselves.
To achieve candid shots, it’s essential to direct your subject in a way that allows them to relax. Creating a relaxed environment and giving direction towards how they can pose makes It possible to capture your subject’s natural emotions. Remember.

The aperture may be the true star of portrait photography, but to have complete control over the exposure triangle and the overall look and feel of your image, you’ll need to pay attention to the shutter speed. More often than not, you’ll need to ensure you have the shutter speed to avoid any camera shake and image blur. As a rule of thumb, you should set your shutter speed to two times the focal length of your lens. For example, if you’re shooting with a 50mm lens, your shutter speed should not be lower than 1/125. Of course, this is not mandatory if you use a tripod or a lens with built-in image stabilisation. Such is the power of black and white portraits.

We can find examples of black-and-white photography in any genre, but there is something unique about monochromatic portraits. By eliminating any colour distractions, we find that the features of the subject truly stand out, and viewers find themselves discovering the small texture details of their faces. When shooting monochrome portraits, it’s recommended to capture the image in colour to retain as much information about the scene as possible and convert it to black and white afterwards using a photo editing software of your choice.

March 15, 2023 0 comment

Photo Tips Photography Marketing Photography Marketing Business

TOP TIPS FOR DRAMATIC BLACK AND WHITE IMAGES

by admin November 5, 2019

JAMES NADER – TIPS FOR GREAT BLACK AND WHITE IMAGES – MONOCHROME PORTRAIT TECHNIQUES

Black and white photography and beginning to shoot in black and white takes me back to where it all began. For me, this is where I started in photography. I was a student shooting monochrome films, processing and printing all of my own work and so I have grown up with the shill to produce compelling stories in black and white photography.

I learned over the years of shooting and processing not just how to process analog films and prints, but also processing all of my own black and white photography in the digital darkroom utilising Photoshop black and white and Lightroom techniques which closely resemble the original processes. Although in this post I won’t be going in deep about my exact processing of images, I will tell you how to think in black and white photography and give you 11 tips on how to shoot black and white photography and images.

I would say whilst it is important to understand the process, people do get a little bogged down in the metrics of the processing and how to shoot it. I am a practical photographer and really don’t pay too much attention to how it all works out in advance but really just getting on with it counts the most! Online I see so many photographers producing so many blogs and videos about the top tips and to be honest photography is not always about how it’s done it’s about just doing it and finding out for yourself. You have to make mistakes to learn the correct process which suits you and your own style of workflow and production. Get stuck in is the mantra.

Black and white photography for me is a joy and I will be doing more and setting up film shoots and sharing my processing styles boh in darkroom scenarios and in Photoshop rendering of black and white. With that in mind please find below my thoughts on top tips for black and white photography for photography and for fashion photographers.

WATCH BLACK AND WHITE MOVIES – FILM

The early black and white movies were filmed in monochrome. No luxury of using color films or technicolor to capture the viewer’s attention. Instead, they relied on their understanding of light and shade and of course composition on varying lighting and shades to get their message across. A great way of understanding how black and white can be used to create drama and stories. Look at black and white photographers such as Vincent Peters who has super black and white images or to follow the film world and their classic black and white photography my go-to book from my study days until now and a super reference better than most is this Masters of Starlight

Reference as many black and white professionals as you can to really see how they work, Ansel Adams in landscapes was the true master and used something called the Zone System ( I will discuss another in another post ) Fashion photographers, directors, fine art prints will all give you an idea of capturing but reference is key to get your eye in for black and white photography.

TRY EXPERIMENTING WITH FLAT LIGHT FIRST

When setting up shots in studio or location with flat light this would be the best way to understand the tones that you can see. It can be quite a good technique to shoot raw but view your images by setting your in-camera settings to monochrome to help your eyes adjust. Once you have a basic understanding of how to see in black and white then you can scale up your lighting to more contrasty black and white lighting. For me single light and reflection is good but also the traditional 3 points set up as many films use even to this day.

Flat light doesn’t have a large range of exposure so you are forced to examine the elements of the scene and focus on one or more deep tones that will grab viewers’ attention. Low contrast lighting helps mask detail and skin imperfections which is a great help for your editing. Mostly its how you want to see the end result as to how you will set your lights. My James Nader fashion photography technique is sometimes flat light to realise a perfect image adding in the contrasts contrast at the post-processing stage where I can get more control over the final look of the image.

SETTING THE RIGHT LIGHT IN YOUR SHOT FOR BLACK AND WHITE SHOOTING

Lighting for me and my style of photography is key to a successful shot. Understanding ow the light is falling already for example on location inside a house or outside will help you decide what light to set to complement the overall mood and story if the shot. This is even more complicated if you are shooting your images for a final monochrome look. The final intended look and feel guided by your story will help you make the decision.

High contrast fashion looks created with single light are super stoppers. They get attention and already feel more like fine art images, however, if it is for an editorial feature a strong single light could be too much for the story and even in black and white needs a little less and softer light resulting in a softer more dynamic range obvious flatter print

CREATING CONTRAST

Dramatic black and white images often have very punchy whites and strong jet blacks. This style or look benefits most landscapes but can sometimes be too overpowering. Only you will know this from your editing in post-production. It’s about creating the black and white which suits the scene and then playing around with the tones. I think for fashion work that keeping some mid-tones dynamic range is essential. Even then though you may increase your contrasts to up the drama.

Tonal contrast is the difference in brightness between the different areas of the photo. Low lights, mid-tones, high contrasts. Ignore colors and see the scene in terms of highlights and shadows and mid-tones. Working in tonal ranges you need to think about the following

Shadows
Highlights
Shapes
Lines
Textures

BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY – SHOOT IN RAW

If you shoot RAW but have your camera settings set to monochrome in the camera menu, this will help you visualise, however always make sure you shoot raw which will retain your full dynamic range and information. If not when processing and converting you will find that your high and low lights will be gone and not recoverable.

UNDER EXPOSE OR OVER EXPOSE?

A correctly exposed image is always preferred but it’s important to know that you may have to compensate or make your own adjustments to the way the camera captures the scene.

When I shoot on location outside in good weather or bad weather with added lighting than for me I always try to under-expose the shot but up to 1 stop! This is just my own technique from film shooting days. If you missed the mark with film there was no dynamic range to pull back and only a limited pull process may f helped, however pulling the exposure helps saturate the dynamic range with more information and tones. When the processing happens you have the dynamic range to play around with and create a more mono-saturated image.

Going over the top is too much od a problem so be careful and experiment. You have the luxury these days to ply around and delete any bad work. In film days you had to get it right on the spot. Enjoy this luxury!!

CONTRASTS BETWEEN TONES IN YOUR BLACK AND WHITE IMAGE

Using Photoshop does allow for creating a standout image especially utilising sharpening, high-pass or HDR filters to add contrast between your tones for added drama. These are greater for Landscapes and not always good for portraits or fashion work

You can use sharpening, high-pass or HDR filters to add contrast between your tones for added drama. These kinds of digital filters make the areas where light and dark tones meet even more contrasty — but without adjusting the contrast of the entire image. This kind of contrast can make your images pop without losing the detail in your mid-tones.

BLACK AND WHITE PLUGIN – STAND ALONE SILVER EFEX PRO

All of my images are edited and graded in Lightroom and then processed on an individual basis never batch processed in Photoshop and yes this can be daunting but you have full control over your own workflow and style.

If you are not great at the post-production or the digital darkroom then you can use various Monochrome plugins for photoshop or standalone software and my favourite is Silver Efex Pro

Silver Efex Pro is a free plug-in available from the Google Nik Collection. This easy-to-use program offers photographers the opportunity to mimic dark room treatments digitally. It’s another great plug-in you can use with Corel PaintShop Pro.

Silver Efex Pro allows the user to make adjustments to a wide variety of factors. The control panels are arranged similarly to Colour Efex Pro but with some slight differences. Silver Efex focuses solely on creating monochromatic and black and white images. On the left-hand side, users will find a variety of presets that include pinhole camera effects and simple modern black and white treatments.

CHOOSING A SUITABLE SUBJECT

Black and white images more than likely suit most subjects but its always better to think if the shoot you are planning really is all black and white or if you can select one or two images to convert to black and white. If you specialise in black and white then this will not be a problem, however, if you don’t then be selective as too much of one thing can be monotonous and use the sprinkle to enhance your book. Fashion Photography is a great user of monochrome images and the better the styling the stronger the look. Great portraits are often used in black and white and many great portrait photographers use monochrome to separate their subjects from background and stip away the interference of color. This

MONOCHROME – SHAPE & FORM

When you get rid of color from an image, you can no longer use it to provide emphasis or make a certain scene the center of attention. Removing color eliminates one of the more distracting aspects of a photograph. When looking for a great black and white shot, ignore the colors and set your sights on the shapes.

Where appropriate, arrange the objects in a way that brings out the most outstanding attribute of the different subjects. Patterns are particularly interesting because of their orderly repetition. You can see patterns in a wide range of everyday scenes including parking lots and rows of bushes.

PRACTICE, PRACTICE AND THEN PRACTICE

As a black and white photographer in fashion and portraiture, It’s always good to have your own style of photography and how you represent and present this to everyone. Learn to think in monochrome and although this sounds difficult it really isn’t. I will be talking and showing in online videos the full process of how to do this so pop over to YOUTUBE to keep updated by subscribing to my channel or register on this blog with your email and we will keep you posted.

BOOKS FOR FURTHER REFERENCE

PETER LINDBERGH
HERB RITTS
HELMUT NEWTON

November 5, 2019 0 comment

Photography Marketing Business

Photography Marketing Business

The Ultimate Portrait Photography Cheat Sheet: Essential Tips and Tricks

The Ultimate Portrait Photography Cheat Sheet: Essential Tips and Tricks

Guide to Fashion Photography – What is Fashion Photography?

Photography Marketing Ideas – How to Market your Business

Optimize website – zero in on target market

Use social media – Create a database of customers

Send email updates – Newsletters and updates

Team up with local businesses – Forge alliances

Fine-tune SEO – Perfect SEO Strategies

Encourage referrals – Use other vendors for reffereals and testimonials

Support charity – Help out others in a genuine way and get notices

1. Zero in on Your Target Market for Tailored Marketing Campaigns

2. Create a Customer Database for Effective Project Tracking

3. Maintain an Updated Portfolio Website to Display Your Craft

4. Utilize Blogging for SEO and Expert Positioning

5. Forge Alliances with Industry Vendors for Referrals

6. Utilize Social Media to Showcase Your Work

7. Offer Limited-Time Promotions or Packages

8. Network with Other Photographers

9. Leverage Email Marketing

10. Attend Industry Events and Workshops

11. Invest in Online Advertising

12. Encourage Client Reviews and Testimonials

13. Optimize for Mobile Users

15. Measure and Analyze Your Marketing Efforts

15 Essential Strategies for Successful Photography Marketing

Portrait Tips Every Photographer should know

TOP TIPS FOR DRAMATIC BLACK AND WHITE IMAGES

JAMES NADER – TIPS FOR GREAT BLACK AND WHITE IMAGES – MONOCHROME PORTRAIT TECHNIQUES

WATCH BLACK AND WHITE MOVIES – FILM

TRY EXPERIMENTING WITH FLAT LIGHT FIRST

SETTING THE RIGHT LIGHT IN YOUR SHOT FOR BLACK AND WHITE SHOOTING

CREATING CONTRAST

BLACK AND WHITE PHOTOGRAPHY – SHOOT IN RAW

UNDER EXPOSE OR OVER EXPOSE?

CONTRASTS BETWEEN TONES IN YOUR BLACK AND WHITE IMAGE

BLACK AND WHITE PLUGIN – STAND ALONE SILVER EFEX PRO

CHOOSING A SUITABLE SUBJECT

MONOCHROME – SHAPE & FORM

PRACTICE, PRACTICE AND THEN PRACTICE

BOOKS FOR FURTHER REFERENCE