Last week, Tony and Chelsea Northrup posted a controversial video on YouTube that tried to define what a professional camera was. It centers around sales for all of the camera manufacturers. It makes some good points about how higher-end cameras can enhance a photograph. That being said, for the most part making a great photograph is not about the camera — it's about the photographer. While there are certainly cameras geared more towards professionals, including features that pros tend to take more advantage of, it doesn't mean that you … [Read more...] about What does a “professional” camera really mean?
professional
4 Reasons Why You Should Consider Getting An Office Out From Your Home
When we are at the beginning of our photographer career, we try to spend as little as possible on everything that doesn't seem necessary. By "necessary" of course, we mean our photography gear, camera body, lenses, bag, tripod, laptop. We don't necessarily think that renting an office is part of those basics expenses. Well, after reading this post, you might think about it twice! I have to admit it, I was more than a little scared when I signed my first lease contract a few months ago. I was barely out of school. I had no regular income. I … [Read more...] about 4 Reasons Why You Should Consider Getting An Office Out From Your Home
Lightroom Live: Adobe Portfolio, Part Deux with Al Rossin
You gotta join us live for our next Lightroom Live, totally free of charge. Not only will you learn terrific techniques, but if you tune in live, you can be entered to win excellent prizes to help you in your work. (Note: MUST BE TUNED IN LIVE TO WIN). We'll be giving away a copy of Perfectly Clear from Athentech. Plus you never know what else. We kick off Monday, June 12th at 1:00 pm Eastern, 12:00 pm Central, 11:00 am Mountain, and 10:00 am Pacific. 2 pm in the Virgin Islands. Check out the YouTube event here and it'll show your … [Read more...] about Lightroom Live: Adobe Portfolio, Part Deux with Al Rossin
Photography Marketing: Regularly Prompting Your Clients
Once we have acquired a few regular clients, it's common to "expect" them to reach out to us when they need photography services. But by relying on the client to contact us, instead of us prompting them, we may lose the opportunity to serve them in different and unique ways. For instance, I work with several local companies shooting different events throughout the year. And every once in a while I'm asked about things like headshots, team photos, board member photographs--the list goes on. When it comes to prompting clients, there are a … [Read more...] about Photography Marketing: Regularly Prompting Your Clients
Lightroom Live: Adobe Portfolio, Part Deux with Al Rossin
You gotta join us live for our next Lightroom Live, totally free of charge. Not only will you learn terrific techniques, but if you tune in live, you can be entered to win excellent prizes to help you in your work. (Note: MUST BE TUNED IN LIVE TO WIN). We'll be giving away a copy of Perfectly Clear from Athentech. Plus you never know what else. We kick off Monday, June 12th at 1:00 pm Eastern, 12:00 pm Central, 11:00 am Mountain, and 10:00 am Pacific. 2 pm in the Virgin Islands. Check out the YouTube event here and it'll show your … [Read more...] about Lightroom Live: Adobe Portfolio, Part Deux with Al Rossin
Photography Marketing: Studio Management and CRM Tools are Key to Success
As photographers, we're responsible for a lot of things beyond just showing up and photographing. There's editing, setting up meetings, bookkeeping, scheduling our time...the list is endless. Needless to say, it was long overdue earlier this year when I finally decided to investigate studio management and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. What is a CRM? Simply put, a CRM is an application that allows you to keep track of all your clients' information. You can create contacts, companies, notes and record deals. For photography, … [Read more...] about Photography Marketing: Studio Management and CRM Tools are Key to Success
Photography Marketing: Create a Customizable, Service-Driven Gallery with Patron
Earlier this year, I wrote about the probable demise of Flickr. While it's still with us, I was recently introduced to a new, unique gallery solution that will be another great alternative to the aging service. And better yet, it helps to bridge the gap between other photography professionals and potential clients. Patron Gallery, currently in an invite-only testing phase, is a new, free online gallery platform. Several of its features you've seen elsewhere — the ability to upload and showcase your work, interact and follow other … [Read more...] about Photography Marketing: Create a Customizable, Service-Driven Gallery with Patron
First Impressions and Hands-On with Lumix GH5
Lumix's new GH5 is the most talked-about new camera this season, and for good reason. It's a complete redesign of the popular GH4 and it offers loads of new features. Since I'm an ambassador for Lumix, I've had some time with a pre-production unit and I'd like to share with you some first impressions. Now, I'm an ambassador but not an employee of Lumix. They are not paying for this article, and I am not representing their views in any way. I'll tell you my honest impressions. (Spoilers: it's awesome). Excellent for Photographers and … [Read more...] about First Impressions and Hands-On with Lumix GH5
Book Review: The Moment It Clicks, by Joe McNally (Must Read)
The Moment It Clicks is not a new book, but I just read it again for the third time and realized that some of you may not have read it yet. And we need to fix that. This book is ideal for photographers of all skill levels. It teaches the beginner, inspires the amateur and reminisces with the seasoned pro. Every turn of the page is filled with a large photograph from McNally's career and is accompanied by a story and tips for making that kind of picture happen. You won't find too many camera settings, but you will find principles that will … [Read more...] about Book Review: The Moment It Clicks, by Joe McNally (Must Read)
Do’s and Don’ts to Build a Great Portfolio
For photographers, a great portfolio shows your work at its best. If you're a professional, it'll get you hired, and if you're a hobbyist, it'll let you share with more people. Either way, you need to know a few things about creating a portfolio people will enjoy viewing and a few things that will keep people from advancing to the next picture. A Few Don'ts Let's start with a few things that you should avoid doing. 1. Don't Show Others' Work I thought this goes without saying, but again and again I have friends who's work has been stolen … [Read more...] about Do’s and Don’ts to Build a Great Portfolio
Got A New Camera? Get Luminar Pluto, Too
Luminar, by Macphun, is a photo finishing tool for Mac computers, and I'm really impressed. It's simple and intuitive to use. I think if you're a new photographer that this is probably the best photo software for you. As a new photographer, it's important to remember that software doesn't make your pictures better, it can only put the finishing touches on them. Practicing composition and mastering all your camera's controls and their effects will make your pictures better, and then Luminar will help you refine your pictures so they convey the … [Read more...] about Got A New Camera? Get Luminar Pluto, Too
New Canon 5D Mark IV: Canon Announces New Features
Canon has announced the new 5D Mark IV, and it's got some terrific new features. Let's first take a look at the official launch video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Z9089048wk What New Gear Was Announced Here's a list of all the new gear that was announced (it's already on sale too). Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera (Body Only) Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera with 24-105mm f/4L II Lens Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera with 24-70mm f/4L Lens Canon BG-E20 Battery Grip for EOS 5D Mark IV Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM … [Read more...] about New Canon 5D Mark IV: Canon Announces New Features
Using 2 Cameras? Make It Easy: Sync the Time
It is a tragedy to not make a picture because you don't want to deal with post production. Yet, many photographers have exactly this feeling--that photography has become a burden. Here's an idea to help make using two or more cameras less burdensome. Why Two Cameras? Just the other day I had a shoot that would take a full 9 hours, but I wasn’t sure that was enough time, so I was seeking ways to save time and maximize my efficiency. One thing I know about myself is that if I have to change a lens to make a wide angle picture or a telephoto, … [Read more...] about Using 2 Cameras? Make It Easy: Sync the Time
How I Got the Shot
I'm often asked... "How I got the shot?" I answered the phone. Nothing frustrates me more than when I ask someone "Why didn't you call back?", and the response is "My battery was dead" or "I left my phone in the car". My next comment is "If you were the captain of the plane, we'd all be dead!" My point is this, you might be a great photographer, but if you don't have professional phone skills, the odds are not in your favor. Good Etiquette When I get called to shoot on a TV show or movie and I can't answer the phone because I'm shooting, or … [Read more...] about How I Got the Shot
There’s Only One Prerequisite to Be a Photographer
I feel so fortunate. I get to travel all over and meet thousands of photographers each year. Each of them is different with a unique view of the world, and it's a privilege to be inspired and shoot with them. Some of the people I meet are full timers, like me, and some make a portion of their income with photography, while the majority are hobbyists. I hope they are all amateurs, because that's all that's required to be successful in photography. Amateur means they love making pictures so much that they spend all the time and money they can … [Read more...] about There’s Only One Prerequisite to Be a Photographer
Professional Photography Rant
OK. This is my first and as far as I am concerned, only rant. The genesis for this rant began in 1888 with the introduction by George Eastman of a disruptive technologyblack and white roll film. Not only did he provide roll film holders for practically every plate camera in existence at the time; he also introduced the box camera. The Kodak Box Camera a.k.a. Brownie was promoted with the words: You press the button, we do the rest. The camera cost $25.00. It came preloaded with enough film for one hundred exposures. When the last picture was … [Read more...] about Professional Photography Rant
Age Doesn’t Matter
This is an opinion piece that's directed to all ages. Stop looking at your driver's license or a calendar. Rather start looking to each other to learn and grow. Age is Just a Number I have seen myself go from being an upstart kid to a balding professional. But I have learned this... age is just a number. I have worked with wonderfully talented kids throughout my career. I have also chosen to surround myself with those who are more experienced than me. Both parties have added to my understanding of this medium and its creative … [Read more...] about Age Doesn’t Matter
How to Become a Professional Photographer – Guest Post
Guest posts, don't we all love them? Think of how refreshing it is to hear a new voice from the crowd! This is one of the ways that photographers can give back something inspirational, educational, or otherwise neat or fun. In her spare time she enjoys DIY projects, playing guitar and mandolin, obsessing over Apple products, and driving her Mini Cooper. She's an awesome and fun goofball and I've found that she gets addicted to starting and voting for photos on some websites. … [Read more...] about How to Become a Professional Photographer – Guest Post
Professional Color with Lightroom’s Camera Calibration
I started photography by shooting film in high school just before the turn of the century, and I don't miss film one bit. Its so wonderful to see a photograph on the back of the camera and see how the composition and the highlights are working, and then make changes. I don't know what I learned in school, but I learned it all again the first day I shot with a DSLR by looking at the LCD and making a change and trying again. Its powerful, but if you shoot RAW it may be frustrating, too. The camera shows a JPEG preview, and that just doesn't often … [Read more...] about Professional Color with Lightroom’s Camera Calibration
Are You Losing Photography Clients?
Recently at Adobe MAX, I was speaking to some other professionals. They wanted to know what they could due to attract more clients and retain existing ones. I shared a simple piece of wisdom I try to teach to all of my employees and partners. When given a choice, people will work with those they like and respect. I know... not that deep and profound on the surface... but let's break it down a bit. Choice. Ultimately, our clients choose us. Sure, you can fire a client... but no matter how much you want to work with someone, it's ultimately … [Read more...] about Are You Losing Photography Clients?
Camera Bags: A Rant of Frustration from a Woman’s Perspective
I'm a woman, and I like purses and bags. I am also a photographer, and so with that I tend to collect lots of cool bags. Yay, bags! I have more than I will use, some come and go with my photography style or locations I travel to, and some have stuck around and have been used for a very long time. Yet I am always on the hunt for a bag that fits my needs in many different ways. The are so many different types of camera bags: backpacks, purses, messenger bags, sling bags, and more. For the purposes of this article, I am lumping all bags into one … [Read more...] about Camera Bags: A Rant of Frustration from a Woman’s Perspective
Work Life Balance & Professional Photography
I am probably the last person who should write about this. I have proven to suck at it. But I am writing this post because I at least recognize the problem and maybe I can get someone else to think about it before it's too late for them. I have spent decades working 80 hours a week. I spent decades not even taking Christmas off. I didn't do it because I wanted money (although that never hurts) I did it because I have always felt the need to make the most of every hour productivity wise. I am not good at resting or relaxing. It takes me weeks … [Read more...] about Work Life Balance & Professional Photography
Don’t Become A Professional Photographer If Your Motivation Is Money
Leave it to me to want a job that is not only stressful - but also doesn't pay well. That's what CNNMoney says about commercial photography. While I don't know what CNN consider's "commercial" photography, I do know that the median pay of $43,600 seems high compared to surveys I've seen by Kodak for the entire industry. In any event, the point is that if you're interested in becoming a professional photographer, don't do it for the money. There are of course exceptions to this rule. I've done quite a bit better than $43,600 a year thank you - … [Read more...] about Don’t Become A Professional Photographer If Your Motivation Is Money
Photofocus Podcast May 25 Edition
NOTE NOTE NOTE NOTE NOTE: The Photofocus Podcast Feed HAS CHANGED! Here is the new feed: feed://feeds.feedburner.com/photofocuspodcast PLEASE BE PATIENT - OUR SERVERS SEE LARGE LOADS ON PUBLISHING DAYS. THE DOWNLOADS MAY GO SLOWLY BUT THEY WILL FINISH. Download episode here... Sorry we're no longer providing show notes. __________________________ … [Read more...] about Photofocus Podcast May 25 Edition
Macro Photography – Guest Post by Robert O’Toole
Guest post by My Honey bee hovering over a Calandrinia flower. The 180mm macro's small angle of view makes it my favorite lens for clean smooth backgrounds. Nikon D800E, Sigma 180mm f/3.5 EX APO Macro HSM lens, single Nikon SB-R200 flash with diffuser 1:8 power, handheld, Manual mode 1/250th sec, f8, ISO 500. Geranium flower close up. Tech details same as above. Daisy full frame close up. Focus was critical since depth of field at this magnification ratio is paper thin. Tech details same as above except for f5.6 and ISO 100. Daisy … [Read more...] about Macro Photography – Guest Post by Robert O’Toole
My Opinion On What Constitutes A Professional Photographer
According to the dictionary, a professional is: "A person who belongs to one of the professions, esp. one of the learned professions." "A person who earns a living in a sport or other occupation frequently engaged in by amateurs: a golf professional." "A person who is expert at his or her work: You can tell by her comments that this editor is a real professional. " It's the last definition that most closely fits for me. Being an "expert" or at least an ASPIRING expert, makes you professional. Most of this conversation won't center around the … [Read more...] about My Opinion On What Constitutes A Professional Photographer
Content Aware Crop in Photoshop
Guest Post by Rich Harrington shows you how to use content-aware cropping in Photoshop. DISCLAIMER: This post isn't intended to be definitive - we're not claiming this is the ONLY way or even the BEST way to accomplish this task in Photoshop, Aperture, iPhoto or any other post-prodcessing program. We're merely offering it as A way you might accomplish this task. These tips are free, offered only because they might be helpful to someone. __________________________________ … [Read more...] about Content Aware Crop in Photoshop
Run Your Photo Business (or take pictures) Like Steve Jobs Ran Apple
Since Apple has more cash on hand than most countries, I figure they might not be a bad company to use as a model. While this is very simplified, it shows you the path that you might want to consider if you want the kind of success Mr. Jobs enjoyed at Apple. I've distilled the following ideas from a series of articles I read about Mr. Jobs and then converted them to something that should be relevant to most professional photographers. 1. Try to look at your business as a way to solve other people's problems not just a place that sells 8x10" … [Read more...] about Run Your Photo Business (or take pictures) Like Steve Jobs Ran Apple
Are You More Interested In The D800 or 5DMKIII?
____________________ … [Read more...] about Are You More Interested In The D800 or 5DMKIII?
How To Use The Synchronize Command in Adobe Camera RAW
Guest Post by Rich Harrington shows you how to use the Synchronize command in ACR. DISCLAIMER: This post isn't intended to be definitive - we're not claiming this is the ONLY way or even the BEST way to accomplish this task in Photoshop, Aperture, iPhoto or any other post-prodcessing program. We're merely offering it as A way you might accomplish this task. These tips are free, offered only because they might be helpful to someone. ____________________ … [Read more...] about How To Use The Synchronize Command in Adobe Camera RAW
