Photography Tips 2: 2011

Friday 30 December 2011

Starting A Freelance Photography Business

Would you love the opportunity to make money from your photographs? Do you love to shoot just about anything on camera? Then freelance photography might be just the career for you, but how do you get into freelance photography?

Your freelance photography portfolio

The first thing you want to look at when considering freelance photography is your portfolio. Your portfolio should be a reflection of the area of photography that you particularly want to specialize in. It should contain a number of different pieces which give a good reflection of the type of work you are able to produce. If you want to do more general work then try to prepare a portfolio for each category of photographs that you are going to be taking.

How to find freelance photography work

Once you have prepared a good portfolio you will need to start looking for freelance positions. One of the easiest ways to do this is to go onto freelance jobs boards such as freelanceworkexchange.com, elance.com and guru.com and search for positions that are being offered on these boards.

If you are still looking for freelance work why not create a website advertising your services? If you are unable to do this yourself then ask for help from someone who knows what they are doing in this area. Once again, freelance jobs boards are a great place to find people to help you with your website.

You can also find freelance photography positions by contacting newspapers and magazines to find out whether they accept photography from freelancers and whether they have any freelance positions available. You can also advertise your services in local magazines and newspapers to get work from the community.

Writing your freelance photography contract

Once you have found freelance photography work the next thing you will need to do is form a contract with the people who have commissioned work from you. This contract should include the exact nature of the pictures to be taken as well as how many pictures they are wanting, when you plan to have these photographs done by as well as your costs and payment terms for these photographs.

If you are planning on going into freelance photography you should start by putting together a good portfolio of work, preferably specializing in a particular area. Once you have created a portfolio which is a good reflection of you work you will want to search on freelance jobs boards for freelance positions as well as advertising your services in and to magazines and newspapers and creating your own website. Once you have received a freelance position you will need to draw up a contract with your client which includes the details of the work that needs to be done as well as delivery dates and cost and payment terms. If you love shooting things with your camera then freelance photography can be a great job that will allow you to follow your passions.

Source: Free Articles

Wednesday 14 December 2011

Photography Tips to Solve the Photo Doldrums - Part 1

Is your camera gathering dust right now? Is it because you can't think of anything to take pictures of? Then you've caught the photo doldrums! What's the remedy? It's quite possibly something very simple - you need to start shooting the ideal photo subject.

" No other subject offers a... photographer such a range of possibilities for documentary and interpretive images, and few subjects are as easy to find." - Freeman Patterson, Photography of Natural Things

What is this ideal photo subject for overcoming the photo doldrums? Would you believe, water? But most photographers pass right by water when they seek something 'special' or 'different' to photograph. Why is that? In a word - familiarity. It acts as a mental blinder that prevents them from seeing excellent photo-ops that are right in front of them!

So, my very first photography tip for solving the photo doldrums is this: ask yourself just one simple question, "Which way to the water?" Now, here are some more photography tips to help you determine directions.

Photography Tips: Water's Warm Season Photo Op's

Is there a river, lake or ocean nearby? If so, you have what you need for the following photography tips to help you start getting over your photo doldrums:

#1 - Waves: Come in a wide variety of sizes, from ripples to tsunamis. Depending on the situation they can be shot either head-on or along their length as they curl and break. Fast shutter speeds will freeze the action. Slower speeds will create soft nebulous effects.

#2 - Waterscapes: when composing water-only or mostly-water pictures, you need to see the water within the viewfinder graphically - as just colors, tones, lines, shapes, etc. And you need to articulate the idea or mood that it evokes for you. Then you'll know which camera position, lens, etc is best for the final picture.

Whereas landscape photography usually calls for facing the camera either north or south (for sidelight modelling and polarizing effects), with waterscapes you can also shoot directly toward the sun and still get very attractive images, thanks to water's unique properties. Just remember to compensate your light meter's recommendations by +1 to +2 stops when doing so.

#3 - Waterfalls: allow for a wide variety of pictures. Slow shutter speeds makes the water silky smooth and soft looking. Fast shutter speeds not only freeze it but also reveal patterns in the ebb/surge and unusual shapes in it. Colors and patterns may be reflected from nearby surroundings and strong contrasts can be found between the water, boulders and stones, leaves and twigs, etc.

Self-Assignments For Above Photography Tips

Choose the projects that interest you most. Follow the photography tips conscientiously. Re-shoot when you aren't satisfied. Do it til you are satisfied. It'll take all your patience and passion. Your skills and eye will improve with the practice. Shoot especially in early and late light. Use a tripod as much as possible. Edit your results relentlessly. Pin small samples on the wall for a few days to study before making final prints for wall art.

Photography Tip #1 - Waves: First, study some online examples for pointers. Then shoot a single wave as it breaks, either head-on or else looking along it's length. Use shutter speed of 1/250 or higher to freeze action.

Photography Tip #2 - Waterscapes: Locate a nearby body of water. Go there. Study just the water for a while. Then compose a picture that includes only the water, perhaps a ripple pattern, or a section of varying colors, etc and include something in or on the water as a center of interest to place your principle focus.

Photography Tip #3 - Waterfalls: locate a nearby stream or river with a falls or a stretch of rapids. Find a section of water that includes a rock, etc and reflections of things on the shore or overhead, shoot with a slow shutter speed of 1/15 or lower.

In the next of this article set of 6 we'll cover still more photography tips about water's warm season photo ops for overcoming the photo doldrums: reflections, abstracts, splash 'n spray, foam 'n bubbles.

John Maxymuik is the author of "Photography Tips For The Photo Doldrums" - a set of 6 articles to break the grip of the photo doldrums.

To see examples of fine art photography that made use of the "ideal photo subject" go to my website at:

http://ambienceimages.net

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Maxymuik

Thursday 10 November 2011

How To Get The Best Results When Printing Your Own Digtal Photographs

The joy of using a digital camera and then having the ability to print out photos in the comfort of your own home is a great, empowering feeling. Usually, when you own a computer, the printer is a common accessory attached to it. This is all you need to be on your way to producing the images from your digital camera. When you are interested in printing out your own photos, you should take into consideration some of the techniques you can use to achieve the best results.

All printer companies produce their own line of ink and paper for their consumers to use. With most of the printing projects you deal with, any type of paper or ink is sufficient, but with photo printing, a different type of paper is required. This ensures that you will receive the best quality for your images, including brighter colors and a clearer appearance. If you mix different brands of paper, you will find that each one will give you varied results.

One of the options for choosing photo paper is one that claims to be of the unique archival variety, which is supposed to keep photos from fading over the years. But, once your digital image is saved to a file, you can always reprint; gaining the same original appearance as the first time you printed it out. All you have to do is find photo paper that is compatible with your inkjet printer.

There are many different kinds of finishes available for your photo paper. You may choose from a glossy to matte finish. When storing paper, make sure it is placed within a cool place that doesn't receive any direct sunlight. You will also find that paper designed for photographs costs more than regular copy paper. This means, try not to waste. When you want to use the majority of the paper, let your software guide you on the correct positioning. Speaking of waste, don't forget how expensive the printer ink is.

Make sure that when printing, you have chosen the "normal" print setting. Choosing higher options will not make a 300 dpi photo come out any better and sometimes it actually decreases the appearance. These options are really just a waste of ink.

Some users opt for the purchase of a printer that is only used for printing photographs. These options possess a different kind of technology, which are responsible for producing better quality photos. A disadvantage to using one of these printers is that the most common maximum print size is 4 x 6 inches.

But, for portability and added convenience, they are a joy for avid photographers. These types of printers also tend to create photos that last longer because they use a different method to apply the ink to paper. The long lasting finish is also made possible through a protective overcoat that isadded as a final layer.

Source: Free Articles

Thursday 3 November 2011

5 Easy To Follow Baby Photography Tips for Better Photos

Baby Photography Tips #1 - Make It Convenient To Capture Precious Moments

When it comes to baby photography, bear in mind that it best to keep your hand. Doing this creates an advantage for you to easily photograph precious moments of your baby.

This is because there will be times when your baby's position or posture, or probably something that he or she is doing could be one that is extraordinarily memorable and you want it captured and stored in the form of digital images.

When you're in the mood, you'll find yourself anticipating precious moments or lovely postures of your baby to take great photographs of.

Remember, make it convenient for yourself to photograph precious photos of your baby when the unpredictable yet precious moment comes!

Baby Photography Tips #2 - Are Your Images Personal Enough?

A great tip you can implement is to make use of items that are memorable and precious to you by using them as background subjects. Use the things that bring meaning to you and plentiful precious memories as inspirations.

Baby Photography Tips #3 - Keep The Background Simple

Another important photography tip that works extremely well is to use simple backgrounds for portrait shots. The simpler it is, the better your shots.

Maintaining simple backgrounds allow your photography subject to be kept in focus, away from distractions in the background.

Baby Photography Tips #4 - Using Natural Light Is Best

Making use of natural light for baby photo shoots are definitely more flattering as compared to using a camera's flash.

If you are conducting your baby photography attempt indoors, make sure to use soft directional light.

However, if you are photographing outdoor, it is best that you conduct your photo shoot during the early morning or early in the evening. Refrain photographing while the sun is high up and when light is harsh. This creates shadows, and also isn't flattering.

Baby Photography Tips #5 - You Have Got To Be In The Pictures Too!

Like it or not, it is true that when your child grows up, he or she will be very interested as to how you and the rest of your family members look like way back then. Therefore, take as many pictures of your baby and family members as you possibly can. Your child will thank you

ATTENTION: If you are serious and want to improve your photography skills to become a better photographer, then you must see this Baby Photography Tips! These photography tips are clear cut and straight to the point.

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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michelle_Lee_Fui_Jinn

Friday 14 October 2011

Fashion Photography Tips For Success

We see them all over the place; in television advertisements, in magazines, and on the runway. They are the beautiful men and women who strut their stuff while showing off the latest styles from the hottest fashion designers. These are the fashion models of today and tomorrow, and the subject of high fashion photography. It is through photography that these models and fashionable clothing are brought to the public. Therefore, these photographs must be taken with a certain level of precision and a special attention to color, style, and lighting composition. Learning a few key fashion photography tips will help to make this possible.

High fashion photographers such as Mario Testino and Eva Mueller may not be as famous as the models they shoot, but they are actually sought out more than their model counterparts by fashion magazines and designers. While the dream of huge paychecks and hobnobbing with the rich and famous might appeal to the aspiring fashion photographer, it is not easy to become successful in fashion and model photography. For every one talented young photographer who makes it big, there are hundreds are left dreaming about the moment their photo will be chosen.

Here are a few fashion photography tips for anyone interested in getting started in the field of fashion photography. The first thing you must do is study your subject. As with any field, you can never learn enough. Read as many fashion magazines you can possibly get your hands on. There are a number of fantastic books on the subjects of fashion and model photography available. They can be purchased cheaply online at sites like Amazon.com or even cheaper if you get them used on eBay. You will also need a good camera, a tripod, and a lighting system. One of the more often overlooked fashion photography tips, is to ensure that you always have plenty of film and extra batteries available.

One of the most important fashion photography tips to focus on is having a portfolio. You need to start assembling a portfolio of your work and you need to keep this portfolio handy at all times. You never know when you will have the opportunity to show your work off to someone in the fashion world. Sharp, vibrant images on a 4 x 5" transparency will best show off your work, so focus on them when putting your fashion photography portfolio together. If any of your work has already been published regardless of whether it was a local magazine, newspaper or contest, add a tear sheet (literally a sheet you torn out of the magazine) is a great addition to a portfolio. You should have a minimum of 20 photographs in your portfolio and showcasing different styles.

In this day of the internet, it is wise to display your fashion photography talent online as well. Setup a simple website displaying your work and submit your digital photos to online contests. Also, submit them to online fashion gallery websites. This will help tremendously with getting your work seen and showcasing your talent around the world. Probably the most important of all the fashion photography tips is to get your photographs seen by as many people as possible. There is no better way of doing this than by putting them online.

Remember that most fashion magazine editors are looking for your personality in the photographs that you take. Each fashion photographer will captures the essence of a fashion design and model differently. Most importantly, if this is your dream, do not give up, ever! Keep learning the latest high fashion photography tips and keep working to get your photographs on the cover of my next hot fashion magazine.

Charlotte Plante is an avid photographer who runs a successful photography website dedicated to the fields of fashion photography [http://digitalphotographyarticles.com/fashion-photography/index.php], wedding photography, and more. For great digital photography tips, discount offers, and more, visit Charlotte's website at [http://digitalphotographyarticles.com]

Online Digital Photography Course

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Charlotte_Plante

Friday 7 October 2011

How to Find the Best Digital Cameras

The high tech digital world of today has brought us millions of fascinating gadgets that can help make our daily lives easier and more livable. From simple items like the compact disc or the DVD to more complex products like digital cell phones and laptops, products bursting with the latest in technology surround us wherever we go. For those of us who enjoy photography, however, some of the absolute best inventions of the digital age have got to be digital cameras. With their humble beginnings, digital cameras have blossomed into an amazing product, so incredible in fact that just about anyone who enjoys taking pictures already has at least one of the hundreds of digital cameras now available. However, with so much diversity in the world of digital cameras, it can be a difficult task to figure out which one is right for you.

To figure out which digital cameras are right for you, you have to figure out a few criteria first. To begin with, you have to decide what your price range for digital cameras is. Amazingly enough, you can purchase a digital camera for less than a hundred bucks or for more than thirty thousand, the choice is up to you. Also, you should decide how many megapixels you want in a digital camera. More megapixels will allow you to take larger, clearer pictures, but the camera itself will cost a few hundred dollars more than a comparable camera with less megapixels. Finally, you need to figure out what other features you want your possible digital cameras to have. Important things to consider include whether or not your camera can take short movies, how long the battery lasts and what type of lens the camera uses.

If you are highly passionate about photography, you really need to consider one of the prosumer digital cameras or a digital SLR (DSLR). DSLRs are highly similar to their film based cousins except they are fully digital. This means that these types of digital cameras require you to look through the viewfinder instead of at the screen when you take your pictures. However, you can always change lenses and check the pictures after you have taken them, making it a highly versatile camera. On the other hand, prosumer digital cameras offer much of the same quality as a DSLR, except you are able to sight your picture through the LCD screen. Unfortunately, prosumer digital cameras do not allow you to switch out your lens.

Aside from photography lovers, the majority of the population should stick with compact and subcompact digital cameras. These cameras offer a great image quality in a body size that is usually no larger than a pack of cigarettes. Great for carrying around with you on your travels, compact cameras can certainly be taken anywhere you go, as they can easily slip into a pocket on even your tightest jeans. One drawback of these small digital cameras, however, is that they lack many of the functions and settings of the prosumer and DSLR varieties.

Source: Free Articles

Wednesday 3 August 2011

How To Make Money With Photography

There are many ways to make money online with photography, but a popular and fairly new way is through Micro Stock Photography websites.

Micro stock photography is simply stock photography that's sold at deep discounts. Clients are able to license stock photos for just $1 or $2, and photographers earn money each time a client chooses one of their photos.

Micro stock photography is considered to be still in it's infancy, and some people feel it's wrong to sell photography at such low prices. Particularly since many professional photographers invest a lot of time and money on equipment, learning, and photo shoots.

For the beginning photographer though, micro stock agencies can be ideal places to start. Since entry requirements are not overly restrictive, many hobby photographers with inexpensive cameras have already started making a nice second income from their pictures.

How Does It Work?
The process of making money from your photography through micro stock agencies is fairly simple.

1. Research popular micro stock photography agencies online. There are quite a few of them, but you'll want to start with just one or two until you get the hang of things.

2. Choose your absolute best pictures to submit. Some agencies require you to submit 10 pictures for review when you apply for an account with them, while others only require three the first time. Most don't have minimum requirements though, and you can start by submitting just one.

3. Your pictures will be reviewed by humans, and accepted or rejected into the micro stock site. If they're accepted, they'll be available for clients to "buy".

Technically they're not fully buying your pictures though. They're simply licensing the pictures for specific use. Usually micro stock photography is used in websites, though sometimes it's used in advertisements, brochures and other marketing materials. The photographer always retains full copyrights to their photos though, and is normally able to sell the same photos over and over again to additional clients.

And this is the beauty of stock photography. Once you've taken a great picture and had it accepted into a stock photography portfolio, that one picture can continue earning you money month after month... sometimes year after year.

Most micro stock agencies pay $0.20 - $0.50 per picture license, or download. This may not seem like much, however a good photographer with several hundred pictures for sale could make a nice second income over time, because it all adds up!

There's a lot more to the stock photography business, which we don't have room to cover in just one article. You'll find expanded details about making money with stock photography in the article noted below though.

Source: Free Articles

Photography Tips 2

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Friday 30 December 2011

Starting A Freelance Photography Business

Other Interesting Articles

Wednesday 14 December 2011

Photography Tips to Solve the Photo Doldrums - Part 1

Thursday 10 November 2011

How To Get The Best Results When Printing Your Own Digtal Photographs

Other Interesting Articles

Thursday 3 November 2011

5 Easy To Follow Baby Photography Tips for Better Photos

Friday 14 October 2011

Fashion Photography Tips For Success

Friday 7 October 2011

How to Find the Best Digital Cameras

Other Interesting Articles

Wednesday 3 August 2011

How To Make Money With Photography

Other Interesting Articles

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