Thursday, May 1, 2014

Create the Edge by Taking Product Shots with Monochrome Background


One must realize that when consumers see products splashed in print ads or on online portals, they cannot touch, feel, or taste them. It is the photograph, which has to communicate all of the above in the most convincing way.
If the photography makes the product look desirable, then it will certainly translate into a sale. Several tips and tricks can truly enhance the look and feel, as well as the production value of the picture of any item that needs to be sold online. The main point of focus is the subject, i.e. the product that will be purchased via the advertisement. First, make sure to have the subject meticulously cleaned and neat in appearance. For example if it is a cell phone, it cannot have fingerprints or scratches. A dress cannot have creases and folds. Cleaning is mandatory as under the lights dirt tends to gleam and dust sparkle.
The right background also makes a vast difference to make the visual more convincing. It is quite important to make seamless backdrop for the product to shine. When a full scene is created with a monochrome color the effect is total. There is no distraction to the main theme. In fact, many items are shot with this kind of backdrop to encourage sales. Today, the right shade of single color gives an edge to the vendor. It forms a brand identity for the product. The greatest example is the iconic Apple iPhone that is shot against the smooth and silk white, transparent background. All over the world it is admired and has sold billions of devices. This is definitely the work of a experienced product photographer. He knows how to create the edge by taking product shots with the monochrome background.
For close-ups shots of drinks, food, jewelry also the right background makes all the difference. A narrow depth of field works well for product shots as it provides emphasis on the subject. With the combination of the backdrop and the field depth, the shots can be taken. Blocking a continuous background for easy execution is popular among retailers. Preferably, a solid white or neutral grey works well. It is a simple implementation and the result looks professional and classy. If one is not working out of a professional photo studio with backgrounds draped from trusses, then a few rolls of craft paper, a couple of stands and some metal clamps will do the trick.
Backgrounds are the cornerstone of studio photography. There are several kind of craft papers that are also used to provide texture of matt, sheen or gloss. The setting allows the photographer to use several techniques and angles to capture the items digitally. Taking good and neat product shots is very important to advertisers and clients. For photographers to bag lucrative commercial photography jobs, it is important to be able to nail this aspect.

For the great sales, often a quick alteration of backdrop makes the difference. For instance shooting dresses of different sizes with monochrome backgrounds allows buyers to see clearly the color and choose according to their size or wallet. This is a very vital aspect that a canvas can permit the buyer to make the right choice. Nothing can go wrong with an online sale with such meticulous planning. 

Friday, April 4, 2014

Structural Anatomy of Professional Photography Studios

A photo studio is a space wherein professional photo shoots take place. Most are equipped with backdrops, professional shooting lights, grips and mounts.

A studio may have more than one shooting space. Based on requirement the photographer can choose a space and the client’s art director can decide the creative approach for the shoot. The photos need to mainly carry his camera and lens kit on the day of shoot, unless he is hiring that as well. Some studios have experienced in-house photographers. A typical photography shooting space consists of an expansive room with white bare walls. Ideally, the floor should be concrete and painted with industrial grade white paint. As most of the equipment is electrical, carpets and rugs are avoided in the floor space. Some studios are just warehouses. In there, fabric or acrylic backdrops are set up. The studio should not have a problem of outside lights slithering inside through windows, doors or crevices. This can affect lighting conditions severely and spoil the output.
Three umbrella lights or soft boxes can easily fit into a professional studio space. This is the average requirement light source, which create the continuous lighting ‘temperature’ for product shoots. You can adjust height of the lamp, tilt and swivel the light stands accordingly to your shot. Flash or strobe lights are activated with the remote. You can synchronize this with the shots with the configuration of the shutter button. This is all due to the IR sensor and the connectivity with wireless strobes. There are ring flashes available too which can put around the lens.
Studios will also be equipped with lots of extra lights, batteries, light tents, light stands, tripods, ladders, fans, extension chords and plug points for your use. There are also sturdy trusses (metal frames) in studios to suspend lights from above as well. Depending on the scale of the studio the number and the size will differ.
A stage area or raised platform may also exist in some shoot floors. Others will have acrylic or fabric backdrop suspended from trusses above and which can roll down and spread out across the floor. Studios may or may not supply reflectors, cutters, gel papers, butter papers, thermocol sheets, white balance card etc. These will also be charged in the total studio package.
It is always necessary for the client to visit the studio for race or do a virtual tour before the actual shoot. If he already works for the studio or owns it, then things are a lot easier. A good working environment is very important to deliver quality output. There can be no compromise with regard to the ambience, the facilities and the equipment at hand. To pull off a successful photo shoot studio conveniences are essential. It is important to have all the best resources to complement one’s talent. A proper studio with a professional set up and assistant / attendants can add a lot of production value.

In addition, apart from studio spaces, there are also photography firms that call themselves photography studios. This is another word for a photography agency as well. Therefore, while booking a studio shoot floor one must be sure of what one is booking.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

Why Tailor Made Professional Photography is Worth the Expense?

Flexibility of digital pictures has prompted everyone to indulge in heavy equipment. Since only few make the grade, only custom made artworks are proving to be valuable.

In such a scenario is tailor made professional photography worth the expense for commercial or individual purposes? The fact that today a person taking photographs can manipulate the pixels and create designs is the driving force of the job. Professional photography is the answer why those pictures for online shopping carts look so stunning. If you are planning to launch your own online store, bypassing the digital image-taking world...is professional hara-kiri! All customized photos are costly but not just without a cause. The amount of hard work and technical equipment employed justify the pocket burning price tags.

The digital revolution has empowered the professionals to bring out masterpieces. The stunning quality of the product shots is often the result of image taking with awareness and post production technical support. New technologies are brought in to supplement the traditional challenges. While keeping a strong foot in originality of the art, professionals are resorting to latest techniques. They are able to fully control various factors during image taking process. The rest is taken care during the image editing according to the demands of the industry. With so much elasticity comes a cost.

Good quality digital camera equipment and accessories are heavy-duty investment. It is no secret that setting up a well-equipped studio with proper lighting arrangement, props and other technical support is costly. Professionals can be hired on hour basis or for a day or more. Good product shot need hours of experimentation and often several shots have to taken and edited before choosing the perfect one. A photographer may spend hours before he gets a hint of the client’s idea of perfection and the way he wants to portray his stuff online. A potential online buyer is likely to get hooked to the product’s attractive picture. It is different story for every product. The customized photos break new grounds each time so that there is no boredom even when the catalog is added with hundreds of pictures at a time.

The high cost associated with professional photography is associated with expensive equipment, their maintenance, the creative efforts, the studio setting, post production work and amount of valuable time and effort spent on each shot. More it if often teamwork, a photographer needs assistance of art directors and professionals who would help getting the right props and their arrangement. Along with all these factors there are several other constant expenses for running a professional photography business. Unless it is hobby or a part time engagement, one has to earn the cost of maintain the cameras, get good quality lenses and improve on the technical assistance on a regular basis. A single good quality lens may cost $900 to $2500. So now you know the bigger portion of hefty bill goes into the making and maintenance of a system which in inevitable for good quality product shots.

On parting note, isn't it worthy of spending on professional images considering the kind of fortune they bring for all online business? And they are worth the expense in the bargain.

Sunday, August 4, 2013

Jewellery Photography Needs a Vision of Perfection

The important keys to wholesome jewellery photography are keenness, lighting and sparkle. And of course with perfection vision the mission can be accomplished well!




Reputable jewellery photography needs sharp and concise focus to achieve the finest effects. Accurate high-resolution cameras like Nikon and Cannon Digital Rebel with 100 mm macro lens will look at a wide area of jewellery that needs to be photographed and position it accurately. This is known as "spot focus" mode that allows precisely what the camera will be focusing on.  Sometimes many digital cameras cannot capture the small shiny gemstones.  For close-up, a camera with good manual focus ability is needed.


Soft Lighting effects work best for jewellery photography.  When a series of lighting is used the final image can be visualized. On-camera flash does not always lead to good photos. Occasionally the camera’s flash will be too bright at a close distance when taking pictures and will not light up the jewellery properly. They may also create harsh and distracting shadows, which are harmful when showing to the customers.


Fluorescent bulbs that are well compressed provide pleasant, natural-colour light and produce very little heat serving as an advantage during long photo sessions. A light white satin tent as a diffuser is used that makes it easy to reduce glares and control shadows for jewellery photography.  He will decide on what lights he wants when he is shooting jewellery items like gems, sapphires, rubies and how to add sparkle to diamonds.  The bulbs can be ‘daylight’ or ‘sepia toned’.


LED bulbs are considered as a diamond sparkler producing sharp quality images of the jewels. Camera must preferably be kept on spot mode where the close up photos of diamond, emerald or intricate stones are targeted.  While the photographer is shooting, the lens or the hand movement can get unsteady at times.  A tripod is absolutely essential to use as support enabling sharp images to be clicked effortlessly.


A professional photographer has to portray every precious diamond’s unique sparkle intricately in its metalwork.  Each piece of jewellery is patterned differently concerning its design, shape, finish and its opacity. The use of controlled lights will give brilliance to a particular piece of jewellery.  Implicit focus to capture the detail is very important.  Eventually the professional’s skill to regulate the components ensures that the mission is accomplished with patience.


The age of computers has enormously helped jewellery photography.  Many clients can browse online, choose and decide which jewellery they would like to adorn and purchase the same.  The shutterbug is also an expert at color balancing, converting white gold to yellow gold, changing the color of gemstones and can provide extensive retouching to make sure the products appear in their best light.  The photograph of the product will display the finesse; sparkle and design when different lights source bulb colors are blended during the shoot.  Preferably use 5000K daylight-balanced bulbs to produce a proper image.  Be sure that the entire lights match in color as the exact exposure brings out the best results.


Sunday, July 28, 2013

Product Shot UK Unites Exceptional Skill with State of the Art Facilities



If you have been ruing a missed opportunity in selling some product online and it had something to do with bad pictures then you must know that in this digital era there can be no imperfect shots.  

If you look at any images of products being advertised in magazines, glossies or online then the credit goes to the shooters who have done a fabulous job. It is not just about doing a good shot but more than that. Just a captured shot is not the only reason why a product shot is accepted or declined. Well today a large amount of items are sold online and the way they are displayed matter. Consumers may be in any location but they have the convenience of placing an order and getting a home delivery. Now if a shot of an item is lit very poorly or is grainy in texture it is not going to attract any potential customers. Naturally one needs a good and talented person to do the work. For example, a state of the art facility in product shot UK brings with it exceptional skills. It holds ground while the professional is able to communicate the client’s message via the visual or illustration with minimal effects.

When seeking the services of a local company like product shot UK the criterion depends on the e-commerce needs. The images that are taken need to compliment the products. Not only this if is a company able to provide extended services it can be the ideal studio where the work can be done. The whole idea is to bring the items to life and let the visual speak to the potential buyer. A studio will have provision for diverse shooting styles:

1.       It will have qualified camera men who know how to operate the latest digital cameras and adjust lends according to the items and the concept

2.       Hi-definition cameras for tiny objects will be available so that the quality of the product is magnified.

3.       Whether it is a pack shot or a single item the lighting is customized.

4.       There are plenty of background choices to shoot only products with or without the models.

5.       A large studio will offer shooting for family photos, commercial shots, corporate brands, e-commerce images, glamour shoots, image shots for brochures and catalogs.

6.       Website presents to track the project/urgent jobs.

All studios that offer these services are not same and offer various prices. Again this depends on the level of work to be done. If the client needs to do image editing also a few large studios have the necessary provision for it. Local clients can bring in their products and those overseas can courier the material. There is also facility to upload bulk pictures in case the shots have been taken and they only need editing.

Today everyone prefers to work in a friendly atmosphere and needs efficient handling even if the work comes urgently. It is now high time those wishing to expect good sales invest in the product photography studio that can take care of even payments on a quarterly basis. And next time you need clear-cut images then don’t depend on your friendly neighbor who has the world’s most expensive camera but opt for some professionals. They are equally friendly and are better shots!

Sunday, July 7, 2013

Versatility is Key Mantra of an Imaginative Commercial Product Photographer

Unless the shutterbug pushes the boundaries of experience to create new styles and lighting, he cannot be imaginative.

A commercial photographer with diverse experience in art can develop his own studio or work as a freelancer. His versatility extends to all presentations of filming, digital, and shooting for right products, portraits and fashion photography. Most important is the fact that he pays attention to technology and creativity. He also will go the extra mile and enjoy the beautiful experience to develop fresh methods and lighting. These are ways he will set standards for himself and gain more business.

To name a few pronounced photographers like Michael Jones does award winning photography. His forte is still, life, product, people and environment. Harold Ross creates dynamic food for advertising companies using effective light painting and creating rare photos. Alex Koloskov specializes in studio and location pictures. Dana Hursey shoots a broad spectrum of stock photography for major clientele.

Some photographers focus in shooting specific products like designer wear, spectacles, electronic items, accessories etc. There is not just one right way to shoot a photo, but a wide range of presentation styles are necessary. Each desired result may demand a different style, image to have a good effect on who is buying the product and to establish a sense of utmost confidentiality. The work can be showcased on websites, brochures and mass-media.

The shooting equipment has to be the most vital kit. Sophisticated digital cameras, lens of 2-3 kinds, tripod, reflectors and spotlights are required for a perfect picture.  A fast lens is able to focus the background of the products. Life as viewed through a lens can be very exciting. Each effort that goes into making a product look perfect is the amount of enthusiasm, zeal and passion that is spent.

The main subject of the commercial photographer is how he sells his product either in picture or story form. White backgrounds are best suited for a clear, direct picture.  All eyes instantly center on the image that is to be conveyed. Shot on white background they blend perfectly and look seamless. If a white background helps in creating a stronger brand go for it. If the brand is better off pink, white need not be used. With proper lighting and shadows the product will appear serene and beautiful.

A professional to market his photography, best images possible will pay off than a poor quality image that will cost significant loss in clients and sales. It is far better to be a perfectionist than being an amateur that can pull the entire business down.  Constructing a solid and familiar brand needs to be one of the priorities. Do what best is for long term success of your business. To enlighten and educate people about the features of the product, the photography style has to be matchless.   Create a sense of mystery to the unique styling of your latest release.


One of the toughest details for a shutterbug is that he must not blend in with his competitors, but be the best in his field of photography. And with that he is able to lend his imagination to create the best for the people who approach him for their projects.

Sunday, June 30, 2013

Product Photographer is an Artist with an Aim to Shoot!

Photography is an art and the photographer is the person who accomplishes that art through photography. Photography of products needs to be eye catchy to entice the buyers.

A freelance product photographer’s main theme is to focus on the product that a client is advertising/prompting via a press campaign. For the shutterbug, photography is an art that depicts a story with photos and videos that are worth talking about. He can explain intricate ideas with a detailed visual. He stays organized and committed to the creative aspects of the job. He keeps abreast by browsing current magazines, news articles, movies and television to improve his offerings continuously.

As part of his extensive job profile he should have the following qualities…

As a creative shooter, he should develop a unique style that is fun, witty, simple and clean. He should be creative and experiment on all sorts of product ranges that he comes across. Have to go beyond his limits to perfection every captured image. A thorough professional at editing, lighting, deciding the colour, content and texture, allows his artistic bent of mind to speak for itself. The photography of the product has to entice the buyer and capture his immediate attention.

When a customer looks at the product he wants to buy, he wants value from what is offered, weighs many significance conclusions while looking at it online. Product is for sale, yet it’s the image is an essential storefront for the customers. If photos are not displayed accurately that showcase its creative aspects like a master stroke then the value gets lost and a good customer goes. Not many vendors can afford this situation.
The camera constitutes an important part of the work, providing opportunities for development in the field. The latest cameras like Canon 5D Mark III and Nokia capture the best photographs. The lenses have the latest technology with accurate precision. They allow shots to be clicked at the right angles. They have features like edge-on oblique view, flash and setting for a perfect white balance. A shooter can use the tripod in the studio for smaller pictures, select a timer and props. Once the picture is ready, it can go for post-processing. If a product has to be sold at a high-value, one has to make sure it is an attractive one.

Each product that is caught by the camera has to have different lights that precisely control each highlight and shadow of the product independently. Each sketch is made has to be translated into photos. The product needs to be kept in a position where there is proper lighting to get the effect. Lighting plays an important role as it showcases the product accurately. Every surface has to be highlighted. Emphasize the details of craftsmanship through proper lighting tools.

All brands want to present quality, design and value of their product. The photographer needs to have innovative ideas of how to showcase them. Have the latest software training needed to process images and edit them tastefully and appealing to the end customers. “Photoshop” is graphic editing software used to edit different kinds of digital pictures’, photographs and prepare for printing.

A product photographer can help you to amplify the importance of your product online and offline-that is his primary aim to shoot!

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Amazing Approach for Positive Product Photography

Product Photography plays an important role in what the new generation wants to buy.  The photos of all products are clear, clean and crisp with good services and rewarding experiences with fair services.

How does it work? Some professionals believe in amazing approach for positive product photography work.

Today times are challenging; People all over the world have unlimited choices when it comes to buying products online.  Magazines, newspapers, big billboards; tabloids with big, colorful and smashing visuals are on almost every page that instantly hook the reader’s eye. There are myriad products like delicate jewelry, which shines with soft lighting flung on them, designer apparels and shoes staring out of the glossy pages. Youngsters are interested in what’s happening around their own universe, scanning advertisements.  It has become a vital requirement for mass media.  The commercial and fashion industry have become more innovative. All this is an amazing work of positive product photography.

There are a few reasons why the quality of photography projects has become so extraordinary. There are excellent quality of visuals, smooth backgrounds, color and provisions of the best services online, niche, professional photographers who work in large studies with lighting and props.

Shooting product photography is delivering quality work. Guaranteeing customers meaningful photos, studios meet high standards of image quality; determine the entire shoot, proper lighting, setting, and creation of the perfect environment. With a positive approach customer needs are the top priority.  Great viewing photos would delight friends and family. Flawless images by professionals for commercial purposes bring profits.         


A professional abides by the high standard of photography as priority enhances his artwork. He will know exactly which lights are required, what backdrop color is suitable to look exceptionally presentable to the end user. Photos not presentable instantly kill the entire hard work given by the client. Cameras that have sophisticated models, which are flawless for shooting, need to be well branded. The digital cameras have advanced to more multifaceted versions on detailing. They play a great role to make the product look more presentable.


A good shutterbug has an in-depth knowledge of well-known brands of digital camera makers like Cannon or Nikon. They have sophisticated models, which are immaculate for shooting product photographs. The digital cameras have advanced towards more multifaceted versions of detailing.  If the product is small and delicate it is made presentable with the use of props.  For example an ice cream cone will be shot on a tabletop or with a chic model. The brand has to immediately catch the customer’s eye across the counter.


The digital camera and its angle have to be kept in the right spot where the focus is directly aimed on the main product that needs to be photographed.  A tripod is useful for taking sharp images. Lights are an integral part of product photography. The right exposure brings out the best effects. Currently the latest style is to use compact fluorescent bulbs, which act as a great balancer. Mastering the art of photography gives shape, size, texture and sense to the finish products. With so many good influences that make one appreciate the aesthetic sense of still photos it is natural that more people wish to take advantage of it.

Sunday, June 16, 2013

Jobs for a Special Catalog Photographer

Being special catalog photographer is tough task but getting recruited for the same is even tougher. The special catalog photographer is one of the key players of product photography. He is the one who holds a perfect command over making a catalog suited photograph album.


Product photography is the backbone of several businesses and industries now days as all of their advertisements, promotions and expeditions are subject to the condition that how well they have their catalog ready. And after getting this need highlighted these clients always look forward to get an expert to associate with; this expertise is the key for a special catalog photographer and his recruitment.


Let us talk about the career and job option available for Catalog Photographer. To begin with first you have to be well versed with fundamentals and technicalities of product photography and catalog photography in particular. And for that one must approach a specialized institution, which provides all the guidance, details about the product photography. Please note that this the phase when your expertise must start taking its shape because specializing while generalizing is an old testament. The basics and fundamentals learnt at this time helps you out throughout your life.


In the aftermath of your course at the institution, with the help of institution and local yellow pages you must look out for a person who is already in the field of product photography and if possible then in Catalog Photography.  This would help you out in dual way, first, it would enrich your contacts in the field, which would be of great help in future and secondly, you will gain experience of working with an experienced person in the field.


Once you find such a person, you must make up your mind that you are there for learning only. This kind of association must be made for at least a year; so that along with the theoretical knowledge you gained at your institution you get the detailed overview of the practical aspects of the field. It is to be kept in the mind that money should never be a point of determination because most of the senior persons pay a very less amount or some of them don’t even pay, rather they focus on making you learn the fundamentals of the field.


The benefit you can avail while being an assistant is that you come to know about the clients, their likes and dislikes, choices and preferences. Also you learn to sell your work.


During this time only you should start clicking some of the photographs and subsequently terming them into a portfolio for your prospective recruiters or clients.


Based on your work you might get clients on your own or your senior may recommend you further. At the same time you must earn yourself a camera and never forget to increase your portfolio.


One thing is strongly recommended that it’s better to be a freelancer for a Special Catalog Photographer as it entails enormous independence for you in   your work.


Now once you have built up your catalog just approach the yellow pages services in your locality, local newspapers and get yourself publicized. This is how you open the success gate for you being a Special Catalog Photographer.  


Friday, May 31, 2013

360-Product Photography Specialist Tutorial

The 360 product photography is fast replacing traditional methods of catalogue photography. As the market for online products grows, the demand for product photography is also increasing.


Since most of the companies have online presence, unique product photography is used by a number of companies to attract customers. In fact, the 360-degree photography has become the main marketing technique for most of the online businesses.


Unlike the traditional two dimensional product photographs, 360-degree photography displays the products from all 360 degrees. In the past many vendors were reluctant to embrace this technology, as they are very slow to load. But with increasing broadband speeds the loading of the images has also become fast thus pushing the usage of 360 product photography. Advanced image technology has also shrunk the size of image files to 1MB allowing fast loading in the browser.


One thing to keep in mind is that, 360 degree images are not useful for all sorts of products. For example, seeing a cornflake box pack from 360 degrees will not give any special message, but looking at a camera or a car from all sides surely adds to the visual appeal. Since the cost of incorporating 360 degree images is on the higher side, businesses need to decide whether the additional cost for having 360 degree images is really worth it. 360 degree images allow the visitor to rotate the photographs to all sides, right, left, bottom and top. So the visitor is able to view the product from all its sides and also gives a clearer picture of the product one is planning to buy.


Let’s assume a situation to better explain the differences between the traditional images and the 360 degree ones. Let’s assume that a person is planning to buy a camera online. His search has shortlisted on two websites, which sells products online. Let’s also assume that, the first one has all the images in 2 dimensions, while the second one has 360 images of all the listed products. Now when the visitor visits the first sit, he sees a number of images of cameras along with the functionality listed below. Let’s assume he decides to buy a camera of brand A from the first site. Now as a second thought, he visits the second site and sees the 360 degree image of the camera of the same brand. He can see the camera from all sides and also see the different options available on the camera. The visitor will most probably buy from the second site as it gives greater details of the images of the camera. The 360 degree image also allows the buyer to thoroughly see the product before purchase, thus leaving any chances of disappointment.


By now everyone have known that the conventional product photography improves the sale of the online store, but the provision of 360 degree images boosts the customer satisfaction. Another thing to keep in mind is that not all products require 360 degree images.


Friday, May 24, 2013

Understanding Commercial Photography Studio Management Software

In today’s fast paced world commercial photography studio management software has become a necessity for the professional photographers. Since most professional photographers own proprietary firms with a small staff, they frequently face the problem of resources while delivering the final photos to the client.


Although innovations in the photography industry have reduced the work burden, there is still scope for improvement. Some innovations such as the Photoshop software and other photo editing software have made the work of creation quite easy. The launch of commercial photography studio management software has enabled the photographers to streamline their business operations in a professional way. This software helps in the management of data of different clients and saves valuable time. Nowadays a number of companies have launched studio management software. While considering such software, make sure that it has the following features.


The first one is the contact and calendaring tools. For any business to flourish marketing and lead generation are important. It is essential to properly manage all the contacts to get a leap ahead of the competition. For instance, most of the commercial photography studio software programs offer a system for input of leads and their classification. Some also allow scheduling for follow ups and other advanced features. Any software, which can seamlessly combine the calendar tool along with the scheduling tool, will boost the efficiency of the business.


The inclusion of finance tools is also important as most photographers are engrossed in the art of taking photographs and most of the times ignore the financial aspects of the work. Any business in which the financial domain is not properly checked or is ignored then surely the business will be doomed. Any studio management software should offer a set of specific finance tools, which allow tracking of all the financial data. Some of the essential tools include basic accounting tools to track revenue and expense, along with other tools for creating invoices and receipts. Some studio management software also includes the ability to make detailed proposals and financial estimates for the prospective clients.


Another important feature of this type of software is project and client management facility. It is a known fact that most of the financially successful photographers are not that good in terms of photography skills and most of the highly skilled photographers are not financially successful. The reason for this is that financially successful photographer managed his finances well, while the highly skilled photographer may not be able to manage his finances. The client and project management feature of the studio management software allows the skilled photographer to concentrate on the art of photography leaving the work of client and finance management with the software.  


Some studio management software allows photo and gallery storage. Some online software platforms such as Flickr and Shutterbug allow photographers to create photo galleries and store photos. Other photography studio management software not only allows the creation and storage of galleries but also allow sharing with clients. Other tools to look for in any studio management software include financial record, lead tracking, lead generation tools, web site builders and referral tools.


Friday, May 17, 2013

7 Lucky Tips for Catalog Photography


Catalog photography depends on high quality photographs for selling the products, be it the online version or the traditional paper version.


Today’s digital cameras have technology which allows even amateurs to take good quality pictures, although they are not always as perfect as those clicked by professional commercial photographers. Professionals have expertise and experience of many years, which allows them to snap breathtaking images. Most of the professionals follow these 7 lucky tips for catalog photography


Tip 1: The lighting


The light in the background is one of the most important aspects of commercial photography. Photographers use light to bring the fine points of the object and also adds mood to an image. The catalog photos are not only meant to be informative, but they should also attract the prospective buyers. These images should evoke a positive emotion for a customer and elicit an "I must have this" approach. Although bright light boosts the detail of the image, it may at times also wash out the whole image. Another important thing to keep in mind while using bright light is the direction of the light and the corresponding presence or absence of shadows.


While the photographic lights are white, the natural light have tones of yellow or red depending on its source. Many professional photographers use color filters to change the quality of light and to make it appear more natural.


Tip 2: Zoom on the details


Since catalog customers cannot see the products from a close range, they are unable to observe the high quality of the products on display if proper zooming is not used. Every successful catalog includes a number of views of the object allowing the shoppers to get a better idea of the product from all sides before buying. Close up photographs allows the vendor to highlight the special features of the product. Close up photography is easier said than done. Commercial photographers typically use a technique called macro photography, which reproduces fine details of the object with perfect clarity. Most of the cameras available in the market have the macro setting, but getting the effective catalog photos requires patience and practice.


Tip 3: the composition


Taking a photo with a neutral background makes the viewer focus on the subject only. Busy backgrounds or cluttered pictures are often distracting, but carefully selected items in the background enhance the catalog images and make the product more attractive.


Tip 4: Master Rotation Luke!


It is advisable not to rotate the polarizer to full effect. It is better to find the right quantity of polarization to enhance certain images


Tip 5: the framing


Sometimes simple compositions work better with products. It is advisable to avoid shooting from odd angles as well.


Tip 6: Add your stamp


After completing the technicalities, it is advisable to add the photographer’s stamp in the photo to get unique images. It is always better to get a good selection rather than re-shooting the picture.


Tip 7: Post process   


The post process is as important as the shoot itself. Some minor problems, such as low lights can be taken care of before finalizing.


Friday, May 10, 2013

Challenges in the Commercial Market for a Product Photographer


Product photographers are the specialized persons who possess expertise in certain typical areas like travel, cosmetics etc. where the product photography is said to be the backbone of the business.


Realizing the fact the product photography is though available for almost all the fields yet availed by a very few industries, the persons engaged in such a profession have to face certain unique and genuine challenges pertaining to their business.


The profession demands a high level of concentration, dedication and focus oriented persons and it is natural once a person equips with all of these he would look forward to get his work properly rewarded as well as compensated.


The first and foremost problem or challenge which a product photographer faces is that whom to approach for selling or getting associated with in furtherance of his work, because underestimation, less valuation are few of the initial fear in the mind of a product photographer. This problem can be combated while making a campaign-based study and analysis of the market and the players thereof.
Secondly, once you get a client the next thing which would strike is that what pictures would be purchased by the prospective buyer and also how much would he be paying for that and would that be enough to square his efforts while clicking particular product snap. This is one of the most common challenges faced by product photographers and this can be handled by categorizing your work in different classes such as indoor pictures, outdoor pictures etc. this would give the client a positive impression as to seriousness in work and dedication thereto.


Your path in the product photography gets much easier once you start making clients. The best way to maintain clients and utilizing them for your benefit is to regularly visit them and also noting down their need at particular point of time and also to supply them as per their need. This is dual beneficial approach where your clients remain satisfied with you and at the same time you might also be recommended for others as well.


Putting your pictures into a collective exhibition or individual one as per your convenience is a nice option to establish a client list and accordingly redeeming it for yourself. Exhibitions are the place where only true lovers of art come down and show their interest in quality work. It opens gate of opportunities for you, as these people either hire you or would refer your work to someone who actually can see and redeem your work.


The problems or challenges for the time being might prevail even after applying the above mentioned solutions, the ultimate solutions remain is that to advertise yourself and make available your pictures to the world. A healthy help may be taken from the local newspapers, local business websites and other yellow pages services. Even if it doesn’t bring clients to you but it would definitely bring your name and work into the eyes of the masses.


At the same time, it is also to be promulgated that you should keep yourself updated and well equipped with latest techniques so as to remain in the hunt for success. These challenges are never permanent in nature; they come to you, test you and leave you with experiences.


Wednesday, May 1, 2013

Pattern Pulp, the Latest in Product Photography


Though in its inception age, the pattern pulp photography is aiming towards an all new future of product photography.


The usual practice of product photography is now going through transition phase where the old ideas and patterns are either replaced or being modified in collaboration of newly advanced and next generation technologies. Gone out the days when a traditional and orthodox approach was adopted in product photography. Meaning thereby, putting the product in the center then clicking it from different locations, verticals and horizontals and mixing them up under different color combination and at the end calling a meeting of the clients and voting as to which is the best suitable combination and how would it be pleasing for the customers.


Today, while the customers are riding the storm of market, once you decide to incorporate product photography for your product, it becomes irresistible for you to opt for the most recent and updated technology for your product.


Now days we have certain very advanced and technical photography methods are being used, such as white background product photography and then comes the newly born baby of The Pattern Pulp Studio New York called the Pattern Pulp Photography.


This kind of photography ensures that the subject product gets a full coverage and at the same time it should look as much impressive as it can to the customer. Basically it can be said that the Pattern Pulp Photography is mixture of multi dimensional art like 2D and 3D and of certain creative concepts.  The pattern pulp photography has just started to see the light of the day and accordingly we can expect certain new developments into it.


Creativity is at best when we observe and begin to see the pattern pulp pictures. Here, in this kind of product photography the product is not held by the model, it’s the environment which is created around the product while using certain different products and then uniting them under one ongoing concept. Suppose, we have to do the pattern pulp photography for a shoe product, what we will be doing is that not to make a model wear those shoes and make him a do a catwalk, or portraying him to be a handsome hunk once he wears those shoes, rather, unlike this kind of approach the pattern pulp photographer shall click one or more pictures of the shoe in its simplest form but at the same time he will put one or two bananas, one pot full of mud  to show the actual gripping power of the product as well genuineness of material used in the product so that it does not get vanished in mud.


This is how; we see that pattern pulp photography is operated through a well thought over combination of concepts and technology; in the above illustrated example it’s not necessary that we put a real banana or muddy pot, rather it can be done through  2D or 3D art.


To conclude it can be said that the future of product photography lies in the pattern pulp photography as it preserves the scope for a talented photographer as well as an emerging 2D or 3D artist.