Photography tips and advice for beginners

HDR (High Dynamic Range) photography is very popular at the moment, even the iphone 4 has a HDR setting! If you are new to photography and you want to create something a little special to impress then I suggest this technique as a show stopper each time.

HOW IT WORKS

Basically you take a series of images of the same subject with different exposures, the only rules are that it has to be of a stationary scene so no movement as the images are finally overlapped on each other. I often use just three exposure settings, my first shot is set at the perfect exposure or 0 on your cameras light meter, then shift to to -2 then finally on to +2. To achieve the best results you need to place the camera on a tripod of flat surface to avoid camera shake and always recommend using the timer facility to stop any movement within the camera. Most DSLR cameras now come with the facility to automate this process in the menu, so once the timer is set your camera will take three shots with the relevant exposure settings you have dialed in.

THE CAMERA SETTINGS

With HDR photography you really are looking at the amazing detail it captures, so to take advantage of this always set your ISO to 100, and set your aperture to around F22 (large Depth Of Field) to get everything in focus, and finally even if your are shooting in low light it does not matter as you have the camera nice and still on a tripod so the exposures can be nice and long.

CREATING THE HDR IMAGE

Photoshop of course will do most things and yes can create a good HDR image for you, however the best work flow I have come across and use is Photomatix Pro. The main reason is because its so simple and gives you full control of lots of features. You can download the software for free, however it watermarks so the full version is available at a very reasonable cost. Just look below for the link to the site.

We really do shoot a 50/50 split with our customers, some clients will tell you what they prefer but most clients require a little guidance. A majority will assume you only take images in the studio (if you have one) so can often be a surprise when you ask if they would like the shoot at home or a location of their choice.

Studio Pros

The weather for one will not effect your subjects, plus you will be familiar with your light set up so all you really need to concentrate on gaining expressions and making your customers feel comfortable. If you are luck enough to have a good set up, your customers will have access to toilets, changing facilities and tea and coffee!

Studio Cons

This is not true to a vast number of photographers however there is the risk of your images lacking an individual style, also sometimes you as a photographer can become quite lazy if you dont have to think too hard!

Location Pros

Firstly you get the added thrill of having to be a little more creative and think on your feet which I personally love. I find that younger children are easier to get expressions from when they have that little more freedom. Depending on the time of year and weather you really can get some amazing lighting to make your images look amazing, plus create real wow factor with your own unique style. Plus choosing something like a beach setting really encourages your clients to be tempted by a nice large image!

Location Cons

The weather, mid day sun causing horrible shadows, rain always a bad look! The cold if you have very young children and older people. It is more of a challenge but the more you do it the more you want to shoot outside (me anyway)

So you need to get the family photographed, here are a few key facts to help you choose some of the best portrait photographers for your family. It can be difficult as when you search online there are hundreds of family photographers out there all wanting to attract your attention. My first piece of advice would be to choose a couple of photographers who are local to you and simply give them a call.
You will know in the first few minutes if you have a photographer who is used to booking in families and children, they will ask about your children and their ages and sleeping patterns in order too choose the best time for them. Advice will be offered on what to wear and what you should and should not say to the children to make the session successful. Once you have found the photographer you want to use, ask some friends or colleagues if they have used this company/photographer before to get some feedback.
Before you book in ask a few questions about pricing and products, you more often than not get what you pay for, try to see this as an investment for your family as after all this is a lifetime purchase so don't be looking for the cheapest option as you will be disappointed.
So you are all ready, you go to the studio or location, the session is brilliant and you can not wait to see the finished result. An appointment is usually made at this stage to invite you to see the previews, also this is a good time to just to have another look at the products on offer so you can begin to plan where to hang your amazing new portraits.
I find some of the best photographers will like to show you the previews instead of a sales person, again another key point as sometimes you can be overwhelmed with the choosing your images and knowing how best to display them. Your photographer will be able to guide you with professional display advice even down to the framing style.
Having your family portraits taken should be an enjoyable experience, young children love looking at themselves in pictures especially with Mummy or Daddy, so if you have been putting it off, just do it pick up the phone and get booked in!

For my personal images I use Photobox and Jessops (UK BASED) the images are very reasonable and look fabulous. They both have a simple user interface and images are usually with you within 24 hrs.

So you are at the hospital and baby is on its way, nothing can prepare you for what is about to happen, a truly life changing moment. The moment you see your baby for the first time is etched in to your memory bank forever, those tiny fingers and toes, the first look into your eyes something that is magical. This moment you will want to hold onto for as long as possible, but even at this time, you have think about capturing it forever. A little preparation is all that is needed to get some professional images of your new bundle of joy.
Before baby is born spend a little time looking for a professional photographer, look at their portfolio and creative style to make sure it reflects your own personal taste. Think of this experience as a investment for your future, not a price conscious exercise. When you have found the right photographer they will outline what you need to do, here are a few suggestions to help you.
Think about all the things that make you happy, a great train of thought is a hobby, maybe you are into horses so a shot of baby curled up in a saddle would be fun, or even a racing helmet with baby lying over it asleep. Little props to make the images personal to you.
When you book your session don't be afraid to add suggestions, it helps you engage into a professional relationship all trying to get the best possible photographs from your shoot. If you come across passionate and excited you will also get the same reaction from your photographer.