Category: General Photography
The 25+ Best Places To Find Photography Jobs
The 25+ Best Places To Find Photography Jobs
Turning your photography into a career can seem like a daunting task, but we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide of the best places to find photography gigs and jobs to help make the process easier. Whether you want to explore full-time or freelance options, we’ve got you covered:
Full-Time Job Boards
Finding a full-time photography job can take the form of many different positions, such as an in-house photographer for marketing companies, photojournalist, or content creation positions. Most of these job boards offer full-time, part-time, and freelance positions, as well as have resources to help you make the most out of your search.
Be sure to get creative with your search, and use keywords that describe the type of position you’re looking for. Exploring these job boards will help you discover what type of positions are open, so you can start preparing for your photography career.
1. Get Photography Jobs
Start your search with Get Photography Jobs where you can find industry specific jobs. Get Photography Jobs operates like a typical job board, allowing you to search by keyword, location, or browse by an entire state. This site has an email newsletter that can send you jobs based on your preferences as they are listed, and their resources section is full of great sites for photography tips and tricks.
2. Indeed
Indeed is a comprehensive job board that allows you to search by keyword and location, as well as job type like full-time, part-time, remote, and freelance. While Indeed is not specific to photographers, it does have a lot of options, and it’s updated constantly.
Users have the option to apply through job links as a guest, or to create an account that saves their resume for quick applying. Indeed also offers email services that provide updates on each application’s status, and sends similar job postings when they come up.
3. Glassdoor
Glassdoor is a comprehensive job board aimed at helping people get started in their careers, as well as find a good company fit. Glassdoor allows users to see company reviews and statistics, which can help users determine if a company will be a good fit before applying.
Glassdoor utilizes email to send job suggestions when new positions are posted, and to send a newsletter with resources on helping find the perfect career. To get started with Glassdoor, simply make an account and start searching for photography jobs in your area.
4. ZipRecruiter
ZipRecruiter makes searching for full-time positions easy by allowing users to save their resume, to make applying to multiple jobs quick and simple. ZipRecruiter also offers resources for job hunters to find the average salary for positions in each field, and can be used to search for all kinds of employment like full-time, part-time, and freelance work.
5. SimplyHired
SimplyHired is a great search engine for anyone seeking full-time and part-time positions. SimplyHired allows users to search for jobs in any category, as well as in any location. To utilize this source for photography jobs use keywords that describe what type of position you’re looking for, i.e. real estate photography, content photography.
SimplyHired also has an easy-to-use resume builder on their site, which makes it easy to tailor your resume to specific job postings when needed.
6. Job.com
Job works like an automated recruiting company, and uses AI (artificial intelligence) to match your resume to jobs that will be a good fit for you. This is a great way to find multiple jobs that you’re qualified for quickly, and it can help cut down on the job search time.
Instead of sifting through job postings, Job is great for those with a strong resume that shows off their photography skills and areas of expertise.
7. LinkedIn
LinkedIn doubles as a job board and social media platform where you can combine the power of networking to your photography job search. Apply to jobs posted on LinkedIn using your resume and portfolio, and at the same time, grow your professional network to discover freelancing or full-time gigs with companies you follow. LinkedIn also allows you to search professionals, chat with employees, and create organic connections with employers, so you can find the best fit for you.
Freelancing Gigs
Freelance gigs are a great way to find photography work and help diversify your creative portfolio. Freelance jobs can be one-off gigs or recurring positions with a company, but they are usually inconsistent.
Starting the search for freelance work can be intimidating, but the following sites are full of options and resources to help you get started.
8. Flexjobs
Flexjobs is a job search engine that specializes in remote, or work-from-home, settings. While Flexjobs offers options in part-time, full-time, and freelance, it is a great place to find freelance gigs that you can do without going into an office setting. Since it emphasizes work that can be done remotely or on a flexible schedule, Flexjobs is a great website to find photography gigs.
9. Freelanced
Freelanced is a social network designed to help connect freelancers with gigs and opportunities. This site is great for creating a profile and connecting with professionals in your area, as well as sifting through job postings to find opportunities. Freelanced also enables you to post your portfolio and rate, so employers can find your information while searching for candidates.
10. People Per Hour
To use People Per Hour, freelancers can navigate through the application process to become a certified People Per Hour freelancer. Upon application acceptance, freelancers can be searched by potential employers, as well as gain access to job postings on the platform.
People Per Hour is a great site for finding gigs that match your specific skill set, and their application process helps employers get to know more about you before hiring.
11. Upwork
Upwork is a site that does it all for freelancers. It handles the job process from start to finish, including hiring, sending files, messaging with employers, and getting paid. This website is great for freelancers who want to know more about the employer, and want to be able to do everything on one platform.
Upwork does charge a service fee, though, so it’s important to keep this in mind when using this platform.
12. Fiverr
Fiverr is a platform dedicated to freelancers where you start by setting up a “gig” for users to search and find the service(s) you offer. Users can hire you for a specific gig you create, and all billing is done through Fiverr.
Fiverr does charge a 20% fee, however, they do offer resources to help with your professional development. Fiverr is great for photographers who want to get matched with buyers seeking specific skills.
13. Craigslist
Just like the original newspaper classifieds, Craigslist is a great source for finding freelance photography gigs. Craigslist is super easy to navigate, and you can scroll through all the postings that come up in the photography jobs section.
Since Craigslist has been around for a while, it is typically a solid resource for photographers to find one-off gigs and jobs. However, it is important to use Craigslist with caution, and never share personal information if a job seems too good to be true.
14. JournalismJobs
JournalismJobs is a site specifically for those wanting to work in the journalism industry, and there are tons of photo opportunities in this field. Not all JournalismJobs postings are for freelancers, but a lot of the journalism industry is fueled by freelance work, so it is a great place to start looking for these types of gigs.
15. The Creative Loft
The Creative Loft is a job board dedicated to listing jobs in creative fields, which makes it a great choice for photographers who are looking for freelance or full-time work. This site enables users to create a public profile, save preferences, and emails users new listings that fit their career needs.
16. GigBucks
GigBucks is all about helping you land your next micro job, which is a great way to fuel your photography side hustle. The job board specializes in short-terms jobs/gigs that range between $5-$50. This platform is a bit different than others listed here, since it allows posters to share their work and prices for buyers to easily find.
17. GoLance
GoLance is a platform that helps connect buyers with freelancers, while also allowing freelancers to browse different job listings. Simply create a profile and then you’re ready to start your job search! GoLance also has great resources like the goMeter Time Tracker and enhanced work diary, so you can get ahead on all of your gigs.
18. Guru
Guru is a freelance job board that allows freelancers to contact employers and send quotes for specific job requests. This platform is great for photographers who have a set rate, and it is an easy way to find side gigs or recurring freelance jobs. Guru also has a workroom feature that allows users to collaborate with other workers, and to get paid through their platform once the job is complete.
19. Workhoppers
Workhoppers does the matching for you when it comes to searching for jobs. Fill out your profile, and you’ll be on your way to receiving customized job listings that best fit your profile skills.
This is great for photographers who work in specific settings like weddings or sports, as well as for photographers with other skills like content creation or social media experience. Best of all, Workhoppers is a completely free service!
20. Facebook
The social media giant, Facebook, is not only a great palace to connect with friends, but it can also be a great resource to help photographers find freelance work. There are Facebook groups dedicated to job listings for freelancers, or you can post your own skills into a status for anyone in your circle to see.
Similar to Craigslist or any other classifieds platform, it is important to exercise caution when looking at jobs or opportunities on social media, but when used correctly, Facebook is a great way to connect for freelancing gigs.
Stock Image Contributors
Another way to turn your photography into a job is to sell your photos to stock websites. Each website has its own way of hiring and paying photographers, but most of them work off of royalties, so the more your images are used, the more money you can make.
21. Getty Images
Getty Images is a stock image website that pays contributors through royalties. To apply, you can download the app and upload your sample images to be accepted by the website. Once accepted, you can check out the creative briefs by Getty Images and start uploading content that users are looking for. The more relevant your photos are, the more money you can make.
22. Shutterstock
Shutterstock allows you to upload your work and get paid every time your content is downloaded, and you can make even more money by referring contributors and customers. Shutterstock is a great platform for working on your professional development because they have tons of resources to help you succeed in selling your work. Shutterstock has easy to use tools on their site, so you can track your earnings and strategize to make your work even better.
23. DepositPhotos
DepositPhotos uses an application process to be sure your photos meet their requirements, and they pay on a commission-base. After being accepted as a contributor, you can start uploading your work and making money each time your images are downloaded. DepositPhotos allows you to contribute to multiple stock photo websites, as long as you aren’t an Exclusive Author for their site, which means you can start racking up your sales in stock photos.
Real Estate Photography Jobs
Another creative way to make money from your photography is to get started as a real estate photographer. While a lot of real estate photography is freelance, there are some sites that look for contributors and are easy for you to get in contact with. Real Estate photography requires some practice and special equipment, but once you have some experience, you’ll be ready to turn your skills into freelance gigs.
24. Obeo
Obeo has an application process that helps photographers partner with them to shoot their real estate listings. Once your application is accepted, you can set your own schedule and conduct shoots on your own time, which makes it a great platform for those seeking flexibility in their schedule. Obeo allows you to work as little or as much as you want, so your freelancing can be seen as a side gig or closer to a full-time job depending on your needs.
25. RocketPhoto
RocketPhoto allows you to create a profile, so realtors can find you and book you for their photography needs. You also have full ability to set your own pricing and schedule. It’s free to create a profile on RocketPhoto, and they even offer upgrades to access their professional development tools to help you grow your business and expand your contacts.
26. Zillow
Zillow is one of the biggest real estate platforms, so there is a lot of opportunity when photographing real estate properties for them. You can apply to become a certified Zillow photographer, and their program offers training that will help you succeed in the field. Once accepted as one of their contributors and you complete the training, you’ll be on your way to taking jobs and adding to your freelance lineup.
Whether you’re looking for a full-time, part-time, or even freelance gig, there is a world of opportunity out there to turn your photography into a money-making venture to support your goals as a photographer. Utilizing the job boards in this article will help you get started, but never stop improving your skills and upgrading your gear to get the most out of your abilities!
To stay in tune with the best tips and guides on photography, make sure to check out the Grid50 resources area, and if you’re looking to pick up some new gear, Grid50’s marketplace is the go-to place to find the best deals on new and used photography equipment!
What It’s Like Being a Woman Photographer: Breaking Into an Industry in 2020
What It’s Like Being a Woman Photographer: Breaking Into an Industry in 2020
In this article, we hear from several female photographers on their perspective and experience getting started and working in the mostly male-dominated, photography industry.
Ever since I was a toddler, I had a fixation with cameras and the stories they capture. As a
young girl, I took photos of my dolls and labeled them “professional portrait sessions”. At age sixteen, I captured portraits of friends and uploaded them to social media. My business blossomed and slowly snowballed into a career.
Breaking into the portrait industry has taught me a lot about my strengths and weaknesses
as a woman in the field. While there have been some struggles, there are also the opportunities to tune into natural gifts. The challenges can be heavy but the rewards always outweigh them. This article touches the tip of the iceberg of my experiences as a portrait photographer.
The Challenges of Being a Woman Photographer
The male-dominated field involves technology and knowledge of equipment. I have been
quizzed on the spot in condescending ways. I often feel as if I have something to prove.
Demeaning and Derogatory Comments
Experts have gone straight to critiquing flaws in my skillset or composition without giving the perspective a second thought. I once took my camera to the shop to check if a lens was broken or just needed calibration. The man helping me fiddled with my camera then said “You have it set to manual? That’s surprising.”
Photography is an art and art is subjective. This disadvantage in the field stems from not
only having more male professionals but a saturated male audience.
I have also received comments stating, “You’re sure you don’t want a career in front of the
camera?” Even if they had complimentary intentions, it’s disrespectful and belittling to my work. The same context of telling a woman she should smile more.
Sometimes I feel guilty for wanting to get into high fashion or editorial work because I
don’t want to contribute to the unhealthy beauty standards of women. I’ve dipped my toes in the modeling industry from both sides of the lens and I’ve experienced the ridiculous practices they expect from women to maintain shape/size.
I have reached a crossroads by not wanting to contribute to the negative but I’m also very allured by the creativity and boldness of the fashion and beauty industry.
Many of the other women photographers we interviewed for this piece also have received demeaning and derogatory comments when working in the field. Here are just a few of their responses:
“As with any other job, being a female in a male dominated industry can be a little challenging in the way that we are not taken as seriously as our male counterparts. It is definitely something that can be overcome and is getting better every day with more and more female photographers getting out there and showing their talents.”
Tina Butera
Lifestyle, Family, & Portrait Photographer at Tina Butera Photography“I think the biggest con of being a female photographer, particularly in New Hampshire which has a largely male corporate workforce, is just not being taken seriously.”
Kelly McCaskill
Owner & Lead Photographer at Ridgelight Studio“Being a woman has made me have to work even harder to prove myself. There have been times people have assumed on shoots that I am a photo assistant and not the principal photographer. In the past, I even kept my photo off my website so prospective clients could only judge me on my work.”
Agnes Lopez
Food, Lifestyle, & Commercial Photographer at Agnes Lopez Photography“I faced a lot of discredit even when I have explained I have won more than 50 international awards. Female aren’t expected to succeed, at least not in a market dominated by men…My most negative experience was when a guest stood up to me during the reception and simply asked me ‘Do you want to see my d*ck?’ in the most creepy way.
I simply left him waiting for my answer and ignored him the rest of the evening. He was the groom’s cousin and even had a speech after that. I really really hesitated to let the couple know but he never talked to me again so I didn’t.”
Amber
Adventure Elopement Photographer at Zephyr & Luna“It doesn’t matter whether I am behind the camera or in front of it when I am modeling for my content, I have been catcalled hundreds of times almost for every photoshoot I have done outdoors. Street harassment is never a compliment and it also gives me a strong feeling that female photographers aren’t taken seriously as professionals when they are out there doing the hard work.
The most outrageous experience I had happened when my friend and I were shooting a campaign on Parisian streets a couple of years ago. When the cat-calling ended with us being spit on and cussed out by a couple of men who were denied to be a part of our ‘sweet lady shooting’.
It ruined our entire day and the most disappointing part was that we felt helpless, as even when police arrived, those guys were gone and the police just asked us to chill, because it did not constitute a crime that needed to be reported. Unfortunately, for some people, female photographers with cameras are just girls playing games that can be caught off guard and objectified at any time.”
Katie One
Fashion Photographer & Blogger at KatieOne.com
Being a “Bitch”
Another challenge faced is on the frontlines of business. Young girls have been raised with learned politeness that has clashed with running my business. People attempt to demand extra inconveniences of my effort and time. Friendliness can be mistaken for an appeasing personality. When I am stern and professional, I am “bitchy” or “bossy”.
It took awhile for me to learn and accept that I am the boss. I use my discretion to decide who I would like to work with. Entitled clients are not worth it. People that disrespect my prices and time are not the clients I want. In addition to entitlement, I have had blatant fraud artists attempt to scam me with counterfeit cashier’s checks.
Here is an example of the same scam artist, using a terrible script (it’s the misspelling of “wedding” that gives him/her away):
Fear of Safety
The most extreme weakness for being a woman in the portrait photography industry is fearing for my safety.
In severe cases, I have felt very vulnerable. I have received “queries” from men to photograph them nude. I have experienced attempts to lure me to isolate areas, offering me a significant amount more than my listed rates. I immediately deleted the more disturbing emails because they caused me distress, reminding me of a horrifying experience I had as a teenager on a photoshoot.
Here are a few of the leads:
When I decline to travel to their home, they become upset with me. I’ve been called terrible names and threatened when I decline or choose not to reply. I’ve been told to “eat a cup of sh*t, you stupid f*ck” after refusing to take nude photos of a man.
Being a woman in general, I’m always taking into account to not meet people in isolated areas, especially men. This influences the hesitation I feel to someday invest in my own studio because it would be a private, personal setting. I fear being mugged of my equipment, assaulted, kidnapped, or killed because I am a one-woman show, freelance photographer.
The Pros of Being a Woman Photographer
Photo Credit: Madison Stringfellow
Enough with the doom and gloom, there are many advantages to being a woman in photography. For example, models often seem more eager to work with me and trusting of my motives.
In Los Angeles, there is a community “blacklist” consisting of (mostly) male photographers that have been reported for sexual harassment and/or exploitation. This list exists within the social media community, typically circulated via Facebook groups. Woman to woman there is a general understanding that I am creating to create, not to sexualize.
Another advantage is the neurology of a woman’s brain. Our wiring is designed to be more active than a male brain, always scanning for details and assessing emotions (Different Brains, Different Behaviors: Why Women Lead Differently Than Men, 2017). I will immediately notice anything from a hair tie around someone’s wrist to a traffic cone in the distant background. I can easily connect with my subject and deliver a portrait that captures raw feelings.
Women tend to have a natural fashion sense and that helps when clients want input/opinions on coordinating outfits. We can be more intuitive to beauty, especially features of other women. I can fix hair or give facial instructions to realign a subject’s expression.
Photo Credit: Madison Stringfellow
I empathize with wanting to look the best you can. Women are our own worst critics. We often notice other aspects of beauty such as hair, eye expressions, and smiles. Whereas men tend to notice body features and their appearance first. I have worked with male photographers that have delivered me images of my face mid expression change, but my cleavage was bulging out. I asked myself if they even looked at my face when editing.
Men and women see the world differently. A woman’s work can manifest from feminine
energy and opposite perspectives. I personally don’t take anything at face value which leaves me constantly looking for a deeper message. This encourages visual storytelling about lives through portraiture. I place more poignant value on candid photographs as opposed to stills.
Photo Credit: Madison Stringfellow
Women have been recorded to have stronger emotional skills than men (Are Women More Emotionally Intelligent Than Men?, 2011) which helps in connecting to people on an empathetic level.
Agnes Lopez, a food, lifestyle, and commercial photographer, shares a similar viewpoint based on an unfortunately poor experience she had working with a male photographer:
“I used to work as a wardrobe stylist for several stock photography companies before I became a photographer. So I have worked with a lot of male photographers in the industry. I remember working on a shoot and the photographer got really frustrated with the young model. She started to cry and the photographer looked over to me to help calm her down and get her to do what he needed her to do.
I thought to myself, how can you get a good picture of someone if they are terrified of you. I would always observe the photographers and would think how I would do things differently or even better, haha. So I decided to pursue photography myself.”
One of my favorite parts about photography is the people I meet, along the opportunities I stumble upon. I’ve worked with minor celebrities and clients that have become close friends. I tend to focus on humanity in my work before technicalities.
The road with photography is infinite. It can range from suburban portrait photography,
high fashion photography, celebrity photography, travel photography, brand photography, photojournalism, activism, etc. It is very empowering to be a creator and have my work appreciated and acknowledged. I hope to someday create a platform I can use to raise awareness and encourage progression.
Photo Credit: Madison Stringfellow
The best thing about photography is there is no cap to growth. Technology development is accelerating and creativity is limitless. My advice to anyone working in photography is to never be an expert. Don’t bind yourself to the idea that you have mastered the skill. Always practice, learn, experiment and improve. Always innovate. Always create!
As Katie One, a fashion photographer and blogger, puts it: “There is always someone to doubt you, to think that you are not a ‘serious’ photographer and think of you as ‘a girl that plays with a camera’ but that should never get you. You are the boss and you should always find a way to do what you love the most.”
51 Tumblr Photography Blogs You NEED to Know
51 Tumblr Photography Blogs You Need to Know
Whether you are a seasoned or aspiring photographer, these Tumblr photography blogs should be on your radar.
Tumblr is a useful site where you can showcase your photography or look for inspiration. Plus, if you need advice or want to learn more about this art form, try reaching out to some of your favorite photography bloggers. Many of these blogs feature an “Ask Me Anything” box where you can connect directly with these photographers.
If you are ready to find some new photographer bloggers to follow, keep reading. We’ve gathered a list of over 50 Tumblr photography blogs you should know about:
No Ordinary Sunset
No Ordinary Sunset is a travel and photography blog where the photographer shares her “quest to capture the most extraordinary sunsets and a home for all the memories in between.” This blog can be a great source of inspiration for travel and landscape photographers.
Chris Burkard Studio
Although Chris Burkard rarely updates this Tumblr account, the archive is filled with crisp, bright images of the outdoors. Scroll through this Central California artist’s portfolio for inspiration on nature photography.
Tobishinobi
This award-winning photographer offers a unique perspective on cities, streets, and architecture. On Tobishinobi’s Tumblr, the artist often provides a description of how he captured the shot.
Time LightBox
For those interested in photojournalism, the Time LightBox Tumblr is a notable resource. Although no longer regularly updated, browse the archive for compelling photographs and news stories.
Photography Week
This Tumblr blog is associated with digital magazine Photography Week, which is a great resource for photographers of all levels. As you scroll through the blog, you can read excerpts from past issues and gain insight into how specific pictures were captured.
Portrait Page
Instead of focusing on the work of a single photographer, Portrait Page curates interesting portraits from a variety of artists. By following this blog, you will be exposed to multiple perspectives and gain inspiration for taking compelling and modern portraits.
Spaces | Debora Smail
Debora Smail is a “Freelance Visualist specializing in Culinary, Editorial & Photojournalistic Photography.” Her Tumblr page is filled with unique shots of interior spaces. If you are interested in shooting restaurants, retail stores, or other interiors, check out Debora Smail’s page to help get your creative juices flowing.
Sonya Yu
This archived Tumblr page is the portfolio of San Francisco-based photographer Sonya Yu. As you browse her page, you will find a selection of photographs covering a wide range of subjects, including children, dogs, food, landscapes, and interiors. The vibrant and inviting pictures each tell a story and are worth studying for novice photographers.
Donny Tsang
Donny Tsang describes himself as “a photographer who explores culture through food. Working in a photojournalistic style, I capture candid moments of food makers in their kitchens.” His Tumblr page is filled with captivating images of fried chicken. He has worked with many culinary clients, including Food & Wine Magazine and Serious Eats, and is an artist that all inspiring food photographers should be aware of.
Ben Lowy
Ben Lowy started his photography blog as a way to showcase the images he captured around the world using his iPhone. Now, his blog is a photo journal of his daily experiences. This blog is a great demonstration that inspiration for great photographs can be found anywhere.
The World We Live In
This archived Tumblr blog The World We Live In features a collection of interesting photographs from around the world. Browse their collection to gain inspiration and to get a glimpse into how a variety of photographers see the world. Expect to see plenty of impressive travel photographs on their blog.
L’oeil Ailleurs
For those interested in learning about the story behind the photograph, scroll through the collection on the L’oeil Ailleurs Tumblr photography blog. To accompany each picture, the photographer includes a blurb about their history and sources of inspiration. Some of the stories also include information about the cameras and equipment used to capture the shot.
Show Me Pictures
Show Me Pictures has an interesting portfolio that focuses on the gritty and seemingly trivial aspects of everyday life. By capturing these elements in an artistic way, the photographer brings importance to these moments. If you need inspiration for taking this style of picture, browse the collection on the SMP blog.
The Photographers Directory
According to their blog, “The Photographers Directory aims to project photographers on Tumblr on to the global stage, by recognizing and showcasing their original creative work.” Photographers can submit their original work to the site’s curators. When you review this blog, you will notice that most of the pictures include a helpful description of how the shot was captured.
Forgotten Iowa
Cody Weber is a photographer from Keokuk, Iowa. He spends his time traveling throughout the state. His blog, Forgotten Iowa, is a collection of the images he has captured along his journey. His images all tell a unique story of a place that is often overlooked by photographers.
National Geographic Found
Nat Geo no longer updates this account, but you should still browse the collection to check out these interesting captures. National Geographic Found was a blog dedicated to images from their archives. These vintage pictures can help you get an even greater appreciation for the history of this art form.
Original Photographers
This curated blog is useful for anyone interested in learning from multiple artists. Original Photographers takes submissions and gathers original images from photographers across the world. Instead of only seeing the perspective of one artist, you can get an idea of how many different artists see the world.
Online Journal by Megan McIssac
Any aspiring photographers without formal training should follow Megan McIssac’s blog. This self-taught photographer began taking pictures when she was 7 years old and today she works as a freelancer. Her clients include Levi’s, Netflix, NoMad Hotels, and more. Browse her portfolio or take advantage of the question and answer section on her blog to learn from the artist.
RUSH
If done well, black and white photographs are very compelling. Although this style can feel forced or tired at times, the RUSH blog shows how black and white can be used well. Scroll through the archive for an impressive collection of striking black and white images.
American Photo
Photographers are inspired by many different things. Some want to capture aesthetically-pleasing shots. Others want to tell a story with their image. If you are working towards photojournalism or storytelling, browse the collection on the American Photo blog. Their curated archive shows how seemingly simple images can be used to tell an important story.
Please Excuse the Mess
Please Excuse the Mess is a unique collection of eye-catching photographs. The images don’t seem to keep to a single theme, which makes them interesting and worth a look. Gather some inspiration from the eclectic mix of images in this archive.
Kyle Thompson
Kyle Thompson is a 25-year old Portland, Oregon-based photographer. Many of the images in this blog are self-portraits. Kyle often answers questions, so feel free to ask him about his work or peruse the FAQ section on his blog to learn more about his camera equipment and editing style.
On Off Up Down
This blog is a portfolio of the Halifax-based artist Nick Wilkinson. His work mainly focuses on editorial and portrait pieces. Many of his images are black and white and showcase how to tell a story with everyday objects and locations.
Josh Hedge
Josh Hedge is a 27-year old self-taught photographer and author based in Australia. Other self-taught photographers will enjoy following his blog for motivation and inspiration. The main themes of his work center on nature, animals, and travel.
JW Photo Diary
Johnathan Wykes is a UK photographer whose portfolio is featured in the blog, JW Photo Diary. In this blog, you will see examples of fashion photography, portraits, and street captures. Wykes has a distinct style that new photographers can learn from. His portfolio shows that you can create a signature look that connects your work without making each image look exactly the same.
Photographers on Tumblr
If you don’t want to follow a bunch of different Tumblr photography blogs, consider following a curated blog like Photographers on Tumblr. This account pulls the most interesting and captivating original images from a variety of photography accounts. Following this account is a great way to find new photographs and gain inspiration from many unique sources.
Boohwanj
If you are interested in nature photography, Boohwanj is a great account to connect with. The photography in this portfolio is compelling and crisp. The artist also offers an “ask” section on their blog so you can try to engage with the photographer and learn from their experiences.
Daniel Casson
Daniel Casson is a freelance photographer who began his photography career on Instagram. His work quickly attracted thousands of followers and today he works for a variety of notable brands including Land Rover, UK National Lottery, and Dominos. Follow his work on his blog or reach out with a question to learn tips from the photographer.
Takashi Yasui
Takashi Yasui is a Tokyo-based lifestyle photographer. He uses his images to tell a story about daily life in Japan today. He often focuses on the gritty and interesting aspects of city life. Other photographers can follow his blog to gain inspiration for their own lifestyle shots.
RiverWind-Photography
RiverWind-Photography is a collection of original nature images inspired by the famous American photographer Eliot Porter. These images mainly focus on the Pacific Northwest. Other nature photographers might enjoy browsing this portfolio for inspiration or connecting with the photographer through their blog for advice or mutual knowledge-sharing.
Freddie Ardley
Freddie Ardley is a landscape, portrait and fine art photographer. His work is inspired by the “incredible diversity of landscapes on Earth.” Ardley works as a staff photographer for Citizen Magazine and his blog showcases his unique and whimsical style.
Xuebing Du
The photographer Xuebing Du explains that they “explore the beauty of nature by emphasizing texture, light, and color.” You can explore their portfolio to get a glimpse at the impressive and interesting way the artist captures vibrant scenes in nature. This is a great blog to follow if you want to test your creativity and learn how to push the boundaries of light and color.
Reflections
Reflections is the blog of Berlin-based photographer Olaf Meyer. He regularly posts interesting scenes of the outdoors, so this is a great follow for anyone looking to build their own nature photography skills. His blog features an “ask me anything” section, so feel free to reach out to connect with this artist.
Nature-Hiking
Robert is a 26-year old Amsterdam-based photographer. His blog focuses on images he captures during summer backcountry hiking trips. If you are an aspiring photographer or use this as a hobby, Nature-Hiking is a great blog to follow. Robert’s work shows that you shouldn’t stop taking pictures even if it isn’t your full time job.
Swedish Landscapes
If you are interested in landscape photography, consider following the Swedish Landscapes Tumblr blog. This page is dedicated to original photographs of the changing seasons across Sweden. This photographer often notes when the photos are unedited so you can get an idea of the images they can capture without Photoshop.
Hannah Aspen Photography
Hannah Aspen is a 25-year old photographer with a background in the fashion industry. By “drawing inspiration from fine art, music and poetry, she hopes to unveil pieces of her dream world in her images.” If you are interested in landscape or editorial photography, this is a great blog to follow. She also offers an “ask me anything” section so you can learn more about her style and inspiration.
Street Photographers on Tumblr
If you are interested in street photography, check out this collection. This blog is dedicated to reblogging the best street photography across Tumblr. By following Street Photographers on Tumblr, you can see the best street photography images without needing to follow multiple artists.
Sam Shatsky
Sam Shatsky is a self-taught adventure photographer from the Pacific Northwest. His work “focuses on the unconventional side of photography, creating unique and abstract travel scenery focusing on a wide range of subjects, compositions and environments.” By following his blog, you will find inspiration for moody and edgy shots of nature.
Yuji Hirai
Yuji Hirai is an Osaka-based photographer who focuses on travel and lifestyle shots. He uses his work to attract overseas visitors to travel to Japan. His blog is a great example of how you can use photographs to capture a feeling and inspire action.
Uwhe-arts
This blog is the portfolio of German photographer Uwe Heinze. As you scroll through his collection, you will get a feel for the interesting perspective of this landscape and nature photographer. Following photographers who offer many different styles can help you expand your own perspective.
Steven Scarcello
Steven Scarcello is a landscape photographer with an impressive portfolio. His work mainly focuses on rugged scenes. If you are looking to capture natural vistas, follow his blog for inspiration on framing the wilderness.
Good Morning, Hypocrite
Vinnie is a pilot who also captures interesting scenes on his travels. Use the “ask me anything” section to learn how he captures his shots and where he finds inspiration. His Good Morning, Hypocrite portfolio is mainly focused on nature and landscape photography.
Kelsey Lorene
Kelsey Lorene uses both a camera and her iPhone to capture the images on her blog. Her work shows that black and white photographs can be used to emphasize the story behind the image. Browse her portfolio for inspiration or use the “ask” section to learn more about her work.
El Oso Con Botas
Breaking away from the landscape and portrait photography we’ve focused on so far, this blog showcases compelling food photography. Scroll through the archive of El Oso Con Botas to find inspiration for staging and capturing images of food that make you want to reach through the image and take a bite.
Toma EvsuVdo
Toma is a Russian-based photographer who specializes in food, portraits, and travel. If you also don’t want to box your own photography into one category, this is an inspiring blog to follow.
Rachel Anthoney
Rachel is a semi-amateur photographer who enjoys capturing nature and exterior shots. She offers a portfolio with the story behind each image, which is a great resource for learning about her captures. Connect with the photographer to learn even more about her style.
Ikinuki
The blog Ikinuki describes itself as “day-to-day ordinary” images. But as you scroll through the portfolio, you will soon realize that the ordinary can still make extraordinary shots. Use this blog to remind yourself that great images can come from anywhere.
PWH3
PWH3 focuses his work on the streets of New York. PHW3 is very transparent about his work. He explains, “I have used a variety of cameras over the years and still use different cameras for different situations. Depending on where I’m going, I’ll bring along a Lumix GX1, Lumix G3 or an Olympus EM-10. I also use a Nikon D5100 and a Nikon D90.” He also mentions that he enjoys editing his images and this is a great blog to follow if you want inspiration for the post-processing side of photography.
With Wild
With Wild is a blog that focuses on nature photography. Use the “ask me anything” tab to ask the photographer questions about how they capture the perfect shot of animals and other natural scenes.
Claudio Blanc
Caludio Blanc captures images of daily life in Buenos Aires. Many of the images are black and white. Browse the portfolio for inspiration on capturing your own interesting images of seemingly ordinary tasks.
Dithymy&Karen
This blog is a collection of the original photography by Wanwisa Hernandez. Follow this blog to see images of nature, animals, and portraits. Or, ask the photographer questions about their work to help improve your own skills.
Expand Your Photography Inspiration
Feeling inspired to launch your photography career or expand your hobby? Browse the Grid50 marketplace to find the photography and video gear you need to get going! We also offer a selection of resources on photography tips and tricks to help you expand your skills.
101 Photography Hacks, Tips & Tricks
101 Photography Hacks, Tips, & Tricks
One of the best things about photography is how easy it is to get creative, and the opportunities are endless. Buying equipment to produce specific shots can get expensive, but luckily there are tons of cheap and easy DIY hacks to help.
To get you started, this article covers over 100+ different DIY tricks, tips, and hacks you can use to up your photography game.
Read on or use the links below to “jump” to the section you’d like to check out:
- DIY Photography Lighting
- DIY Flash Diffusers
- DIY Backdrop Ideas
- Camera Lens Hacks
- Cool Photography Effects
- DIY Camera Rigs
- Cool Photography Props
- Everything Else
DIY Photography Lighting Hacks & Tricks
1. Make a Cardboard Light Stencil
Image via Fstoppers
This quick hack uses materials you probably already have laying around at home: a cardboard box, print out shape, glue, Xacto knife, and colored wax paper. Pick your shape, cut it out, and start snapping some cool shots.
2. Use Glow Sticks For Long Exposure
Image via JENerationDIY
All you need for this hack is a few glow sticks, which you can usually pick up at any store
for $1, a model, and a dark room!
3. Use Steel Wool and Fire for Long Exposure
Image via PeterMcKinnon
For a more challenging and bigger long exposure shot, using steel wool and fire can result in jaw-dropping photos. Be careful though, this hack can be a bit dangerous, so be sure to use an open area and protective gloves if you want to attempt these shots.
4. Create a Makeshift Softbox Using a Shower Curtain
Image via COOPH
This trick is a great option for a DIY soft light. All you need is a shower curtain, which you probably already have or can easily grab at the store, something to hang the curtain, a bright light.
5. Make Custom Bokeh Shapes
Image via How About Orange
This hack is super simple for those wanting to explore the world of Bokeh. Pick your shape, connect your DIY tube to your lens with a low aperture setting, and have fun shooting.
Pro Tip: Work on adjusting your focus and lens to get different styles and Bokeh effects.
6. Create a Reflective Card Using Aluminum Foil & Cardboard
Image via DIYProjects
Grab a piece of cardboard you probably have laying around and wrap it evenly in tin foil. The easiest DIY reflector in under 5 minutes!
7. Create a Beauty Dish Using an Aluminum Roasting Pan
Image via DIY Photography
Another simple lighting trick: grab an aluminum turkey-roasting pan, a lambency diffuser (you can even DIY one with this trick), and a colored lid for the diffuser. A few short steps and you’ll be on your way to perfectly lit model shots!
8. Create a DIY Light Table Using Cardboard
A great prop for product photos. Just grab a cardboard box, some tape, and start putting together this super cool light table.
DIY Flash Diffusers
9. Coffee Filter Light Diffuser
Image via Sixth Bloom
Here’s for all the coffee drinkers out there! Simply grab an extra filter and a rubber band to make this flash diffuser. It’s so easy you can even do it before you’ve had your daily caffeine intake.
10. Use a balloon for flash diffusion
Image via Digital Trends
Low on coffee filters? No worries, a white balloon works just as well. Grab your balloon, blow it up, and hold it in front of your pop-up flash for this quick flash diffusion trick.
11. Create a Light Snoot Using a Pringles Can
Image via Story Blend
This trick might give you an excuse to finish an entire can of Pringles in one sitting, but it’s also super easy for getting more focused lighting in your shots. Just place the can over the flash, and you’re good to go.
12. Build a DIY Flash Diffuser Using a Film Container
Image via Lomography
This hack makes a quick flash diffuser while giving you a great way to repurpose your film containers. Just cut the film container to fit your pop-up flash, and you’ll be ready to start shooting.
13. Bounce Your Flash Using a Business Card
Image via DIY Photography
This trick is great for a quick way to bounce your flash. Just attach your business card to your pop-up flash, and you’ll be amazed at the difference in lighting.
14. Build a Ring Flash
Image via Flickr
This hack requires a bit more craftsmanship, but gives some great results. Using a plastic bowl, some foil, and your camera’s pop-up flash, follow the steps and you’ll be ready to snap shots with this flash ring.
15. Use a Paper Plate as a Beauty Dish
Image via DIY Photography
All you need is a paper bowl that you probably can find in your kitchen. It won’t achieve the exact same look as a beauty dish, but it’ll certainly work as a quick DIY hack to modify your lighting.
16. Create a Flash Diffuser Using a Milk Carton
Image via Techradar
Got milk? Seriously, that’s pretty much the only thing you’ll need to make this flash diffuser. All you have to do is cut out the milk jug handle and trim it to the size of your flash!
17. Build a DIY Reflector Using PVC
Image via Flickr
If you have extra PVC pipe, this is a cool hack to try. Attach your flash to the PVC pipe and watch as it bounces off the reflector to help diffuse the light.
18. Create a Flash Grid
Image via Strobist
This can be done easily with a piece of honeycomb cardboard and a rubber band. Look around any packages or boxes you’ve gotten recently, and you’ll probably be able to pull this hack off without spending any money.
19. Create a Flash Bounce
Image via Instructables
Just grab some cardboard and a cheap mirror, and you’ve got a super easy DIY bounce flash.
20. Create a DIY Flash Diffuser Using Airline Barf Bags
Image via Digital Photography School
If you are the travelling type, you may have this trick laying around in your unpacked suitcases. Slip an airline barf bag (or any white bag) over your flash for an instant diffuser.
21. Use a Cigarette Pack as a Flash Diffuser
Image via Instructables
If you have an empty box of cigarettes laying around (or if smoking isn’t your thing, any box around the same size) slip it over your flash and open the top for quick diffusion.
22. Velcro and Foam Flash Booster
Image via TipsDIY
This hack allows you to use foam and velcro to focus your flash to areas you directly want to highlight in your photos. It’s cheap and easy to make!
DIY Backdrop Ideas
23. Build Your Own Lightbox Using Poster Board
Image via Techradar
So easy! Just tape a sheet of paper over a well-lit window and place your subject in front. There’s no hassle to get some quality product shots, so just be sure to adjust your Exposure Compensation accordingly.
24. Use Wallpaper as a Backdrop
Image via MrsBeachBride
A super simple way to get a great backdrop. Just find a wall with cool paper and start snapping!
25. Fake a Backdrop Using Your Laptop
Image via Photography Juice
Pressed for time to get some product pictures or maybe just not sure what to use as a background? No worries, just pull up an image of your choosing on your laptop and start snapping.
26. Build a Lightbox Using Cardboard
Image via Maeling Designs
This trick may take a bit of time to make, but it’s totally worth it. Lightboxes can be expensive, but if you have a box, some tape, and tissue paper, you can make one yourself. Just follow the steps above, and you’ll be ready to experiment with the lighting of your new box in no time!
27. Create a Portable Seamless White Background
Image via Fstoppers
This trick is great for getting the perfect seamless background in your product pictures. Simply grab some poster board, sweep the board, and hold it up using two clamps. Seamless and painless!
28. Create a Collapsible Light Box
Image via Instructables
For those looking to save space, this collapsible DIY lightbox may be the better option. All you need is some foam core and an exacto knife to get started.
29. Add Bokeh Using Tinfoil
Image via COOPH
A super quick way to create silver bokeh using an item most likely in your kitchen drawers right now. Add a mirror under the item you’re shooting, and you’ll be ready to test out your newest bokeh creation.
30. Create a Textured Background Using a Cloth
Image via Fstoppers
Using a cloth is a super easy way to add some texture to your background. This is great for product pictures when you want something a little more interesting than the plain white background, and using the sweep technique will keep the seamless look.
31. Create backdrops using your TV
Image via Grafdom
Similar to using your computer screen, this trick allows you to have a bigger backdrop for your photo.
32. Try a black tile for your product photography
Image via Expert Photography
Try using a black backdrop with a black tile underneath your product for a crisp image with an interesting reflection. It’ll add to any simple product picture without being too distracting.
33. Use trees or bushes for a backdrop
Image via DIY Joy
Have your model stand in front of trees or bushes to create an immersive nature photo.
Camera Lens Hacks
34. Use a Magnifying Glass for Macro Photography
Image via Digital Photography School
Thinking about trying macrophotography, but don’t have a lens for it yet? Try it out with a magnifying glass to get those up close shots. You can even leave the magnifying glass in the frame for a unique picture
35. Remove Your Lens for a Macro Effect
Image via Improve Photography
This hack is pretty neat, and super easy to test out. All you have to do to shoot in macro is take off your lens and hold it in front of the camera. This only works in manual mode, and using a tripod will help keep the images sharp.
36. Use a Beer Cozy to Protect Your Lenses
Image via Digital Photography School
Need a quick and easy way to protect your lenses while travelling or doing a shoot? Slide them in a beer cozy, and they’ll be good to go.
37. Use a Wine Rack to Store Your Lenses
Image via Petapixel
If you are looking to organize all of the lenses you have laying around, this hack is perfect for you. Any wine rack will work, and you can store multiple lenses on it.
38. Use Pantry Shelves to Store Lenses
Image via DIY Photography
Another simple way to store your lenses safely and efficiently, just use pantry shelves. This is great if you have a lot to store and you’re trying to save space!
39. Wrist Rubber Band to Prevent Zoom Creep
Image via Lifehacker
Avoid the annoying problem of your camera lens moving due to gravity by using a wristband to prevent zoom creep.
40. Create Colored Lens Filters Using Markers
Image via My23skidoo
This DIY hack is easy and tons of fun. All you need is paper, scissors, plastic and string. Simply cut out the plastic shape and get creative by adding a design with markers.
41. Build a Macro Lens for Your Phone
Image via DHMakerBus
This hack is pretty easy, and will allow for macrophotography on your phone. All you need is an old laser pointer, a hairpin, and some tape. Just grab the focusing lens out of the laser pointer, use the hairpin to hold the lens, and attach it with tape.
42. Use a Plastic Cup for Macro Photography
Image via Petapixel
Another trick for easily exploring the world of macrophotography, and you probably have all of the materials you need already. Just grab some plastic cups from the kitchen, and tape one to your lens. This also works as a way to add soft light to your subject.
43. Build a DIY Tilt Lens
Image via Maciekpp
These instructions will teach you how to DIY your own tilt lens, so you can work with tilt-lens photography to capture some awesome pictures.
44. Use a Coffee Cup Sleeve as a Lens Hood
Image via DIY How To
Another use for your morning cup of joe. Just reuse the coffee sleeve from your cup to create a quick lens hood.
45. Create a Macro Lens Using a Toilet Paper Roll
Image via COOPH
You can try macrophotography by attaching an empty toilet paper roll to your lens and camera. Super simple with great results.
46. Create a Lens Filter Using Your Sunglasses
Image via COOPH
Use your sunglasses for a quick lens filter. Just hold them up to your lens and start shooting!
47. Create a Lens Filter Using Colored Plastic Bags
Image via COOPH
Place a few colored plastic bags around your lens for an easy hack to get the colored lens filter. This trick also adds a bit of a soft light effect around the photo’s edges!
48. Use Drinking Glasses as a Lens Filter
Image via Wolfeye
You probably have tons of glasses in your kitchen cabinets, so give them another use by grabbing one and trying it out as a lens filter for a cool effect.
49. Create a Lens Filter Using Markers & Plastic
Image via Olivier Schmidt
This crafty hack adds soft light and color to your shots easily. Just place the plastic over your lens, use a marker for your desired color, and start snapping those shots.
50. Use Reading Glasses for Macro Photography
Image via GadgetHacks
If you have a pair of reading glasses lying around, or you can buy a cheap pair at any store, you can use one of the lenses over your camera lens for instant macrophotography.
Cool Photography Effects
51. Window Blinds Effect
Image via List AKA
This is an easy way to create a window blind effect if you don’t actually have window blinds. Just use a piece of paper, cut “blinds” into the piece, and hold it up to the light to create the desired effect.
52. Multi Person Illusion
Image via 5-minute Crafts
Create the illusion of multiple people using only one model by utilizing the panorama feature on an iPhone. Just start on one side, have your model run to the next spot once the shot has moved past them, and you’ll have a multiple person picture.
53. Use Cloth to Achieve a Soft-Focus Effect
Image via Artfido
Another quick and easy way to create a soft focus, just wrap a piece of cloth around your lens to achieve the desired effect.
54. Use a Smartphone to Create a Reflection Effect
Image via My Modern Met
All you need for this hack is your smartphone! Place it at the base of your camera lens, and your images will have a reflection effect to create fantastical issues.
55. Add a Film Burn Effect Using a Match
Image via Bored Panda
This simple trick will create the illusion of film burn on your images. Just light a match and hold it in front of your lens while shooting.
56. Use a Flashlight to Add a Lens Flare
Image via Peter McKinnon
By bouncing the light of a small flashlight off your lens, you’ll create an easy lens flare effect on your images. You can even try this with the flashlight on your phone, so you don’t have to worry about carrying around extra equipment.
57. Create a “Haze Effect” Using a Sandwich Bag
Image via Petapixel
Create a simple hazy look for your photos using a plastic sandwich bag. Slide the bag around the edges of your camera lens, and you’ll achieve this effect easily.
58. Create a Soft Focus Lens Using Clear Plastic & Vaseline
Image via Free People
Using a piece of clear plastic and vaseline, you can create a soft focus lens that allows you to get creative with the design. Spread vaseline onto your plastic and use in front of your lens while shooting. The more vaseline in one area, the more opaque the outcome will be, so get creative with the different effects this can make!
59. Create a Lens Flare Using a CD
Image via Bored Panda
You can create a lens flare using a CD to reflect the light back into your images at different angles. For best results, don’t forget to remove your lens hood before trying this out.
60. Create a “Grid Effect” Using a Tea Strainer
You can create grid shadows using an old tea strainer. Just hold the strainer at different levels of light in front of your subject to create this shadow effect.
61. DIY Soft-Focus Filter With Pantyhose
Image via Giga
Using pantyhose, black or nude colors are recommended, you can achieve a soft-focus filter by attaching the pantyhose to your lens with a rubber band.
62. Use a Plastic Bag to Achieve a Softbox Effect
Image via Bored Panda
You probably have tons of plastic grocery bags lying around your house, so make use of them by trying out this quick hack. Tie a bag by it’s handles and simply hold it in front of your flash to achieve an easy soft-box effect.
63. Create a Bokeh Effect Using Battery Powered Lights
Image via SLR Lounge
DIY this Bokeh effect by using battery powered string lights. The lights are lightweight and small enough to travel with you on shoots, plus their flexibility can give you endless possibilities for pictures.
64. Use Fishing Wire to Create a Lens Flare
Image via Expert Photography
By attaching fishing wire to your lens, you’ll be able to create a lens flare in your photos. The lines won’t actually show up, and you’ll be able to see the effect created by the light hitting the wire and spreading out across the image.
DIY Camera Rigs
65. String Tripod
Image via Wix
This trick helps eliminate camera shake and is way easier to work with if you don’t want to carry around a bulky tripod. Using a bolt, string, and a washer, you can DIY this rig in a matter of minutes. Just tie a long piece of string to the bolt on one end and the washer on the other, and attach the bolt to the bottom of your camera where you would typically screw in a tripod mount.
Whenever you’re ready to start shooting, simply step on the washer and pull the camera up to create tension.
66. Make a Macro Photography Lighting Rig for Compact Cameras
Image via Wildlife Gadget Man
This trick requires some handy work, but is definitely worth the effort. Using two LED desk lamps and following a few steps, you’ll have a lighting rig for your macro photography ready to go.
67. Make your Gorilla Pod Magnetic
Image via Petapixel
This trick can make your already handy Gorillapod even more useful. Using magnets that fit inside the feet of your Gorillapod, carefully drill a hole and place the magnets inside. Although, it’s important to know this trick will void the warranty on your Gorillapod.
68. Build a Tripod Using a Hand Clamp
Image via Lifehacker
This hack is quick and easy if you have the right tools to try it out. Just attach your camera with a screw to a hand clamp, and then use the hand clamp to position the camera wherever you’d like.
69. Make a Flexible Selfie Stick
Image via Petapixel
This hack is great for creating a flexible selfie stick that works with cameras, not just smartphones. This can also act as a stand-in for any flexible tripod, so follow the steps and get super creative with your shots.
70. Use a Lamp as a Tripod
Image via Improve Photography
Not as practical as some of the tricks on this list, this hack makes use of a lamp instead of a tripod. If you’re at a party and want to take a group picture while simultaneously impressing your guests, this is a cool hack to try. Simply remove the lampshade, and screw your camera where you’d typically place it on a tripod.
71. Use a Bag of Lentils as a Makeshift Tripod
Image via Digital Camera World
This hack is a crafty way to reduce camera shake, especially when using long lenses. With an old pair of jeans, a bag of lentils, and a little bit of sewing, you’ll have a pretty unique tool to use for camera stabilizing.
72. Create a Beanbag Tripod
Image via Do It Yourself Divas
Similar to the hack above, this bean bag acts as a tripod and stabilizer for your camera. Your sewing skills don’t have to be perfect to get to work on this easy bean bag, and it’ll provide quick support for your camera during shoots.
73. Create a DIY Flash Mount Using a GPS Holder
Image via DIY Photography
This hack is pretty simple to try, simply place your flash into a GPS holder and start shooting!
74. DIY Tripod Umbrella Holder
Image via DIY Joy
Another quick hack for shooting in the rain! This is better for light rain, and it’ll protect you and your camera easily.
75. Stabilize Your Camera With a Tennis Ball
Image via Lifehacker
Attach a tennis ball to the tripod area of your camera for an instant stabilizer. The weight of the tennis ball will reduce camera shake without getting too much in the way while shooting.
76. Makeshift Smartphone Tripod
Image via Scoop Whoop
Make a quick and easy tripod for your smartphone to get the perfect Instagram shot. All you need is two binder clips and a small piece of cardboard.
77. Use Cardboard to Get Easy Overhead Shots
Image via Hungry Panda
This trick works best with a smartphone and a remote clicker. Using a piece of cardboard and tape, you’ll be able to get the coolest overhead shots hands-free.
Cool Photography Props
78. Use a Smoke Emitter in the Background
Image via Picture Correct
Using a smoke emitter can add some interesting vibes to your pictures. This prop can be used for all kinds of shoots, so feel free to get creative with it.
79. Try Out a Crystal Ball
Image via Picture Correct
Using a crystal ball can give you really cool results pretty easily. This prop flips the scene, which adds something interesting for the viewer to look at.
80. Try Out a Sun Catcher
Image via Picture Correct
If you want to add cool light effects to your photos, try out a sun catcher. This works similarly to a prism to break up the light rays, and it delivers awesome results.
81. DIY Bounce Wall
Image via Expert Photography
Bounce your flash with this cheap DIY bounce wall. This hack is great for creating soft light to your photos.
82. Build a “Ring of Fire” Using Wire & Sparklers
Image via COOPH
Sparklers are an easy prop to add cool effects to your photos. This trick shows you how to create a “ring of fire” using sparklers, which gives the effect of fire without the danger.
83. Add Steam Using a Simple Steamer
Image via Nicolesy Blog
This trick is great for any foodie or product photographer. Easily add steam to your pictures by using a simple steamer that’s out of the shot.
84. Use Tinsel as a Prop
Image via Expert Photography
Grab some of your holiday tinsel and hold it up to your camera lens to reflect the light for some really cool effects.
85. Shoot Through a Window for Softer Light
Image via Expert Photography
Use a window for portrait photography if you want softer light and possibly some texture from reflections!
86. Try Using Lace in Your Self-Portraits
Image via Bored Panda
Use lace over your subject and camera to add a simple dreamy effect with interesting shadows.
87. Use a Hair Dryer to Add a Wind Effect to Hair
Image via Bored Panda
Have your model, or an extra person, hold a hairdryer out of the shot to DIY the blown out hair look.
88. Use a Spray Bottle
Image via SLR Lounge
All you need for this trick is a spray bottle and some water. Spray a bit of water into your shot, and let the light do the rest.
89. Create a Reflective Photo With a Mirror
Image via Hungry Panda
Use a mirror with your model to create a unique shot. Just find an interesting scene for the mirror to reflect and snap your pictures.
90. Shoot Through an Object to Force Perspective
Image via Petapixel
Using cylindrical items to shoot through can force a different perspective and has some seriously unique outcomes. By using a plant pot and dirt, this example makes it seem as if the photo was taken from the hole being dug.
91. Use Plexiglass to Capture Water Shots
Image via Petapixel
By holding a big sheet of plexiglass in front of your camera, you can capture some intense water shots without worrying about damaging your equipment or obscuring the shot.
92. Use Colored Beads for Bokeh Effect
Image via Get Fractals
Pick up some cheap plastic beaded necklaces for your next shoot, and you’ll be able to capture their colored reflections in your picture to mimic a Bokeh effect.
Everything Else
93. Use Paracord to Make a Wrist Strap
Image via Digital Photography School
If you’re not a big fan of camera straps, or need something a bit smaller, you can use paracord as a wrist strap. It’s durable and easy to attach!
94.Use a PEZ Dispenser as a Hot Shoe Attachment for Kids
Image via Improve Photography
Kids can be a tough subject to shoot, but adding something to your camera for them to focus on can be a huge help. A PEZ dispenser fits on your camera’s hot shoe, and as a bonus, you can give out the candy to kids when they’re behaving.
95. Use a Hands-Free Headset as a Camera Remote
Image via Instructables
By following these simple steps, you can easily turn a $3 hands-free headset into a camera remote.
96. Protect Your Camera From the Rain Using a Ziploc Bag
Image via Purple Summit
Shooting in the rain can pose some problems, but by using a Ziploc bag and gaffer tape, you can protect your camera during rainy shoots. Keep in mind this doesn’t completely waterproof your camera, however, so it’s best to use this trick in light rain instead of a downpour.
97. Create a Rain Guard Using a CD Spindle (Case)
Image via Lifehacker
Another way to protect your camera from rain is using a CD spindle and a plastic bag. Cut out the spindle to the size of your lens and attach it with gaffer tape. Protecting your camera during rainy shoots has never been easier.
98. Use a Fish Tank as an Underwater Housing Case
Image via The Buff Nerds
This trick allows you to take cool underwater shots without ruining your camera. Using a fish tank and following the instructions will have you ready to take your shoots to the next level.
99. Remove Tourists From Your Photos
Image via Bored Panda
Want to get beautiful scenic shots, but tourists keep getting in the way? Here’s a solution to the problem many travel photographers face every day. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have great shots with no tourists.
100. Create a Slider Using a Towel
Image via Sheldon Evans
Using a towel can help you get a smooth slide in any video. Just put your towel on a flat surface, and place your camera on the towel. Once you start filming, drag the towel across the surface for a quick DIY slider.
101. Create a Timelapse Using an Egg Timer
Image via TWiT Tech Podcast Network
This video shows you a simple way to use a GoPro and an egg timer to create a timelapse. Just follow the steps to try out this cool trick.
Now Get Out & Start Shooting!
With all of these DIY hacks to try, it’s time to get excited and start planning your next shoots. These new ideas are a sure way to get the creativity flowing, but it’s important to know you don’t have to DIY everything just to keep photography cheap.
Grid50 is here to make buying (and selling) camera gear easy and affordable, so if you need a new lens or rig for any of these projects, be sure to check out the Grid50 marketplace.
What are some of your favorite photography hacks? Let us know in the comments below!
Photography Terms Glossary
Photography Terms Glossary
Whether you’re new to photography or just looking to find the meaning of a particular photography term you’re unclear on, this glossary covers some of the most popular and commonly used terms used by photographers, providing an in-depth definition and resources you can follow to learn more about that specific topic.
To quickly find the term you’re looking for, use the links below to “jump” to the following letter:
A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
Aperture
You can simply refer to aperture as the size of the lens opening. Think about it, much like a window; the larger the window, the more light it will let in. The same goes for a camera lens, the wider the opening, the more light it will let in, resulting in a brighter photograph and vice versa.
Image via B&H Photo Video
Aperture is measured using f-stops, which is a measure of the diameter of the lens opening. The larger the reading, the narrower the aperture. For instance, f/1.8 is wider than f/22. If you want a narrow focus resulting in a crisper image, you should use a higher f-stop (ex. f/8, f/11, f/22, etc.). A lower f-stop will let in more light, which can be useful in low-light situations or night photography.
Typical cameras lenses will have a minimum and maximum aperture of f/1.8 and f/22. The more expensive types of cameras will have a maximum of f/1.4 or larger. You will find such cameras very useful where the light conditions are low.
Recommended Resources:
- “Aperture in Photography Defined” – B&H Photo
- “Understanding Aperture in Photography” – Photography Life
- “The Ultimate Guide to Learning Photography: What Is Aperture?” – Creative Live
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio is the ratio of the height to the width. The camera sensors will determine the dimensions, but you can alter them in post-processing or in your camera settings. The typical ratio is 3:2 and 4:3.
Image via Expert Photography
If you are, for example, taking pictures for Instagram, you will go with 4:5 due to the multiple cropping. Many modern digital cameras will give you the option of 4:3, 3:2, or 16:9.
Recommended Resources:
- “Aspect Ratio: Why It’s Important in Photography” – Pretty Presets
- “A Beginner’s Guide to Aspect Ratio” – Canva
- “How Do Aspect Ratios Affect Your Photographs?” – Expert Photography
Button Focus
You probably already know that when you half-press the shutter button, your camera will autofocus. However, in some situations, you will want to take a photograph without the autofocus function. You can use back button focus in this scenario:
Image via ApogeePhoto
You can find the button on the back of your camera and will use it to focus on the image you want to photograph. You must, however, first disable the out-of-focus from the shutter button.
Depending on the specific camera you have, it will come as default on the AF-On button. Many professionals actually prefer to use the back-button focus rather than to rely on the autofocus.
Recommended Resources:
- “Back Button Focus Settings” – Melissa Kill
- “Back Button Focus Will Change The Way You Use Your Camera” – Creative Life
- “Improve Your Focus Using the Back Button Focus” – Apogee Photo
Bokeh
Bokeh refers to the rendering or visual quality of the out-of-focus areas in an image. It’s often an aesthetic quality that photographers aim for, and you can typically increase the amount of bokeh when zooming in on a subject using a zoom-lens.
Image via Photography Life
Recommended Resources:
- “How to Create Bokeh” – Nikon
- “Step by Step Guide to Beautiful Bokeh” – Expert Photography
- “The Ultimate Guide to Bokeh” – fStoppers
Bracketing
Bracketing refers to the situation where you take a series of pictures in a sequence but with some variations. For example, you could use different shutter speeds to take multiple images with varying levels of brightness, which is known as exposure bracketing.
Image via We Are So Photo
Most cameras have a bracketing menu that will allow you to capture bracketed pictures in a row automatically.
In focus bracketing, your aim is to shoot sequential images at different distances. Some of the settings for bracketing include ⅓, ½, and full-stop increments. The advantage of bracketing is that you ensure that you capture the image in the right exposure.
Recommended Resources:
- “Bracketing Explained: What You Need to Know About Maximizing Detail” – TechRadar
- “Bracketing – What Is It and What to do with the Images?” – Digital Photography School
- “When to Use Bracketing for the Best Results” – Photography Life
Burst Mode
With burst mode, you can continue snapping photos as long as you hold down the button. However, you can only continue to take pictures until the buffer is full. The speed will depend on the type of camera you have and is measured in with the frames-per-second (FPS). For example, 6 FPS would mean you can snap 6 images per second.
Image via How-To Geeks
Burst mode can be a great option for capturing quick moving objects, making it perfect for nature or sports photography.
Recommended Resources:
- “Burst Mode: What It Is and How to Use It” – Lifewire
- “How To Use Burst Mode for Perfectly-Timed Shots” – Expert Photography
- “Shooting in Burst Mode” – Digital Photo Secrets
Candid
Candid photography is when you take a picture without the subject posing for it. You will find many photographers using candid portraits for social occasions such as weddings, events, and birthdays.
Image via Pexels
Recommended Resources:
- “What is Candid Photography?” – Photography Talk
- “11 Tips for Better Candid Photography” – Digital Photography
- “10 Tips for Becoming a Candid Photography Pro” – Expert Photography
Card Reader
A card reader is a device that will allow you to transfer data from your camera memory card to your external storage on your computer or external hard drive.
Image via Pexels
Recommended Resources:
- “The Best Memory Card Readers on the Market” – Popular Photography
- “The Best Memory Card Readers: Get Your Images on to Your Computer the Easy Way” -Digital Camera World
- “The Best Memory Card Readers for Photography and Video” – Shutterstock
Chimping
You may have observed some photographers constantly check the camera display every time they take a single shot. It is especially prevalent among beginners. This act is sometimes referred to as “chimping” because photographers will look at their camera while saying “Ooh, ooh, ooh!” like a chimpanzee.
Image via The Discerning Photographer
Recommended Resources:
- “Pros and Cons of Chimping – What is it and How it Can Hurt or Help You?” – Digital Photography
- “Three Main Reasons to Stop Chimping Right Now” – DIY Photography
- “Is Chimping in Photography Good or Bad?” – Photography Life
Composition
Composition is how you arrange the elements in your photograph. Some features in the picture will immediately attract more attention and therefore have more visual weight. The correct arrangement of the visual weight will determine the kind of image you take. The purpose of the picture will determine the composition.
Image via PetaPixel
Recommended Resources:
- “20 Composition techniques That Will Improve Your Photos” – Petapixel
- “6 Essential Composition Rules You Need to Know” – Shutterstock
- “Learning Composition in Photography- Practical Guide” – Photo Traces
Contrast
Contrast is the difference between light and shadows in an image. When there is high contrast, you get an emphasis on the variation, thus stronger texture and color. Low contrast pictures, on the other hand, may look dull in appearance.
Image via Expert Photography
Recommended Resources:
- “Contrast in Photography” – Picture Correct
- “What is Contrast in Photography and How to Use it Correctly” – Expert Photography
- “Low Contrast Photography and How to Correct it in Post-Production” – Petapixel
Depth of Field (DOF)
When you focus your camera on a particular image, you will see that some of the objects are very close, while others are very far away. The distance between the foreground and background is the Depth of Field (DOF).
The aperture and distance to the subject will determine the DOF. You can control the DOF by increasing or narrowing the aperture. The wider the aperture, the narrower the DOF.
Image via Expert Photography
Recommended Resources:
- “What is Depth of Field?” – Digital Camera World
- “Understand Depth of Field (And Its Creative Uses!)” – Expert Photography
- “Understanding Depth of Field- A Beginner’s Guide” – Photography Life
Diaphragm
The diaphragm is the device that will control the aperture. Most modern DSLR cameras have an iris diaphragm that allows you to increase or decrease the aperture due to the overlapping blades.
Recommended Resources:
- “Definition Diaphragm”– Photokonnexion
- “How the Diaphragm In Photography Works”– Photographer Agency
- “Understanding Camera Exposure” – Exposure guide
DSLR Cameras
Digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) are some of the most popular cameras in the market today. You get a digital sensor and reflex mirror, which will direct light to the optical viewfinder from the lens.
Image via Precision Camera & Video
Recommended Resources:
- “What is a DSLR Camera and How Is It Different From Mirrorless?” – Digital Trends
- “What Makes a DSLR Better Than Other Cameras?” – Science ABC
- “Best DSLR Camera 2019: Best Cameras to Suit All Budgets” – Tech Radar
Dynamic Range
The dynamic range is the difference between the darkest and lightest values in an image, and this term is usually used in reference to a camera’s ability.
Image via How-To Geek
This is measured in “stops.” Dynamic range is most effective when taking photos with high contrast, and cameras with a higher dynamic range will produce the most detailed pictures.
Recommended Resources:
- “Dynamic Range Photography Explained” – Adorama
- “What is Dynamic Range in Photography?” – How-To Geek
- “Dynamic Range Explained” – B&H
Exposure
Exposure refers to how much light reaches the camera sensor. It determines how bright or dark the final image is. Shutter speed, ISO, and aperture determine the exposure. You can also specify the exposure levels manually, automatically, or through the use of shutter and aperture priority.
Image via Exposure Guide
Recommended Resources:
- “The Exposure Triangle: A Beginner’s Guide” – Photography Life
- “Exposure Guide” – Exposure Guide
- “Step-by-Step Guide to Long Exposure Photography” – Digital Photography School
Exposure Compensation
Exposure compensation is a setting that allows the camera to brighten or darken the image, depending on your settings. For example, if you are taking a picture and you realize that the light is too bright, you can input negative exposure compensation to take a darker photo. The typical camera will allow the use of compensation of 1/2, 1/3, or full-stop increments.
Image via REI
Recommended Resources:
- “What is Exposure Compensation and How to Use It” – Photography Life
- “Exposure Compensation” – Imaging Nikon
- “How to Understand Your Camera’s Exposure Compensation Feature” – Digital Photography School
F-Stop
Sometimes referred to as the F-Number, F-Stop is the ratio of the lens focal length to the diameter of the pupil. In simpler terms, F-Stop is the number your camera gives when you change the aperture. When displayed on a camera, you will see the F-Stop written as a fraction like “f/8, f/2, or f/22.” Since it is expressed in terms of fractions, and f/8 would be larger than an f/22.
Image via Expert Photography
Recommended Resources:
- “What is F-Stop and How Does It Work?” – Photography Life
- “Understanding F-Stops: How To Use F-Stops in Photography” – Master Class
- “Cheat Sheet: How To Understand F-Stops” – Digital Camera World
Filters
Filters are the attachments you put on the front or back of your camera. They impact the quality of light, which reaches your sensor while others will prevent scratches on your lenses. Typically you find filters made of plastic, resin, or glass.
Image via Camera Gear Store
Most cameras will allow you to attach the filter without any special requirements. Others will require that you have a separate mounting system to utilize them. There are different types of filters available, and one such filter is the polarizer, which will accentuate or block polarized light. You reduce the haze and reflections in your photo. Other types of filters include dark or neutral density filters, color, and graduated filters.
Recommended Resources:
- “A Beginner’s Guide to Camera Lens Filters” – Adorama
- “The Best Camera Filters for DSLRs and Mirrorless Cameras” – Digital Trends
- “Choosing a Camera Lens Filter” – Cambridge in Colour
Focal Length
The focal length, typically expressed in millimeters (mm), is a system used to measure the distance between the center of the lens and the sensor of the camera. Focal length is used to describe the angle of view of a lens, not the physical size of a lens.
Image via Nikon
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding Focal Length” – Nikon
- “What is Focal Length in Photography?” – Photography Life
- “How to Understand Focal Length (In Four Easy Steps)”– Expert Photography
Focusing
You cannot get the right picture without focusing. Many lenses will only allow you to focus on a particular distance each time while anything outside the range will lose focus.
Most cameras will give you a wide range of out-of-focus options, including single-servo versus continuous-servo AF, which will tell the camera to auto-focus on a stationary object or to move when your subject moves.
If you are taking photographs of landscapes, you will most likely use the single-servo, or if, you are capturing movement, you will most likely use the continuous option. Other options for focusing include single autofocus point, automatic autofocus points, and 3D tracking autofocus points.
Image via ShutterRunner
Recommended Resources:
- “Camera Focusing for Beginners” – Amateur Photographer
- “How Focus Works” – B&H
- “Understanding Focus in Photography” – Photography Life
GIF
A GIF or Graphic Interchange Format is an image file that you can use to create still or animated images.
Image via TwistedSifter
You get no sound, and if you code it in a certain way, you can load sequential pictures. You would typically use them for entertainment purposes, and they are a fantastic way to create memes. GIFs are 8-bit 256 colors.
Recommended Resources:
- “Everything You Need to Know About GIFs Explained in GIFs” – Mic
- “GIFs: A Simple But Powerful Communications Tool” – Explain Everything
- “What is a GIF, and How Do You Use Them?” – How-to Geek
Golden Hour (or Magic Hour)
Image via Ryan Loughlin
Sunset and sunrise photos are popular with most people who consider themselves photographers, but to capture that perfect shot, you need to be at the right place during the golden hour. This is the period right before sunset and sunrise when the sun is low on the horizon, and you get light with a red or orangish shade.
Recommended Resources:
- “Golden Hour (Photography)” – Wikipedia
- “How To Get the Most Out of Photographing at Golden Hour” – Digital Trends
- “Calculate Your Local Golden Hour” – Petapixel
High Dynamic Range (HDR)
Camera sensors cannot necessarily distinguish features in the same way the human eye can. When you are focusing on an image that has some shadows, you have the option of capturing either the image or shadow, resulting in poor exposure of the other.
You can correct this problem by creating a high dynamic range (HDR) images. It requires that you take two photographs and blend them together so that you utilize the parts with the best exposure. You will need the right software to do this, such as Photoshop. The trick to getting the right images is to take as many HDR photos as you can so that you capture the movement for easy blending.
Image via Exposure Guide
Recommended Resources:
- “What is HDR Photography?” – Digital Trends
- “HDR Photography” – Stuck in Customs
- “10 Common HDR Photography Mistakes and How to Avoid Them” – Expert Photography
Hot Shoe
You will find the hot shoe at the top of the camera, and it allows you to mount or trigger different devices. Such devices include wireless transmitters, electronic flashes, GPS devices, standard microphones, viewfinders, and field monitors.
Image via Photokonnexion
Recommended Resources:
- “What Is The Hot Shoe? (and How You Can Use It!)” – Expert Photography
- “What is the Hotshoe?” – Improve Photography
- “What is A Hot Shoe Flash” – Shutter Muse
Hyperfocal
Hyperfocal refers to the distance where the focus provides a deeper depth of field. You will find landscape photographers using it so the scenes are as sharp as possible.
Image via Martin Bailey Photography
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding Your Camera’s Hyperfocal Distance” – Cambridge in Colour
- “Hyperfocal Distance Explained” – Photography Life
- “Understanding Hyperfocal Distance (Podcast 437)” – Martin Bailey Photography
Image Stabilization
If you do not have a very steady hand when holding your camera, you will need the image stabilization feature. The different kinds of stabilization features include emergency stabilization, which is in the lenses and will work by moving the lens elements to compensate for any movement.
Image via Premium Beat
You will also find body or IBIS stabilization that will move the sensor. Not only does it stabilize the camera, but you will also find the picture very useful in low light conditions.
Recommended Resources:
- “Image Stabilization: When to Use it and When to Turn it Off” – B&H
- “How to Stabilize Your Camera for Sharper Images”– Photography Talk
- “Easy Guide to Understanding Lens Stabilization vs. In Camera Stabilization” – Expert Photography
ISO
ISO refers to the light sensitivity levels of the camera. A camera that has ISO 100 is not sensitive to light and is excellent for daytime shooting. An ISO 3200 camera is very sensitive and is fantastic for low-light conditions. To get the right kind of exposure, you need to balance the ISO with shutter speed and aperture.
Image via Digital Photography School
Recommended Resources:
- “What is ISO? Settings in Digital Photography”– Digital Photography School
- “What is ISO?”– Digital Trends
- “What is the Best ISO to use?” – Image Maven
Jaggies
Jaggies refers to how curves or angles will appear in a digital image. They usually take the appearance of a staircase, and the number of pixels will determine their appearance. You will often find jaggies in photographs you take at lower resolving powers.
Image via Definition.net
Recommended Resources:
- “How to Avoid ‘Jaggies’: Turning on Anti-Aliasing” – Mojoprint
- “What are Jaggies?” – Techopedia
- “Aliasing: Should You Be Concerned About Jaggies?” – Photo Review
JPEG
Many people will save image files using the Joint Photographic Experts Group (JPEG). It is the default format for many photographs, but they have the main disadvantage of being heavily compressed.
You only get to see an 8-bit color, unlike other cameras that can give you up to 14-bit color. The latter will provide you with access to 16,384 shades of red, green, and blue, while the former only gives you access to 256 shades of the same. The main advantage with JPEG is that the files are small in size, and you will not have compatibility issues with many applications.
Image via Kinsta
Recommended Resources:
- “Convert Image to JPEG” – Online Utility
- “JPG vs JPEG: Understanding the Most Common Image File Format” – Kinsta
- “Pros and Cons of JPEG Image Compression”– Byte Scout
Lens Flare
When you use a mirror in the dark and have multiple sources of light on, you will get some flare due to the light bouncing off the surface of the mirror. The same situation may occur in camera lenses, although some have multiple anti-reflective coatings that reduce or minimize the reflection.
Lens flare is not always a negative thing because it can result in some pretty amazing pictures, especially where landscapes are concerned. It can interfere with the subject matter and the quality of the image. You must invest in a camera with the right kind of anti-reflective coating to take care of this problem.
Image via PictureCorrect
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding Lens Flare”– Photography Life
- “Lens Flare- Good or Bad?” – Diana Elizabeth Blog
- “Understanding Camera Lens Flare” – Cambridge in Colour
Light
Any picture you take is highly dependent on the light. That is why you see professionals carry around equipment to ensure that they get the right quality of light.
Image via DIY Photography
It is also not strange to hear a photographer insist that he or she needs to take pictures at a particular time to capture the best light. If you look at it in the broad sense, there is really nothing like good or bad light because it will depend on the type of picture you want to take.
Recommended Resources:
- “The Ultimate Guide to Learning Photography: Lighting for Beginners”– Creativelive
- “12 Tips for Indoor Natural Light Photography”– Digital Photography School
- “5 Lighting Tips to Improve Your Photography” – Picture Correct
Long Exposure
Long exposure is a technique that uses shutter speeds of more than thirty seconds to create a blurred effect on moving elements. This technique is commonly used for light or water subjects, but there are numerous other uses for it.
Image via Exposure Guide
Recommended Resources:
- “What is Long Exposure Photography?” – Creative Photographer
- “Long Exposure Photography Tips” – Exposure Guide
- “Ultimate Guide to Long Exposure Photography” – Capture Landscapes
Macro Lens
A macro lens is a lens that is optimized for taking extreme close-up shots of small subjects. The focus of a macro lens is much closer, which allows you to fill a frame while capturing as much detail as possible. Macro lenses are great for capturing product and nature images.
Image via FotoZZoom
Recommended Resources:
- “Macro Lenses” – Photography Mad
- “What is a Macro Lens? Everything You Need To Know as a Beginner” – BL Blog
- “Complete Guide to Macro Photography for Beginners” – Photography Life
- “The Ultimate Guide to Macro Photography (137 Best Tips)” – Expert Photography
Metering
There is a particular way your camera will read light, especially with regards to darkness, contrast, and brightness. It will suggest the exposure so the final picture has the right level of intensity.
Image via Matador Network
Most cameras have a default setting of mid-gray because the metering system may face some confusion when there is too much black or white in the scene. The result is white or black scenes end up being grey. It is at this time you should take advantage of exposure compensation for the right exposure.
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding Metering and Metering Modes” – Photography Life
- “A Basic Introduction to Understanding Metering Modes” – Zukus
- “Metering Mode” – Wikipedia
Megapixels
Simply put, megapixels are the resolution of the camera sensor. Expert photographers will tell you that while it is essential, the sensor size has a more significant role to play in regards to the quality of the image.
Image via Photography Life
Recommended Resources:
- “What Are Megapixels? How Many Do I Need?” – Veprit
- “An Explanation of Megapixels and How They Affect Photos” – The Spruce Crafts
- “How Many Megapixels Do You REALLY Need?” – Photo Review
Noise
Noise is the random variation in brightness or color that can sometimes result in a grainy veil that obscures details in photos. Although it’s impossible to have a picture without some noise, it’s important to note an extreme amount of noise will make any picture unusable.
Image via Photography Life
Recommended Resources:
- “Digital Noise: What is it & How to Correct It” – Cole’s Classroom
- “Noise in Photography: What it is and How to Correct It”– Capture the Atlas
- “Digital Camera Image Noise: Concept and Types” – Cambridge in Colour
Overexposure
Referring to the brightness of an image, overexposure means the image is extremely bright, or in some instances, parts of the photo are pure white.
Image via SLR Lounge
This can be used as a technique for photographers, if they want an extremely bright image, but it typically refers to an image that is brighter than it is supposed to be.
Recommended Resources:
- “15 Creative Uses of Overexposure” – Digital Photography School
- “Underexposure vs Overexposure: Everything You Need to Know”– Expert Photography
- “Photography 101: Underexposure vs Overexposure” – The Spruce Crafts
PNG
PNG stands for Portable Network Graphics. It’s a file type commonly used for web images because it creates a larger file, however, it’s not typically great for print images as the pictures may become distorted.
Image via IvanExpert
Recommended Resources:
- “JPEG vs PNG: When and Why to Use One Format Over the Other” – Digital Trends
- “Web Designer’s GUide to PNG Image Format” – WebFX
- “What is a PNG (Portable Network Graphics)?” – WhatIs.com
Panning
Panning is the continual horizontal movement of a camera scanning a moving subject. It’s used to create the feeling of motion without blurring the subject of the photo.
Image via Digital Photography School
Recommended Resources:
- “Mastering Panning- How to Photograph Moving Subjects” – Digital Photography School
- “What is Panning?” – Corel Discovery
- “6 Tips to Master Panning Photography” – Digital Photography School
Prime Lens
A prime lens is a fixed focal length, which means they are optimized to a specific focal length. Unlike a zoom lens, a prime lens generally has better optical performance with sharper images.
Image via Digital Photography School
Recommended Resources:
- “9 Things You Should Know About Using Prime Lenses” – Tech Radar
- “Prime Lens 101” – B&H
- “8 Reasons to Use a Prime Lens” – Photography Concentrate
RAW
A RAW file is an uncompressed version of an image file that allows for greater control over the final image. RAW allows for more control over white balance adjustments, sharpness and noise adjustments, as well as image data. Compared to a JPG image, however, RAW files take up more space and aren’t universally compatible.
Image via Finding the Universe
Recommended Resources:
- “10 Reasons Why You Should Be Shooting in Raw” – Photography Concentrate
- “What is RAW Photography?” – Icon Photography School
- “RAW vs JPEG: The Ultimate Visual Guide” – SLR Lounge
Red Eye
Red-eye refers to the effect a flash may have on the eyes of a photographic subject. The red-eye effect is typically associated with point-and-shoot cameras and pop-up flash attachments on DSLR cameras.
Image via Photokonnexion
This happens when the light from the camera flash is reflected off the back of the eye into the camera lens. Although it can be annoying to deal with, red eye is easily removed with post-processing software.
Recommended Resources:
- “How to Fix the Red Eye Effect in Photos” – All About Vision
- “What is Red Eye and How Can You Prevent It?” – The Spruce Crafts
- “The Red Eye Effect: What It Is, Avoiding It, and Removing It” – Photography Mad
Resolution
Resolution is the measurement of the pixel plane, and is used for measuring in most equipment like cameras, scanners, and digital images. Resolution is measured in pixels, which means the higher the pixel, the better the resolution. Resolution plays a big role in editing images, especially when resizing pictures.
Image via University of Michigan
Recommended Resources:
- “Resolution: Understanding Resolution in Digital Photography” – Exposure Guide
- “Resolution in Photography” – Photography Course
- “De-Mystifying Resolution in Photography” – Picture Correct
Saturation
Saturation is the intensity of a color. The color is more vivid with higher saturation, and closer to gray when the saturation is low.
Image via Medium
This is another key component when editing photos, and it’s important to understand saturation so you can avoid over-saturating a picture. When the colors in the picture are too vivid from saturation, the photo is distorted and looks unnatural to the viewer.
Recommended Resources:
- “What Do We Mean By Saturation When Talking About Saturation?” – Shuttermuse
- “What is Saturation? And How to Get Optimal Saturation”– Photography Life
- “Photo Processing Basics: Use Hue and Saturation Effectively” – Outdoor Photographer
Shutter
A shutter is part of the camera that allows light to pass for a period of time, which exposes the sensor to light, making it possible for a permanent image to be created. There are different types of camera shutters, and the two most common are leaf shutters and focal plane shutters.
Image via Premium Beat
Recommended Resources:
- “Photography Basics 101: Aperture, ISO, and Shutter Speed” – Improve Photography
- “Shutter: Photography” – Britannica
- “Camera Shutter Types” – Digital Photography Tips
Shutter Speed
Shutter speed is the amount of time the shutter remains open, which can be controlled to capture different kinds of images. Shutter speed is measured in seconds, and by changing the speed, a camera is able to capture moving subject or low light images more effectively.
Image via VirtualPhotographyStudio
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding Shutter Speed for Beginners”– Photography Life
- “What is Shutter Speed?” – Creative Live
- “Shutter Speed Explained for the Beginning Photographer” – Photography Talk
Telephoto Lens
A telephoto lens is a lens with a long reach, which can be used to magnify and capture a subject that is far away. Telephoto lenses are great for nature photography or getting action shots at sporting events, as well as just adding distance between you and your subject if needed.
Image via BorrowLenses
Recommended Resources:
- “What is a Telephoto Lens and Why Should I Use One?” – BL Blog
- “Photography 101: What is a Telephoto Lens?” – Masterclass
- “How to Maximize Sharpness with a Telephoto Lens” – Digital Photography School
Time-Lapse
Time-lapse is a series of photos taken over a period of time. The period of time can be minutes, hours, or even days. When the series of photos is played back, time seems to move at a faster rate than which the series was taken.
Image via Giphy
Recommended Resources:
- “Time-Lapse Photography: How to Make Your First Time-Lapse Video” – DIgital Camera World
- “The Complete Guide to Time-Lapse Photography” – Expert Photography
- “10 Tips for Shooting Time-Lapse” – Enrique Pacheco
Tonal Range
The tonal range is used to describe color quality and the tones ranging from the darkest and the shadows to the highlights and brightest whites.
Image via Digital Photography School
Whites are the brightest part of an image, where details are indiscernible, while highlights are the bright areas where the texture and detail can still be seen. In contrast, blacks are the darkest parts of an image, while shadows are dark areas with discernable details and texture.
Recommended Resources:
- “Light & Photography: Exposure and Tonal Range” – Envatotuts+
- “Dynamic Range and Tonal Range in Digital Photography” – Lifewire
- “Expanding Photography’s Tonal Range” – Outdoor Photographer
Viewfinder
A viewfinder is the part of the camera used to focus and compose the subject of an image. Viewfinders can be optical or electronic. Optical viewfinders are common on DSLR cameras, and they allow you to see precisely what is in the shot by looking through the lens. Electronic viewfinders are typically displayed on the LCD screen.
Image via Improve Photography
Recommended Resources:
- “How to Easily Understand and Use the Camera Viewfinder” – Expert Photography
- “7 Things You Need to Know About Electronic Viewfinders” – Photography Concentrate
- “Should I Use the LCD or Viewfinder on my Digital Camera?” – Digital Photography School
Watermark
A watermark is an image, text, or logo placed over a photo to make it more difficult to copy or use the photo without the photographer’s permission.
Image via Computer Hope
Recommended Resources:
- “The Pros and Cons of Watermarks on Photographs” – B&H
- “Watermark Photos? Should You or Shouldn’t You?” – Digital Photography Tips
- “Photography Watermarks — Why Do You Need a Photography Watermark?” – Fix the Photo
White Balance
White balance is the adjustment of colors for a natural looking image, as well as the camera’s ability to color correct in different lighting conditions. The temperature of a color affects how an image will turn out, which in turn may require white balance adjustments to make the image look more natural.
Image via Photography Life
Recommended Resources:
- “Understanding White Balance” – Cambridge in Colour
- “What is White Balance?” – Nikon
- “Introduction to White Balance” – Digital Photography School
Wide Angle Lens
A wide angle lens has a short focal point with a wide field of view. This lens can be used to capture more of a scene while allowing for close-up detail without eliminating the background of a photo.
Image via Adorama
Recommended Resources:
- “5 Mistakes Beginners Make with Wide Angle Lenses and How to Avoid Them” – Photo Mentor
- “What is a Wide Angle Lens? (And When To Use One)” – Expert Photography
- “10 Tips for Shooting Wide-Angle” – Improve Photography
Zoom Lens
A zoom lens can vary its focal length and angle of view by physically moving the optic elements. A zoom lens covers a range of focal lengths, which allows you to take varying pictures without having to switch out lenses to get a different length or angle.
Image via Photography Life
Typically, a zoom lens is not as sharp as a prime lens, but it’s nice to use a zoom lens for event photography or photojournalism when you need to be able to switch angles quickly.
Recommended Resources:
- “What is a Zoom Lens and When Do You Need One?” – Expert Photography
- “Primes Versus Zoom Lenses: Which Lens to Use and Why” – Digital Photography School
- “What is a Zoom Lens? When and Why to Choose a Zoom Lens?” – Sigma Blog
Commercial Photography 101: What is it & How do You Get Started?
Commercial Photography 101: What is it & How Do You Get Started?
In this guide, we take an in-depth look at commercial photography. We cover exactly what commercial photography is, examples, tips, and recommended gear to help you get started.
Want to turn your passion for photography into a rewarding career?
Commercial photography is a competitive field, but with the growth of digital advertising, the need for commercial photographers has skyrocketed. If you are already a hobby photographer, you may want to put those skills to use and specialize in commercial photography.
Not only is it a fun and rewarding career, it’s also quite lucrative. This commercial photography guide will cover everything you need to know to get started as a commercial photographer, including the equipment you’ll need, how much you can expect to make, and some tips for shooting better photos.
Read on or use the links below to “jump” to the section you’d like to check out:
- What is Commercial Photography?
- Commercial Photography vs. Advertising Photography
- Types of Commercial Photography
- Photography Examples
- How Much Do Commercial Photographers Make?
- How to Get Started
- What Gear Should You Use?
- Tips for Success
What is Commercial Photography?
Photo Credit: Ellenllyy via Pixabay
In the most basic terms, commercial photography simply means taking photos for commercial use — think business, advertising, and product photography.
Commercial photography is used by companies who want to promote a product, lifestyle, or brand. Many of the photos you see on popular stock photography websites are commercial photographs.
Commercial photography is used by advertising agencies, marketing firms, tourism bureaus, and small business owners whose goal is to sell their brand using carefully curated photographs.
The Difference Between Commercial Photography & Advertising Photography
The terms advertising photography and commercial photography are often used interchangeably, but there are distinct differences between the two.
Photo Credit: Steve Buissinne via Pixabay
Both are used for promotional purposes, but with different intent, techniques, and equipment. Commercial photography is used to capture products in the best light possible and is often used in portfolios, catalogs, brochures, ads, and digital marketing. It is all about showcasing a product or brand.
Advertising photography includes elements of commercial photography, but it is much more involved.
Instead of simply capturing a product or brand, advertising shots must tell a story, evoke strong emotions, and persuade the viewer to make a purchase. Commercial shots are usually bright, clear, and simple so that the product can shine. Advertising shots make use of creative props, lighting, and editing techniques that may be highly stylized, bold, or dreamy, depending on the campaign and the motives of the ad.
Photo Credit: Free-Photos via Pixabay
Both commercial and advertising photography are powerful marketing tools, and while they certainly overlap, they require a different skill set, different tools, and a different budget.
Types of Commercial Photography and Finding Your Niche
Photo Credit: Marajana1 via Pixabay
A great way to be successful as a commercial photographer is to specialize and excel at one type of photography. Choose a niche based on your interests and work toward creating a portfolio of your very best shots. Here are some common types of commercial photography to help you narrow down your niche.
- Product Photography – There is a huge need for product photography across the globe, and talented photographers will always be in demand. Product photographers usually work in studios with controlled lighting, but some product shoots happen outside with natural lighting.
- Headshots – Headshots are modern portraits that are used for professional profile images in brochures, resumes, websites, and on social media. Traditionally headshots are taken from the shoulders up and can be captured outdoors or in a studio setting.
- Real Estate and Architectural Photography – Real estate photographers can work in both urban and rural areas and are charged with showcasing a property inside and out in order to make a quick sale. Real estate photographers will use a combination of natural and artificial lighting and a variety of wide-angle lenses.
- Drone Photography – Drone photography is a very specific type of commercial photography that is often used in conjunction with real estate photography, but is also used by tourism boards and event marketers. Photographs are shot from the air, enabling you to capture buildings or events from unique angles. Drone photography isn’t for beginners, but it’s a fun way to specialize and financially lucrative.
- Food Photography – It takes quite a lot of talent to make food look enticing in a photograph. Food photographers work almost exclusively indoors, often in a studio setting, but you may be required to shoot on-site at restaurants and commercial kitchens. Food photographers often work with food stylists to make every morsel shine.
- Fashion Photography – If you have experience shooting people and portraits, you should consider fashion photography. Companies hire fashion photographers to capture models wearing specific brands or engaging in different experiences. Fashion shoots can be outdoors or in the studio, but you should excel at giving direction and posing people on the fly.
- Workplace Photography – Also known as environmental portraits, workplace photography images will feature people at work — chefs in the kitchen, office workers at their desks, and construction workers using the tools of their trade. Workplace photos are used in brochures, websites, and advertising, and are usually shot on-site.
Commercial Photography Examples
Now that you have an idea of the types of commercial photography you can specialize in, let’s take a look at some examples featuring each type.
Here is an example of classic product photography. This curated image of color-coordinated work-out gear was shot in a studio setting and features several brands:
Photo Credit: Steve Buissinne via Pixabay
Headshots are often used by models and actors and should feature a close-up of the model’s facial features, usually from the shoulders up. This headshot was created in the studio against a dark background:
Photo Credit: John Harper via Pixabay
While real estate shoots consist of many indoor and outdoor images, the front of the building in good lighting is one of the most important shots to capture. This image was shot at dusk with lights on throughout the house for a warm and welcoming glow:
Photo Credit: Pexels via Pixabay
This carnival image was shot with a drone at night so as to better capture the lights and festivities of this colorful scene. Using an image like this is a great way for marketing teams to promote special events:
Photo Credit: Daria Nepriakhina
Fabulous food photos need precise styling and perfect lighting, which is best accomplished in a studio. In the photo below, notice the props – cherry tomatoes, sage leaves, and peppercorns that compliment the perfectly cooked pizza:
Photo Credit: Zuzana Gazdikova
Fashion images are used to highlight clothing, experiences, or products. Images are often created in the studio, but a natural setting can really add to the finished photo. In this photo, the green trees and garden really show off the red dress that the brand is trying to promote:
Photo Credit: Zigmars Berzins
Workplace photography sessions vary wildly in scope and require a photographer who is willing to always be on the go and prepared for anything. One day you could be shooting an oral surgeon in an office setting, and the next day you find yourself shooting a firefighter training as in the photo below:
Photo Credit: David Mark via Pixabay
How Much Do Commercial Photographers Make?
If you are just starting out, you may be wondering how much you should charge as a commercial photographer. Your fees will vary depending on where you live, the scope of the shoot, and whether you need to hire additional contractors to help with the project. According to PayScale, the average salary for commercial photographers is $45,990.
One of the benefits of becoming a freelance commercial photographer is that you can set your fees based on your skills and experience. As your skill and reputation grows, so will your bottom line.
How to Get Started in Commercial Photography
Photo Credit: S. Hermann & F. Richter via Pixabay
Assuming you already have a passion for photography, as well as some skill with a camera, becoming a commercial photographer isn’t complicated. As with any new business venture, you will have to spend time creating a business plan, buying the proper equipment, creating a website, and advertising your services.
The very first step will be deciding exactly what you want to shoot and choosing a niche to specialize in. When you are just starting out, you should be ready to shoot everything from breakfast cereal to sports cars, but eventually, you will want to find a niche where you excel and feel comfortable as a commercial photographer.
Choosing a niche will also help you keep equipment costs down, as you will find that what you need for fashion shoots is very different from the equipment needed for real estate photography.
Once you’ve narrowed down your photography niche, you can begin taking steps to find clients and grow your business. Here’s a step-by-step guide for getting started in commercial photography.
Step One: Create a Business Plan
A business plan will help you refine your goals, secure funding, and develop a marketing strategy.
Following your business plan will help you stay on track as you grow your client base, and enable you to make smart, strategic decisions about how to invest in your business and price your services.
Your commercial photography business plan should include the legal structure of your business, a description of your products and services, your target market, key marketing strategies, an operations strategy, and a projection of your income and expenses.
Creating a business timeline as part of your plan will help you take actionable steps to grow your business. Check out Expert Photography for a more comprehensive guide to writing a photography business plan.
Step Two: Secure Funding If Necessary
A successful commercial photographer will need specialized equipment that will require an initial investment. If you have the funds to purchase what you need before getting started, congratulations! If you don’t, you can either purchase your equipment slowly over time or you can obtain a small business loan to help you get started.
Photography equipment is expensive, and it’s a good idea to have backup equipment in case something in your toolkit fails while on a shoot. Make a list of the equipment you think you’ll need to get started, as well as funds for marketing, website creation, etc., and decide if you will need a loan to get your business off the ground.
The Small Business Administration is a great resource for finding financial resources to start your business, and they have offices in each state. Banks and other lenders will want to see a well thought out business plan before funding your start-up costs, so make sure you have that done before you apply for a loan.
Step Two: Purchase Necessary Equipment
To get your commercial photography business off the ground, you will need to invest in cameras, lenses, external hard drives, SD cards, lighting equipment, computers, and editing technology. It can be overwhelming to figure out what you need, and what purchases are the most important. Some items you will need right away, and some you can budget for as your business grows.
Specializing in a niche and following your business plan will help you figure out exactly what you need now and what can wait until you begin to pull in some income. We will go into the recommended equipment for starting out further below, but you will definitely need two camera bodies, lenses necessary for your niche, storage solutions, and a computer with editing software to get started.
Do your research, and buy the best equipment you can afford.
Step Three: Develop a Commercial Photography Portfolio
Showcase your best work in an online portfolio that is dedicated to your commercial photography. You can create a simple website by purchasing a domain name and signing up with a hosting service, or you can hire a web designer or tech-savvy friend to create a portfolio website for you.
Your online portfolio should only feature your very best work, so if you don’t already have commercial clients, you may want to offer your services at a discounted rate so you can showcase samples of your work.
Step Four: Advertise Your Services
Your website will act as a digital advertisement highlighting your best work, but if people can’t find your website, you will have a hard time securing clients.
Additional advertising outlets should include both digital and print and will vary depending on your location and your niche. Start by creating business cards, advertising your website with Google and Facebook, and putting up flyers around your city and town. You should also join your local chamber of commerce to network with small business owners who might need your services.
Recommended Photography Gear for Getting Started in Commercial Photography
Photo Credit: TeeFarm via Pixabay
You could invest hundreds and thousands of dollars in your commercial photography business, but that isn’t usually a wise decision when you are just starting out. The following pieces of gear are the bare necessities for getting started. If you are already a hobby photographer, you will find that you already have some of these items:
- Two camera bodies – If you have a decent DSLR or mirrorless camera, you will be able to get started with what you have. If it’s time to upgrade, do some research beforehand, and purchase the best camera you can afford. If you are already attached to a certain brand, it makes sense to stick with it, so you can use the lenses that you already own. It’s important to have two camera bodies in case one malfunctions during a shoot. Not having a backup could very well ruin your relationship with your client and crew.
- A variety of lenses – The lenses you need for your commercial photography business will depend largely on your specialization. Real estate photographers, for example, will want a variety of wide-angle and tilt-shift lenses, and product photographers will want prime and zoom lenses with a wide aperture. Start with the necessary lenses that you can’t work without and make additional purchases as your business grows.
- SD cards – Keep a collection of SD cards in your camera bag so that you have them when you need them. Two 16GB – 32GB cards should be enough storage for most shoots.
- Extra camera batteries – Determine how long a battery lasts in your camera and buy enough for a few days of shooting. You should be charging your batteries before every shoot, but having spares is always a good idea.
- External hard drives – After each shoot, you will want to save your photos to your computer, a cloud-based service, and an external hard drive. If one of these storage solutions fail, you will have a backup ready to go.
- Tripod – Tripods are a necessity for shooting crisp, clear photos. The tripod you choose should be sturdy and lightweight with a head that is easy to adjust.
- External flash – You will be using a variety of flash and external lighting equipment for photoshoots, but to get started, you can purchase an external flash for better illumination of your subject.
- Camera gear bag – You will quickly realize how much equipment you have to carry to your photoshoots. Protect your gear with a dedicated camera bag that has room for your camera bodies, lenses, and tech equipment.
- Computer with Adobe editing tools installed – You should have a computer that is powerful enough for all of your editing needs. A minimum of 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage should be sufficient to start. Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop set the standard for editing tools and are well worth the investment.
Commercial Photography Tips
Once you’ve got things up and running from a business perspective, you can start perfecting your craft and taking amazing photographs for your clients.
- Use a wide aperture – If you are photographing products, food, or headshots, use the widest aperture (lowest f-stop) that your camera and lens can accommodate. This will showcase your subject while making everything else disappear into a blurred background.
- Add a tilt-shift lens to your kit – For real estate and interior shots, use a tilt-shift lens to ensure that your vertical lines remain straight. Wide angle lenses will add an obvious distortion to your shots.
- Always use a tripod – Commercial photoshoots will almost always require a tripod for crisp images. Practice setting up your tripod and adjusting it quickly so it will become second nature on the job.
- Experiment with every conceivable angle – No matter what type of commercial photography you pursue, the composition will always be the most important element in your shoot. Explore your subject matter from every angle until you find the perfect shot.
- Practice your craft every day – Commercial photography can be your passion and your career. Get out and shoot every day to improve your skills.
Get Out There & Start Shooting!
Good commercial photographers are in demand all over the world. If you have skill with a camera and an eye for detail, then commercial photography is a great way to take your love for photography to the next level.