Specialist Skills
Although the person taking pics with their phone can shot everything from selfies to landscapes to that cute thing their dog is doing, photographers tend to specialize in the type of photography services they offer. Of course, photographers are trained to be able to capture images and work with lighting anywhere, but there are vast differences to taking images in a closed studio, product shots using a lightbox, model shoots at the beach or family shots on location. Each requires different knowledge of lens, lighting, positioning, angles and reflections in order to get the most out of the subject. When you’re looking at on location shoots a professional photographer in Phoenix, AZ understands the local environment, which has different conditions that might be found in Denver, CO. Having someone who understands your locality is important.
Event Photography
Often people will think of wedding photography when you mention event photography, but there is so much more than that. In the age of cell phones you may think that the candid shots are all you will need to remember that special party, bridal shower or even corporate launch. However, one of the things that photographers are trained in is how to capture the images you want. Candid shots are great, but you do want to make sure that you get key moments – and that they capture your good side. Photographers will generally survey a location before the event to work out where the light falls and where to stand to get the best shots. Whether that is the bride-to-be hugging her future mother in law, the company president walking to the podium, or a reunion class group shot.
The people attending the event are there because they want to be there, to celebrate with you, to remember, to learn. They aren’t focused on capturing the rapt expression, the shining applause, the faces that you will always want to remember.
Portraits
These can be on location or in the studio. From a family portrait that will be a cherished memory for years to come, to action shots that highlight your skills, or corporate photographs that can are used in company marketing to highlight your talented team. Portraits are one of the oldest forms of photography (click here), and although you may still see the traditional seated shot, generally photographers try to capture a more unique version of their subject. Unlike original portraiture which required subjects to stay perfectly still for a long period, modern photography can take hundreds of images in that same time – so smiling is completely optional.
Did you know that most photographers will still use lighting and reflectors on outdoor shoots? Knowing how to use light to bring the best in your subject is one of the signs of an experienced and knowledgeable photographer.
Product Photography
Having your products photographed well can make all the difference to your sales. Even if you sell 100% in store, having beautiful imagery in any marketing document (including your website and social media streams) brings potential customers through your doors. Again, lighting is a key component, but so is having access to equipment like backdrops, screens and lightboxes. Although stories abound about tricks used to make fast food look good https://www.thisisinsider.com/food-photo-tricks-2017-9 photographers do know how changing the focus can highlight a product, and the importance of a background.
Your product photographer is able to provide true to life images of your product that most people just can’t capture – and certainly not on their quick phone snaps.
Article written by Tara