I fell hopelessly in love with photography when I started blogging in 2012. I knew I had to make Fashion and Style Police stand out, and I knew one way to stand out was to take stunning photos. Photos are usually the first thing blog readers notice, so I knew I had to brush my photography skills up.
I have come a long way from the girl with the Fujifilm point and shoot camera to where I am today. I am not quite where I want to be as far as my blog photos are concerned but I am gradually getting to that sweet spot. It has taken a lot of practice, many trials and errors, many props and lighting and many cameras to get to where I am now in 2017. So I thought to share some tips and tricks I picked up along the way. And some photography tools that help create these photos.
Camera
I currently use a Canon EOS 1200D, and it is the best camera I have ever used. It is my first Canon, and first DSLR. I got an extra 50mm lens to go with it, and together we are magical. I really couldn’t ask for a better camera.
The camera plays a major role in how the photos look in the end, so pay attention when selecting one. I would strongly recommend a Canon DSLR above all others because my experience with mine has been amazing. The fact that I can take stunning photos regardless of the time of the day with no flash, says it all.
Pro Tip: Go for a DSLR and get a 50mm Lens.
Lightning
I recently got these 2 Continuous Lighting Kit 50 x70cm Softbox Photo Studio Set Light Bulbs Lamp 500K from Amazon, and it has literally changed my photography game. I can take photos any time in the day, even at night, which is amazing especially for this winter season with darkness starting at 3pm sometimes.
They brighten my photos leaving room for little or no editing. They are a must-have photography tool for every blogger.
Pro Tip: Get a Lightning Kit.
Natural Lighting
Natural lighting is the best if you have enough of it. I get all my outfit photos taken outside, I think they would appear best with natural lighting.
Pro Tip: Take as many photos as you can take in the natural light especially the outfit photos.
Location/Props
The right location/props could make the photos very beautiful. I am not as adventurous as I should be with my outfit photos. I just take my photos when and where is convenient. I am hoping to step it up a little this year, and go fishing for amazing locations around me.
As for my photo props, I have a few wall paper samples I go from B&Q, and a white fluffy rug from IKEA that does the trick. I also make use of magazine pages, worktops, regular tables, and the couch sometimes. It all depends on what I am photographing and where I am.
Pro Tip: Pay attention to the location and props you use.
Editing
For my photo editing, I make use of Lightroom and Photoshop. I do minimal editing, so I may play around with the exposure, contrast, vibrance and saturation of the photo on Lightroom. I usually just crop and save on Photoshop. I am currently taking an online Lightroom course too. I am learning so much and I am enjoying it.
Pro Tip: The more amazing the photos are, the less editing you have to do. Pay attention to the photographing.
Do you have any photography tips or tricks to share?