[blockquote quote_type=”type5″ author_name=”” width=”100%” float=”right”]Photography tells more than words, and with it, we can create feelings and tell the story that words can’t .[/blockquote]
Recently, I get a lot of questions about what kind of camera I use and which software I use for editing (especially for Instagram). For this reason, I write this blog post. First, let me explain that I am not a professional photographer, so this post is not about professional gear, this is just what I use and some tricks to get better photos.
Camera
A professional camera does not mean necessary professional photos. I often get messages (especially on Instagram), what kind of camera do I use, because photos are so beautiful. Well, there’s really no professional camera. Yes, of course, it can make it easier (if you know how to use it), and it is necessary to have a camera that takes good quality photos… But it is far from the fairytale that if you have a professional camera, photos will also be professional. For this is also a lot of knowledge needed. So any camera (iPhone or a real camera) you use, take time and know it, learn about it as much you can. Read instructions, watch videos, get to know all the possible settings… then test, photograph, practice every day.
And for all curious ones, I use the Canon EOS 100D and the Canon 50mm or Sigma 18-250mm lens.
Tripod
It’s very useful to have a tripod, especially in those darker moments when you have to increase the time. The stand can be DIY (eg a couple of books) or the “right” tripod. Depend on how often you photograph and if you want to invest in gear.
I use the Cullmann Alpha 2300 Tripod.
Background, reflector, light
From all tips, this is the most important one. If you take some more time to learn about light your photos will definitely become better. The best light source is natural light and the best position for photographing is at the window. You can also use a reflector to get rid of shadows. This can be DIY – e.g. a piece of white paper/aluminum foil, which you place in such a way that the shadows disappear.
I like to play and change backgrounds. Of course, every time I don’t get looking for a marble plate. Instead, I have prepared wooden board with different patterns. On this board, I also use self-adhesive foil with different patterns.
Layout
Before you click the button, check if everything is as should be. Maybe you can remove something (eg a dirty kitchen cloth, a glass, a paper …) and remove any stains (especially if you are photographing on surfaces where fingerprints can be seen…).
Often I use up to 3 elements, sometimes I add more elements for background, texture… But I always check layout and the rule of a third. It is also important that the colors match, and the dark and bright shades are nicely arranged.
Edit
I use Photoshop for editing (because I use it for my work and for me it is the easiest way to edit). I stick to the rules less is more and I only make necessary edits – if it is necessary to fix the light, remove some stain on the glass table I missed while taking a photo… If you take a picture with a mobile phone, you can edit the photos using different applications. For more: How to efficiently remove unwanted content from your photos
Hope this post has given you some new idea what you can use to take better photos. In a comment below you can also share your tips and what you use.
Great tips, thanks for this post!
Thank You, for stopping by, Amanda!
Such a great post. I need to learn more about cameras!
Thank you, Kerr! Learning about gear is fun and then taking a photo can be really great!
I have issues with lighting and finding ways to make the setting nice. I’m thinking about taking a photography class. I have a tripod but don’t like using it.
Making setting nice is a big one – not so easy to do for a great photo. Thank You, for stopping by, Kim!