Photography Tips For Blogging

Continuing the blogging series today I thought I’d share some of my top tips when it comes down to photography. I am no expert by any means but I know several photographers so I’ve learned quite a bit, then there is good ole google to lend a hand. It’s really hard for me to pin point a style of photography for myself or what to even call it because I just point and shoot. I’m a very visual person and get inspiration from everything around me. I do know that I prefer a clean photo and the majority of my pictures are taken in natural lighting. I really depend on editing to make my photos brighter or add color where I need it so it’s a must for me! So whether you’re using an SLR or your phone here are some tips that can help . . .

1. White Background – The majority of all my photos are taken using a white background. I purchase dozens of white poster boards and toss them when they get dirty. I use the matte side so that light doesn’t reflect off the shiny side and cause flashback. I feel that items really stand out against the white and gives me that clean look I want.

2. Camera Remote – Please invest in one of these! Anyone else hate that awkward selfie arm in their pics? I have a Canon RC-6 remote for my SLR and can’t stress how important it is for me. I don’t have an extra set of hands to help me out with photos so all I do is hit the button and call it a day. Don’t have an SLR no problem, you can even get them for your iPhones which is pretty awesome!

3. Natural Lighting – While I do own artificial lights I prefer daylight for my photos. It doesn’t alter the tone or color and looks the best in my opinion. I take most of my pictures in front of my screen doors which let a ton of light in.

4. Props – I love setting up for photos! I use candles, fresh flowers, magazines, books etc. Walk around the house you’d be surprised what you can find to help aid in a photo. Your local thrift store could also have pretty containers or glass bowls that you can use to house certain items. I love to keep packaging and gift boxes to re-use them in photos too! I use tape and blu tack to keep items from rolling off the board or vanity. I love creating live collages of items so I’ll lay things out to make them look somewhat uniform instead of holding the item up and my hands getting in the way.

5. Editing – The most crucial part of this whole process because it gives me the finished product. I use an app called After Light to edit all of my photos. I can adjust the brightness, contrast, saturation and exposure which helps me achieve that bright look to my pictures. I then add a filter from the VSCO Cam app called T1 and I get that almost grunge feel to my photos. I don’t use the filter all the time but if I do that’s the one choose! I completely adore these apps and are a must have for me.

I hope this was helpful to some of you because I get a ton of questions on how I take my pictures and I did a post here showing all of the equipment I use as well. Make your photos your own and don’t be afraid to try new things, now off I go with Maddy in hand (yes my camera has a name). . .