Classes for Photography

Must see classes for learning

Creative Live has tons of videos for the creative in you. Here are my must see classes.

• Adobe Lightroom Classic CC: The Complete Guide

• Posing 101 - Lindsay Adler

• Men’s Portrait Photography- Jeff Rojas

• Shooting for Brands- Andrew Kearns

• Business of Commercial Food Photography- Andrew Scrivani

• Adobe Photoshop CC: The Complete Guide

• Newborn Photography Boot Camp- Kelly Brown

• Portrait Photography Boot Camp- Lindsay Adler

• Your Social Media Boot Camp- Jasmine Star

You will come out the other end a much better photographer. Give it a chance. Click the button find out.

I Want to Quit My Job (again)

I Want to Quit My Job (again)

Every time I get a corporate headshot gig, I fall in love with entrepreneurship all over again. It’s large amount of work that goes with photographing an entire business’s employees. Most importantly, the financial compensation. Businesses don’t haggle price (you shouldn’t be haggling your price anyway). I would love to quit my job and pursue gigs like this full time but I can’t. Here are the tips I’ve noticed worked for me and maybe you can use them and go full time yourself.

SEO: Consistently blogging about your expertise is great for SEO. SEO, or search engine optimization, is what gets you found in a Google search. Make a Google My Business account, blog weekly on your site, and post images to GMB. 0% of my new clients have come from social media.

Cold Call: Stop being so timid. Converse with humans. Call 20 businesses a day. If you land 2 businesses a month willing to spend $5k that would be $100k a year. Have a few scripts and find out what works. Get the info of people on the fence and foster a relationship. SEO brings clients to you. Cold calling brings you to the client.

Under Promise & Over Deliver: Always sneak a little more in whatever service you provide. Go a little more out of your way. No matter the business, this is always the best practice.

This is the latest corporate session that made me want to quit again. It was multiple headshot sessions for AdVANtage Outfitters.

Should Photographers Worry About AI

Should photographers worry about AI?

From the mind of Gonzalo Rodriguez

Should photographers worry about AI? I, without hesitation, say NO. Photographers can welcome it with open arms and an open mind. AI won’t steal your gigs. AI will help you streamline your editing, blogging, and assist with your marketing.

Until artificial intelligence can program a drone and attach a camera to it, I won’t be scared. AI also would need to program poses to flatter body types and gender. Imagine conversing with a drone trying to make you feel comfortable. AI won’t be able to photograph your wedding or pose your newborn baby.

What artificial intelligence is very helpful with is the behind the scenes business stuff. I’ve seen AI make Photoshop a literal cheat code. Closed eyes can be replaced with opened eyes with a lasso tool and typing a few words. Squarespace added AI to blogs. The 2nd half of this blog was AI generated. It did pretty well.

---

Should photographers worry about AI?

From the mind of AI

As an experienced writer at GR Design & Photography, I believe that photographers should pay attention to the rise of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the industry.

On one hand, AI offers a wide array of opportunities to photographers. The technology can enhance and improve image quality, streamline editing processes, and even generate creative concepts. However, photographers must consider the potential implications that AI could have on their profession.

One major concern is the possibility of automated cameras and editing software replacing human photographers. As AI advances, it becomes increasingly capable of capturing high-quality images and completing complex editing tasks that were once exclusive to human photographers. This could potentially lead to a decrease in demand for professional photographers.

Furthermore, there is a risk that AI-powered tools and software could diminish the artistry and creativity that are intrinsic to photography. As AI technology becomes more prevalent, there is a risk that it may standardize and mass-produce images, rather than showcasing unique visions and perspectives.

In conclusion, while AI may provide a range of advantages to photographers, they must also be aware of the potential negative consequences that could accompany its rise. It is essential that photographers continue to learn and evolve their craft, embracing and utilizing AI where appropriate, while also finding ways to preserve the uniqueness and creativity that

FAQ

FAQ

Answer It Before They Ask

Potential clients who don’t know you aren’t just going to book you. The have they’re own sets of needs they are worried about. It is a good idea to have frequently asked questions posted somewhere on your website to ease potential clients’ worries. When you ease a client’s worries, you raise their client experience. The more questions you answer before they contact you, the more of an expert you appear.

Click MY FAQ PAGE to see my examples

Are You Social?

Are You Social?

I have a recommendation. Get social. You never know where your next client will be. If your photography or graphic design is on Facebook, Instagram, Tiktok, Twitter, and LinkedIn you have a better chance of being seen. This might not be news but videos are being prioritized so I would post behind the scenes or a screen recording of how you edit. Talk to your audience about what to expect or why you’re different. Don’t forget to put a hyperlink to a linktree like webpage. Here is an example.

Work with a purpose. The goal of your post is to either book a client or collect an email. Add their info to your CRM and organize it under photographer or client. Save that info for your email so you can target the proper audience. For example if you have a photo session for Easter or fall target that to potential or past clients. If you made a course, target your photographer or graphic design followers.

Having a social media presence is great but it needs to be paired with a call to action on your website which is absolutely necessary. Social media doesn’t always work. There have been days where Instagram has been hacked. This is why it is good to be everywhere. I have business posts on LinkedIn, client posts on Instagram & Facebook, and photographer posts on Tiktok. Do this how ever you want, just make sure you do it.

Comment below if you want more info about targeting for emails.

---

5 things you need in your photography website

5 things you need in your photography website.

What makes a great website? It’s debatable but some of the most important things are as follows:

• Great eye catching photography. Less is more. You will be judged on your worst photo so only post your absolute best. (attention)

• A call to action button. Make it clear where your potential clients can contact you so they can book you. (booking)

• Have your location on your website. If a potential client has to chose between 2 photographers they’re going to pick (or contact) the one with the known location. (booking & SEO)

• Blogs. Give tips on what to wear or what to expect in your blogs. It establishes you as an authority and helps your SEO. (SEO)

• Most importaintly, get Google verified. This will make you searchable when people look for photographers in my area. (SEO)

---

3 Head Shot Tips for Killer Images

3 Tips for Killer Head Shots

First is your catch light. This is when the light from your main (key) light hits your subject’s eyes. This brings dept and life to your image.

Second is your key light. This is your main light and you will get a different feeling in your image depending where you place your light. I like to place my strobe at 45 degrees (10 or 2 o’clock) and a few feet over the subject’s head with my softbox angled down.

 Last is the back light. Also know as rim, shoulder, or hair light; it lights the back of your subject. This illuminates the back edge of your subject and separates them from the background.

With this lighting and enough practicing with posing and you should be able to go after those corporate head shot gigs in no time.

Fun Fact: 99% of people getting head shots are not models. They won’t be comfortable in front of a camera. Hell, I”M not comfortable in front of a camera. Be relaxed, be charismatic, and make it fun. The picture will show what they feel. Laughing and relaxed will show. Nervous and uncofortable will also show.

---

INVEST IN YOURSELF

What to look for when hiring a maternity &/or newborn photographer.

Experience

You will be pregnant with this child only once.  You might be spending a lot of money on one or both of these sessions.  Make sure your photographer can consistently produce what they are showing on their site or social media.  An experienced photographer should be answering most of your questions before you even ask them.  

Vibe

You should be vibing with your photographer.  If you aren’t comfortable with your photographer, there is a good chance that will come through in your photos. Photographers who know what they are doing are comfortable with their sessions and their confidence 9/10 will be passed onto you. 

Can They Bundle?

Maternity photographers might not be newborn photographers but newborn photographers are almost always maternity photographers as well.  See if they have bundle packaging.  My “The Glow” package is a maternity session and newborn session and images from both sessions end up in your album and, at times, the birth announcement cards. 

Ps: you should be printing this beautiful journey out.  Don’t just post it on your social media, print it out and hang images in your nursery. Make an album and put it on your coffee table for all to see.  

Winter Wonderland

Tips for your next winter session

If you are brave enough to take pictures in the dead of winter, here are some tips you should know.

Wear Layers

The session below was 17 degrees when we started photographing. The best thing to do is wear layers. Thermals for your legs, thick socks or 2 pair, snow boots, and long sleeves with a thick sweater looks great and you might not even need a coat.

Extras

Bring extras. Extra hats and extra gloves will give your session different looks. It will also keep you warm if you take pictures playing with the snow. Sneak some hand warmers in there too.

Move

Shivering is your body’s way of keeping you warm. The more you move , the warmer you will be. This can serve two purposes: keep you warm and make your images more fun. Running, jumping, and dancing puts a smile on anyone’s face.

---

3 tips for a smooth family session

Calm the beast and slay your session.

I only say beast because that’s my daughter. Here are three tips to help your family session go smoothly.

• PATIENCE- patience is paramount when photographing children. Those under 4 won’t always cooperate. If you book multiple sessions in a day, have down time in between session so your session doesn’t spill into your next booking.
  

• BRIBERY- Photoshoots are a big deal for little children. Reward them handsomely! “Do a good job and we get ice cream!” has worked wonders. If the child needs immediate gratification, stay away from messy treats. If worse come to worse, strap a phone to your head while playing Cocomelon.
  

• KINDNESS IS KING- Parenting styles vary from parent to parent. Inform them they will not be yelling at their child during there session. Nothing is worse than a sad, scared child in all of your pictures.
  

Let me know if any of these tips worked for you. What did I miss that works for you?
Smile!

P.S. She calmed down.

Fall sessions

What should you know before you go.

Know what you want: There’s nothing wrong with taking a peek at Pintrest and having an idea of what you want. Every photographer has their style and letting them know what ideas you have in your head assures that everyone is on the same page.

Know what to wear. I recommend solid colors for most of my sessions but for fall sessions, it’s ok to go plaid as long as the family matches. Try not to camouflage with the background by wearing a very saturated orange or red top.

Trust your photographer. If they are experienced, they should know how to prep you for your session. They should let you know what to expect, what to wear, how much time is needed, and exactly where you are meeting for your session. This is how I run my sessions.

Reasons you need prints in your life (Copy)

Reasons you need prints in your life.

While I love and respect the posting and sharing of my clients’ images after one of my photoshoots, I feel like clients should go the extra mile and get those images printed. It doesn’t even have to be through me. I’m in the process of getting photo release cards so clients don’t run the risk of other places not printing my photography. If you take the time and spend the money on a shoot, some sort of physical product should be purchased as well. If you just take the digital prints and never do anything with them you run the risk of losing the USB and your computer crashing. Yes this is worse case scenario it won’t happen right away. I only archive my clients’ images for a year or so.

Showing off the digital images can be a nuisance also. You need to be near a computer. You need to find the USB if it’s not saved on your computer. Physical products are usually on a coffee table, on your wall, or make your mornings bright when you hold your coffee mug with my images on them. You see these products every day.

You have choices as well. You’re free to take your images to Walmart or Costco. I don’t recommend it. I won’t stop you. I will warn you that the quality and colors will most likely be subpar. The quality of those products won’t compare with manufactures that strictly deal with professional photographers. Screens are calibrated and images are color corrected so you receive the best image possible.

Yes it will cost more. There is nothing wrong with going the less expensive route. Quality will make your images stand out though. Just what ever you do, don’t let your image collect dust hidden in a drawer.

Gift Certificates Available

Give the gift of photography. Memories for life.

Book Now

Reasons you need prints in your life

Reasons you need prints in your life.

While I love and respect the posting and sharing of my clients’ images after one of my photoshoots, I feel like clients should go the extra mile and get those images printed. It doesn’t even have to be through me. I’m in the process of getting photo release cards so clients don’t run the risk of other places not printing my photography. If you take the time and spend the money on a shoot, some sort of physical product should be purchased as well. If you just take the digital prints and never do anything with them you run the risk of losing the USB and your computer crashing. Yes this is worse case scenario it won’t happen right away. I only archive my clients’ images for a year or so.

Showing off the digital images can be a nuisance also. You need to be near a computer. You need to find the USB if it’s not saved on your computer. Physical products are usually on a coffee table, on your wall, or make your mornings bright when you hold your coffee mug with my images on them. You see these products every day.

You have choices as well. You’re free to take your images to Walmart or Costco. I don’t recommend it. I won’t stop you. I will warn you that the quality and colors will most likely be subpar. The quality of those products won’t compare with manufactures that strictly deal with professional photographers. Screens are calibrated and images are color corrected so you receive the best image possible.

Yes it will cost more. There is nothing wrong with going the less expensive route. Quality will make your images stand out though. Just what ever you do, don’t let your image collect dust hidden in a drawer.

Gift Certificates Available

Give the gift of photography. Memories for life.

Book Now

What I bring to my Newborn Shoots

This blog will be informative for clients and educational for photographers.  I'll go into detail on what hardware I bring on my newborn shoots and why.  If you like what you read or have anymore questions, comment below. 

1. One goes without saying: a camera. I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark III.  If you can afford it, you should always have a backup camera. Accidents happen. 
2. Lenses: When shooting a newborn, safety should always be a priority.  For now I shoot newborns with a 24-70 Canon L Series lens.  This allows me to stay as close a possible to the baby incase he or she moves. The goal is also to get a macro lens and a 35mm lens as well. 
3. Strobes: Alien Bees are a solid brand as far as strobes go.  A better idea is static lighting.  The pop of the strobe, at times, bothers the baby and you definitely don't want to do that. The deeper sleep the baby is in, the better poses you can get.
4. Light modifiers: I love my octobox.  I take it on all my shoots. Light modifiers soften the light and keep the light traveling in one direction for better shadows. 
5. Transceivers: This is was sets off the strobes. Most times you only need a set of two.  Alien Bees have a built in slave that sets off second or third strobes.
6. Wireless speakers: I'M GIVING AWAY A HUGE SECRET HERE! Go on Youtube and find a long video of Sounds from Inside the Womb.  It's great white noise for the baby.  They just spent nine months listening to this.  
7. Extra Memory: You might not have dumped other shoots from your chip and don't have space. Or (I've done this more times than I'd like to admit) you left your chip plugged in at home.  You should have at least 3.
8. Card Reader: If you want to show images on location.
9. Laptop: If you're brave enough to show your work straight out the camera you might want to bring this with you.  I have birth announcements as part of my newborn package and sometimes I have clients pick their favorites on location.
10. External Hard Drive: I like to back my files up IMMEDIATELY.  Not once but twice.  First the external hard drive and  Dropbox.  You can never be too safe.
11. Extra AA Batteries: You should be switching out batteries before every shoot.  Just incase you don't, extra batteries.
12. Extra Camera Batteries: Once again, you should always have fully charged batteries in your camera but just incase, extra batteries.

Remember, referral $$$ for sending a mother to be my way.  

Thank you for your time.  I hope this was informative to both potential clients and to other photographers. 

A huge congratulations to a great friend and few tips for outdoor wedding photography

I had the honor of shooting a childhood friend's wedding this weekend.  CONGRATS JAY AND MARYAM!!  For those who are close to Jay and Maryam, enjoy the teasers. For those looking for a few outdoor photography tips, continue reading after the images

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Photography talk now. I might lose some of you here.

Ok, so as you can see it was a quaint, beautiful wedding. You might also notice it is super sunny and the sun was at a very high point causing a shadow in everyone's eyes.  A quick fix would be to raise the shadow level in Lightroom.  There is more artistic freedom in the couple shots.  

Do as much as you can do inside the camera.  If there is less to edit then workflow is a breeze. Come prepared.  I travel with my strobe lights and a lithium battery so that means instant strobes anywhere.  Another must have is a ND Filter.  This helps keep the shallow depth of field (bokeh) on sunny days.  Yes, some math is involved.  Without a high speed sync, I must keep my shutter speed under 200.  Thats what the ND Filter helps with.  From there it's photographer's choice on what your filler light and what your main light source will be, sun or strobe.  

Images were shot with a Canon 5D Mark III Lens: 85mm L Series                                                            ISO 100 Shutter Speed 200 Fstops 3.5-5.6 

For more information on wedding photography you can check it out here: http://shootdotedit.com/2018/04/how-to-edit-wedding-photos/