QUICK QUESTIONS: March/April
- Q. Do you also use studio lights or outdoor locations?
- Q. Can you tell me what software you use to present your photographs to the client?
- Q. With so many cameras to choose from today, what camera and lens would you recommend for taking contemporary portraits of a professional quality?
- Q. What is your professional opinion on uploading images to a Facebook Business Page – without just asking first?
Q1. Do you also use studio lights or outdoor locations? – Nonie Cabrera
A1. I only use natural light on location. I used to use studio lights 15 years ago when I did mainly makeovers. But I just find it so boring working in a studio – it’s the same every day! I love outdoor work because everything is always different, therefore it’s much more inspiring and creative.
I love to turn up at someone’s house and think – wow – this is what I have today, this weather, this light, this location, these kids, now what shall I do with it? I think it makes for a much more creative day!
Annabel x
Q2. Can you tell me what software you use to present your photographs to the client? Katie Graham
A2. Adobe Lightroom – it has a great slideshow facility in there – very simple to use.
Annabel x
Q3. With so many cameras to choose from today, what camera and lens would you recommend for taking contemporary portraits of a professional quality? Should I invest in a DSLR and a long zoom lens, or would a compact do the job just as well? – Gary Madison
A3. If you are looking for professional quality you would need a DSLR with a long zoom lens. This will give you much more scope and control. I personally never use a compact camera these days, because my iPhone 4S does a much better job! The apps are more fun and make everyday snapshots look amazing. See my blog – HOW TO: Shoot Great Portraits on your iPhone and for setting up your DSLR easily, see my blog – Set up your camera the easy way…
Annabel x
Q4. What is your professional opinion on uploading images to a Facebook Business Page – without just asking first? A local photographer has used images from a shoot I had done in my bedroom on a Facebook page. They are not indecent but I’m not comfortable with my personal sanctuary being on Facebook! I have requested they be removed, but she has not done so. I believe legally she can do this – but I think professionally I would respect client’s feelings? Melanie Hart
A4. Its a tricky one this – but I agree with you that a professional photographer should always respect their client’s feelings. It is common courtesy to ask if pictures can be used, and I always do this personally, as I would be mortified if one of my clients was not happy.
Annabel x