Jazzing up Yesteryear with Modern Techniques

Introduction

Every photographer's life is a perpetual adventure - a never-ending journey full of spice, with each twist and turn leading to cool new skills and fascinating toys. And that's the charm of this beautiful quest. Sometimes, as our perspective matures, we might start seeing our old works with fresh eyes. Should we grab our tools and give the oldies an update? This piece delves into the thought-provoking opportunities of dusting off our photo vaults and transforming our vintage snaps with advanced wizardry like the new kid on the block, Photoshop's beta A.I. addition, or the uber-cool Topaz Photo A.I.

The Evolution of Editing Tools

In the last year alone we now have super-powered toys that can flip, twist, and spin our snaps into a fantastic frenzy. Standing tall amidst these primo tools, Photoshop's beta A.I. addition and Topaz Photo A.I. have given a super boost to our photo renewal mania.

Photoshop's Beta A.I. Addition

Photoshop, the steadfast comrade of shutterbugs, keeps breaking the mold and redefining the game. The introduction of its beta A.I. addition has opened up a whole new range in image manipulation. This A.I. feature can bring to life your new stellar ideas to spruce up your shot.

Imagine popping open a snapshot from eight years ago, frozen at an exquisite moment in time. Now throw in the A.I. flair, and you've got yourself an enhanced visual treat! Boost the image's dynamic range, tweak colors, add or subtract bits and pieces, and voilà! You've breathed new life into a long-forgotten snap, unearthing new ideas and details that were just waiting for their moment in the sun.

Topaz Photo A.I.

Topaz Photo A.I. is here to take your photo editing game to the next level, and it's a wild ride! This cheeky little software uses all the smarts of artificial intelligence to whip your images into shape, making them zing with clarity, sharpness, and a burst of downright dazzling vibrancy. When it comes to gussying up your old snaps, Topaz Photo A.I. is like your best friend with a magic wand. No need deep-dive into complicated knobs and buttons, just let it work its mojo.

What really makes Topaz Photo A.I. shine brighter than a glitter bomb at a unicorn convention is its knack for reducing noise and amplifying the details without going overboard. This is just the ticket when you're dealing with more, ahem, vintage photos that might have seen better days. Let this tool work its magic and presto—you've got yourself a beautified blast from the past that's ready for modern gawking or even printing.

Tinker and Tailor

Fire up Photoshop's beta A.I. and Topaz Photo A.I. for a session of experimentation in editing land. Dare to try out new methods and styles you've picked up in your adventures. But remember, the aim isn't just to buff up but to weave your current creative mojo into your memory capsules. In the wacky world of snapshot capturing, it's a complete blast to dust off your classic masterpieces and spruce them up with fresh tricks and gizmos - I'm talking about Photoshop's new-fangled A.I. test version and the impressive Topaz Photo A.I. Talk about a hoot and half! It's like mouth-to-mouth for your old photo collections, sprucing them up to match your present-day wizardry and creative mojo. So, don't be shy, take a deep breath, dive headfirst into your photo trove, and embark on an epic voyage of rediscovery and artistic muscle-building. After all, your images are nothing but a mirror of your non-stop evolution as a snapper!

High Volume Headshots for your business? Our Specialty!

Capturing Moments at the Speed of Light: The Art of High-Volume Headshot Photography

In the fast-paced corporate world, first impressions matter more than ever. Whether you're attending a business conference, a corporate event, or a work function, having a professional headshot can make a world of difference. It's not just about showcasing yourself or your team; it's about projecting a confident, approachable, and trustworthy image. In this era of technology and instant gratification, waiting days or weeks for headshot photos are no longer acceptable. That's where our cutting-edge photography company steps in, specializing in high-volume headshot photography using the newest tech to capture, process, and turn over the photos almost immediately.

The Need for Speed: Rapid Turnaround Headshots

Time is a precious commodity, and professionals attending these events don't have the luxury of waiting days or weeks for their headshots. We understand the urgency and importance of delivering high-quality photographs promptly. Equipped with the latest technology and streamlined processes, we have mastered the art of shooting hundreds of people in a day without compromising on quality.

Embracing Technology for Seamless Execution

At the heart of our high-volume headshot photography service is cutting-edge technology. Our state-of-the-art cameras and lighting equipment ensure impeccable image quality. We use advanced tethering systems that allow us to transfer photos instantly to a secure and efficient processing station. Clients use our kiosk or their phones to add their names, and emails to our list. and This means that our clients can receive their headshots within moments of being captured directly and personally to their email, giving them the freedom to select the perfect shot while still at the event.

Post-Processing for Picture-Perfect Results

Our skilled team of post-production experts has fine-tuned this process to enhance and retouch the selected images rapidly, maintaining a natural and professional look. The streamlined post-processing workflow ensures that the finalized photos are ready for emailing, and sharing.

Convenience and Flexibility for Any Event

Our high-volume headshot photography service is tailor-made for various corporate events and functions. Whether it's a large-scale conference, a corporate gala, a team-building retreat, or a recruitment event, we are equipped to handle any event, big or small. Our expert team knows how to work efficiently without compromising on the personal touch that makes each headshot unique. When it comes to corporate events, our high-volume headshot photography service is unparalleled. Professionals attending these events can get their headshots taken without interrupting their schedule. Our discreet and unobtrusive setup allows individuals to have their photos taken swiftly, so they can get back to networking, attending sessions, or enjoying the event.

Building Lasting Professional Relationships

Beyond the rapid turnaround and cutting-edge technology, our photography company takes pride in building lasting relationships with our clients. We understand that each event is unique, and we work closely with event organizers and coordinators to ensure a seamless photography experience. Our friendly and professional team makes everyone feel comfortable in front of the camera, resulting in natural and authentic headshots that truly reflect each individual's personality. In the digital age, time is of the essence, and our photography company recognizes the significance of providing high-quality headshot photographs with an almost immediate turnaround. With the latest technology, streamlined processes, and a team of skilled professionals, we have mastered the art of high-volume headshot photography for work functions, corporate events, conferences, and more. Capturing the essence of each professional at the speed of light, we empower individuals and teams to make a lasting impression and elevate their professional image. So, the next time you attend a corporate event, look for our high-volume headshot photography service and experience the convenience of top-notch headshots captured and processed in an instant.

Growth in the Face of Client Loss

Coping with client loss as a photographer is an inescapable reality in the ever-changing world of photography. It can be disheartening to see clients opt for other professionals, be it due to new ideas, lower prices, or a better connection. However, it is important to recognize that these setbacks can be a chance for our personal and professional growth. Here are some steps that we as photographers or creatives can take to navigate the emotional side of losing clients and come out stronger: 

1. Embrace change and progression: Clients may look for new perspectives in their search for ideas, so it is imperative for photographers to stay up-to-date with the industry. Experimenting with new styles and techniques and seeking out inspiration can help make them attractive to a wider range of clients. 

Image by freepik

2. Compete based on value, not price: In a competitive market, some photographers might reduce their prices to attract more customers. Instead of racing to the bottom, we should be highlighting their unique value and the quality and professionalism that set us apart. 

3. Forge strong connections: Photography relies on relationships, so it may be that a client looks for someone they feel more comfortable with, and that's ok because we don't have to click with everyone we do business with, and while it is important to assess client interactions and work on communication skills not everyone will be part of your circle. However, creating a positive experience can improve the chances of clients choosing the photographer. 

4. Make use of feedback: Receiving feedback from clients can be a chance to identify areas for improvement and refine approaches. Use this information to sharpen skills and adjust services or marketing strategies. Ask for feedback from your clients and take their comments objectively. Honest feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your approach.

@jontyson

5. Rely on support: Building a supportive community of fellow photographers can be a great source of encouragement. I myself am in loads of Photographer groups, and I talk to my circle of Photographer friends on a regular basis. Connect with like-minded individuals and share your experiences and advice to stay motivated. Instead of succumbing to discouragement, use these moments to grow and develop professionally and personally. Embrace change, focus on your unique value, forge strong connections, learn from feedback, and find solace in a supportive community. Remember, setbacks can open doors for new opportunities and ultimately lead to greater success in the ever-evolving world of photography. Remember, even when clients move on, setbacks can open doors to new opportunities and lead to greater successes.

Prom Night !

I love shooting Prom night, It’s a time to celebrate, and preserving these special memories in stunning portraits is the perfect way to do it.

Shooting professional prom portraits with a background we had created at Laird Plastics in Brampton ON, we aimed to capture the unforgettable moments of this special occasion. We worked hard to create a perfect atmosphere, inspired by photographer John Gress' post I saw on Instagram a few years back.

Our Process is similar to our High Volume headshot sessions that we shoot for our corporate clients, except we add prints to these types of shoots. Our team consisted of several experts - one with Capture One Pro, a talented photographer, and an experienced individual who directed and posed the subjects. Laird Plastics provided us with high-quality materials. I chose 3mm Sintra, which was ideal for our background since it was able to bend and take hits, I have seen similar setups in studios a few times using foam core, however, it is super fragile and is difficult to travel with without damaging it every little scratch or ding shows up and I wanted to focus on the subjects, not repairing backgrounds during editing. Plus the image's background was a key factor as it set the tone for the entire shoot and showcased the subjects' elegance, excitement, and personality.

Our team worked together to create a streamlined and efficient workflow to provide the subjects with their stunning portraits quickly. The synergy between the photographer and the subjects led to beautiful images that truly captured the beauty and emotions of the prom night. We skillfully directed the subjects, guiding them through poses that showcased their personalities and style. By working closely with the prom attendees, we captured their natural beauty and unique spirit, edited them, printed them, and had their photos ready to download in 30-40 seconds after the Shoot. This results in portraits that will be cherished for a lifetime. With the perfect team each doing their part, we created a visual narrative that showcased elegance, Class, and joy.

SD Cards: To Reuse or Not to Reuse? Weighing the Risks and Benefits

So this topic tends to be a bit controversial as I have heard both sides of this topic from many people over the years. As a photographer, videographer, or content creator, you understand how essential having dependable storage devices is. SD cards are a favorite choice for lots of experts due to price point and convenience. Nevertheless, some creatives (like myself) might be hesitant to reuse their SD cards for vital tasks due to the fear of corruption. In this article, we will discuss the pros and cons of reusing SD cards or buying new cards for each project. Now I understand that there are different brands and types of cards that are better than others, everyone has their preferred brands. (I will save that topic for another time). I have heard great things about the new CFexpress cards, however, as a Fujifilm shooter, I’m limited to SD cards with my gear.

Charles Lamb

To begin with, let's talk about the reasons you could be hesitant to reuse SD cards. The fear of corruption is a valid issue, as formatting an SD card multiple times can raise the possibility of data loss or corruption. I’m sure at least once in your career you have experienced or heard horror stories from colleges about them inserting their card into their computer and experiencing corrupted files. It’s not a feeling anyone wants to experience. I get anxious just hearing about it. If your SD card gets corrupted, it could lead to substantial financial and time losses, since you may need to reshoot or recreate your work if you are not able to recover the card, and this is especially true for professionals who work on tight deadlines or high-stakes projects. I do own an older copy of EaseUS I obtained a few years back that I have used to recover data from friend’s and colleagues’ storage cards. The only reason I have it is that one time I hired a second shooter a few years back who ended up having a corrupted CF card that had Photos that I really needed. To my surprise, the software worked right off the bat and we were able to recover all the files.

Nevertheless, buying new SD cards for each job can also have its drawbacks. The cost of memory has decreased drastically in recent years, making it easier to add the cost of a card to the cost of the job. However, for some creators, the expenses of continuously buying new SD cards can accumulate quickly, especially if they are working on multiple projects at once. Additionally, buying new SD cards all the time can be wasteful, as the old cards could end up being discarded or unused. I myself keep important jobs such as weddings or high-priced commercial work on the cards and store those in a fireproof safe for up to 3-4 years. They are still backed up onto 2 separate drives which contain the raw and edited files, but the SD Cards won't be reused in the time frame. Now I do have a few 120 GB cards as secondary cards in my camera. but even those get retired after a few months. I myself have never experienced card corruption, I shoot tethered to my Computer for most of my Jobs which automatically back up to a cloud drive.

Laura Boccola

So, what is the best solution? It ultimately depends on your individual requirements and preferences. If you are working on a high-stakes project or are worried about data loss or corruption, it may be best to use a new SD card for each task. This will guarantee that your data is stored safely and reduce the risk of corruption. However, if you are working on multiple projects at the same time or are on a tight budget, reusing SD cards might be a more practical solution. If you do opt to reuse your SD cards, there are steps you can take to reduce the chance of corruption. Primarily, make sure to format your SD card in your camera properly before every use. This will clear any residual data and prepare the card for new files. Additionally, consider investing in a dependable SD card reader and using it consistently. This will lower the risk of physical damage to the card and ensure that it is read correctly every time.

The decision to reuse SD cards or buy new ones ultimately depends on your individual requirements and preferences. Although the fear of corruption is a valid concern, taking proper precautions such as formatting your card before each use and using a dependable card reader can help minimize the risk. With the cost of memory going down, it may also be more feasible to include the cost of a new SD card in the cost of a job. No matter what method you decide to take, make sure to prioritize data safety and dependability in all of your projects.

Your Legacy as a Photographer

I recently submitted some of my work to some Online Photos contests for the portrait category. For the first time in my career, I decided to give it a go. Entering contests always frightened me, however, Portraits are something I have plenty of. So I thought “Why not give it a go"? While I didn’t win, surprisingly I did come close on 2 of them, and while I didn’t get any of the prizes, I was within the top 10 for 2 of those comps, and those images were selected to be placed in 2 galleries. one in Athens and one in Montreal. (*shown below) While it is exciting, I don’t know if anything will ever come of it aside from people seeing them. It can be a nerve-wracking experience sending in your work for the first time, especially as a photographer. There is so much competition in our field. You put your heart and soul into your work so the thought of it being rejected can be discouraging. But it's important to remember that it's part of the creative process and to use it as a learning opportunity.

This led me to my next contemplation… What will be my legacy as a photographer?

After two decades in the photography industry, it can be disheartening to think that you don't have a lasting mark as a photographer. Something that will ‘withstand the test of time’. This might be especially true if you were solely focused on the business side of things as I was. We all have bills, and we all need to update our equipment and live. In these trying times it is easy to lose yourself in the business aspect. I don’t have a huge following on social media and am not ‘Internet Famous’ by any means, however, I was always able to find clients and get enough jobs to keep me running. But deep down I know that I am definitely not the Photographer I set out to be when I started down this path. Oftentimes, Professional Photographers can get so preoccupied with generating money and running their business that they can easily lose sight of their artistic vision and the impact they want to make.

Nevertheless, it's essential to remember that there is still an opportunity to make a difference and leave a meaningful legacy. Just because you were focused on business for the past 20 years doesn't mean you can't alter your focus and produce significant works that will stand the test of time. One way to do this is to initiate a personal project that is close to your heart. Perhaps you have had an idea for a project that’s been sitting on the back burner for all these years, or you have always been passionate about a certain issue but never had the time or resources to pursue it. Now is the time to do so. By using your photography skills to bring attention to an important matter you can make a real impact and leave a lasting legacy.

I also realize that another way to establish a lasting legacy is to mentor the next generation of photographers. Utilize your experience and expertise to aid aspiring photographers to learn the basics and create their own artistic vision. By sharing your capabilities and perspectives, you can help make sure that the art of photography will continue to flourish long after you are gone, and hopefully a piece of what you passed down. It's also crucial to remember that a lasting legacy doesn't necessarily have to be related to your photography work. You can make a difference in other ways, whether it is by volunteering, supporting a charity, or just being a considerate and compassionate person. Ultimately, it is never too late to make a difference and leave a lasting legacy. If you are feeling unsatisfied with your past years in photography, use that as motivation to start something new and meaningful. Whether it is by personal projects, mentoring, or other forms of giving back, you can make a real impact and ensure that your legacy will be remembered for years to come.

While I haven’t felt like exactly what my “Legacy” may be, I know it’s out there somewhere and I’m more aware of it now than I was before.

Keeping up with the curve: Staying Current on Photographic trends and Techniques

Being a photographer requires staying up to date with the most recent trends and techniques to ensure that clients are being provided with the best quality of service. Not only does having the most recent information allow for the production of better work, but it also keeps one ahead of the competition and builds a reliable customer base. Researching the latest trends and techniques helps to stay ahead of the curve and offer customers the most advanced and successful solutions to their needs. With the advancement of technology, new tools and software have become available which can enhance the quality of the work and speed up the time of completion. Even when I learn a new skill or trend it may be months before I get a chance to implement it. However, having that knowledge beforehand has helped me greatly.

Staying informed of these advancements and incorporating them into the workflow ensures better results for the client. For example, Adobe Photoshop is essential in my workflow for most advanced edits, and depending on the assignment I tend to lean towards Boris FX Optics for colours and effects (check out the examples below, and the video on my website: Adding Gobo effects in Post using Boris FX Optics). When I shoot commercials or people my go-to is Capture One for tethering. I also use some of the new AI software such as Aftershoot for culling, Imagen for colour and cropping (these two are great for weddings and events), and Topaz AI to boost sharpness. I will go into more detail regarding these programs and how they aid me in future posts.

Additionally, staying up to date with the most recent trends in your field can help you remain pertinent and attractive to your target audience. Such trends as minimalism, dark and moody, and candid style lifestyle shots for example can influence the way clients approach their projects and the type of images they seek. Keeping up with these trends makes it easier to tailor the work to meet their expectations and needs, and help them stay ahead of the competition.

image by Ian Schneider via Unsplash

Furthermore, staying up to date by either scrolling through social media, taking online editing or lighting courses, or just watching youtube can assist in gaining knowledge and skills that can separate a photographer from the rest and demonstrate expertise and professionalism to the clients. Clients look for someone who is able to deliver high-quality work quickly and within the budget. Investing in the skills and knowledge shows that one is devoted to providing the best possible service. Researching and keeping up with trends and discovering new techniques are essential to ensure that clients receive the best service. By staying informed and using the latest tools and trends, better results are delivered, ahead of the competition and a loyal customer base can be established.

Capturing the Essence: Why I love Brand, food and product Photography.

For photographers, there are many genres for us to choose from and specialize in. Some opt for weddings and events and are passionate about it. For me, I'm passionate about working with people as headshots and portraits are a large part of my business. However, when it comes to brands, food, and products I’m head over heels smitten. Here I'll explain why I'm so passionate about these genres.

Image taken for Tre Stelle

Firstly, I love the challenge that comes with branding photography. It's about conveying a brand’s story in a way that appeals to its target audience. A majority of my recent projects have been for social media with some small shoots for print. It's about finding the perfect angle, lighting, and composition to showcase the product or service in the best light. It's a creative task that I enjoy and I'm grateful for the opportunity to use my skills to help brands grow.

Secondly, food and drink photography is an art form that I adore. It's all about making them look as appetizing as possible. It's about capturing the textures, colors, and details that make the food unique. It takes attention to detail and patience, and I love the challenge of working with the chefs and cooks, making the food look so delicious that the viewer wants to take a bite out of it. Plus the added benefits of learning new techniques and recipes in my own kitchen.

Lastly, product photography is a genre I'm incredibly passionate about lately. It's about showcasing the product in a way that grabs people's attention. It's about highlighting the features and benefits of the product so that it's easy to understand. Finding the right angle and controlled lighting to highlight its unique features is a challenge I relish. Product photography is all about telling a story, and I'm honored to get to be a part of that story.

www.pinelmedical.com

In conclusion, I'm passionate about working with brands, food, and products. I love the challenges and the creativity that comes with bringing a brand, food, or product to life visually. If you're looking for a photographer to help you bring your brand to life, or to make your food or product look great, I'd love to be part of your journey.

Professional and Approachable: Your LinkedIn Profile Picture

Lets face it, having a professional headshot on your LinkedIn profile is important in today's digital age. It serves as your digital introduction to potential employers, clients, and colleagues, and it is essential to ensure that it is up-to-date and accurately reflects your personal brand. Here are some reasons why updating your headshot is so important.

1. It demonstrates credibility: A professional headshot conveys that you take your career seriously and care about your personal brand.

2. It creates a powerful first impression: Your headshot is often the first thing that people see when they visit your profile. An updated and professional headshot may help you make a strong and positive first impression.

3. It helps you stand out from the competition: A professional headshot may possibly help you catch the attention of potential employers, clients, or business partners.

4. Your headshot is a reflection of your personal brand. An updated headshot can ensure that your profile aligns with your brand and portrays you in the best possible light.

5. It shows your attention to detail: Having an updated and professional headshot can demonstrate that you are attentive to the small details.

When updating your headshot for LinkedIn, it is important to hire a professional photographer, dress professionally, and smile. Doing so can ensure that your headshot looks professional and polished, accurately reflects your personal brand, and helps you make a strong first impression. Most important… you resemble your Photograph. Your profile pic is usually the first thing that potential clients or employers look at, so when people view your profile they expect to see the person they will be interacting in real life. If your photo does not accurately represent you than it may create a sense of mistrust. A heavily edited photo, or a photo from 10 years ago may show you as insecure about your appearance. Updating your LinkedIn headshot is essential for creating a professional and strong personal brand, however it should show authenticity and make a first positive impression.

Collaborating with Large Companies: The Art of Capturing the Perfect Headshots for your teams!

Having corporate headshots is an essential part of any company's branding strategy. They are a way to show the human side of your business and give your clients a look at the people behind your brand. While studio headshots are popular, on-location shoots have become increasingly common in recent times. On-location shoots can add a more personal touch to your headshots and give a glimpse of your team in their natural environment.

Our photography team specializes in on-location corporate headshots. We know the importance of creating a comfortable atmosphere for our customers to make sure they look and feel their best. Our process is simple and effective and we take pride in giving clients high-quality images they can use for their website, social media, and other marketing materials. First, we collaborate with our clients to find the best place for the shoot. This could be in the office, or anywhere that reflects the company's brand. Once the location is set, we work on the details of the shoot which includes choosing the right equipment, setting up the lighting, and ensuring the environment is suitable for the shoot. On the day of the shoot, we go to the location and start getting ready. We then help each team member to feel comfortable in front of the camera. We show them poses and give advice on how to adjust their posture and expression to take the best possible shot.

We use high-quality equipment and lighting to capture the perfect headshot for each customer and have team members touch up the photos on the spot. After the shoot, we offer a convenient service that allows clients to download their photos right away. This saves them time and eliminates the need to wait for a photographer to edit and send them the images. Our clients like the convenience and efficiency of this service. They also like that they can get all their images at once instead of waiting for each image to be sent one at a time. This is particularly helpful for groups that need multiple headshots for their team. In conclusion, corporate headshots are an essential part of any business branding strategy. On-location shoots are a great way to add a personal touch to your team's headshots and show them in their natural environment. Our photography company is proud to provide high-quality on-location corporate headshots and an innovative service that allows clients to download their photos right away. If you are looking for a reliable and efficient way to capture your team's headshots, contact us today.

Trip to Portobello road: Teaching a small business to take their own brand Photos.

For small businesses, taking professional-looking product photos can be a daunting and expensive task. Hiring a professional photographer or purchasing expensive equipment may not be within their budget, but fortunately, there are affordable options available that can help them achieve high-quality product photos on their own. In this article, we will discuss how small businesses can take their own product shots or product reels using inexpensive LED lights, a digital camera, and even with a mobile phone.

Step 1: Setting up the Shot

The first step to taking professional-looking product photos is setting up a proper set. This involves selecting a clean and clutter-free background that will allow your product to stand out. This is where the majority of your time will be spent when you start your shoot. While you can use a white poster board or a plain-coloured fabric as a backdrop, which is great for product catalogue shots. For your particular brand, I recommend researching current trends online to see what’s popular. The key is to keep it simple so that your product can take center stage. For this shoot, we only used what was available in the shop.

Once you have your background in place, position your product in front of it. Depending on the size and shape of your product, you may need to use a stand or prop it up with something to get it into the right position. 

Step 2: Lighting

Lighting is crucial to creating a professional-looking product photo. Without proper lighting, your photo can look dull, flat, and unappealing. One of the most affordable lighting options for small businesses are LED lights. These lights provide a bright, clean, and consistent light source that can help highlight your product and bring out its best features. 

Position your LED lights on either side of your product and adjust their angles to achieve even lighting. You may also want to experiment with different angles to create shadows or highlights that can add depth and texture to your photo.

Step 3: Camera Settings

To capture the best possible photo, it's essential to adjust your camera settings. If you're using a digital camera, set it to the highest resolution possible, and use a low ISO setting to avoid grainy images. For mobile phone cameras, select the highest quality setting available and use the camera's built-in gridlines to align your shot.

If you're using a digital camera, adjust the aperture and shutter speed to control the depth of field and exposure. A lower aperture will create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and keeping the focus on your product. A higher aperture will create a deeper depth of field, keeping more of the background in focus.

Step 4: Editing

After taking your photos, you may want to do some editing to enhance their appearance. This can be done using free or low-cost photo editing software, such as Affinity Photo or GIMP. Other software like Adobe Photoshop or Lightroom tends to add up in costs as they are based on monthly subscriptions. A great mobile app that I use regularly is Snapseed by Google (which was used to edit the image below). Super easy to use. Some common edits include adjusting brightness and contrast, colour adjustments, cropping, and removing any unwanted objects.

Conclusion

Taking your own product shots can be a cost effective way for small businesses to create great branding photos that can showcase their products and attract potential customers. By following the steps outlined in this article, and with a little time, practice and experimentation, you can capture stunning images that will help your products stand out in a crowded market. You will be on your way to creating awesome-looking product photos using inexpensive LED lights, a digital camera, or a mobile phone.