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!
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.
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…
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.
