How To Organise Your Photography Business

Juggling the day to day running of a photography business can take time & efforts on your part. This is the work which no one likes, paperwork, invoices, etc. Important thing is not to replicate and duplicate things, this takes up more time than we realise and lost time equals losing money. Every business (photography or not) needs to have a system in place. Keeping track of your contacts, equipment, jobs, sales, purchases, marketing, diary & products and a lot more.

Many photographers use a spreadsheet to run their business. Spreadsheets are fine if you want to crunch numbers and perform automatic calculations, create charts, ‘what if’ scenarios or keep track of simple list of data. However, you will end up entering the same values of information into multiple spreadsheets. This is not time efficient and you need to update different files if you are tracking related information in several spreadsheets. When you use a spreadsheet, viewing the set of data is not easy and quite often requires lots of scrolling to view it!!

Alternative to spreadsheets is a database management system which will simplify your work and allow you more time to do whatever you want, whether being behind the camera or with your family! A database will help you manage all your day to day business tasks with ease, answer questions and solve problems, link related data, view data in different ways and a lot lot more…

Here is what you need to do simplify your day to day tasks:

1. Keeping track of your contacts i.e leads, customers, suppliers,

2. Sending quotations and confirmations of bookings in a professionally laid out PDF format

3. Manage your work flow tasks / reminders for things to do on specific dates

4. Raising sales invoices / inputting purchase invoices

5. Linking expenses / purchases to jobs for precise cost analysis

6. Sending / creating delivery notes to clients

7. Sending remittance notes to suppliers for payment

8. Email marketing to get your message across

9. Keeping track of all your camera / lenses / software serial numbers

10. Mail merging and sending letters to clients & prospects

11. Creating reports to see your sales, purchases, expenses

12. Forecasting figures v actual figures

13. Keeping track of appointments with a diary

14. and a lot more…..

Can you imagine trying to do all the above with spreadsheets, you cannot. It is possible but you will end up replicating and duplicating things and is very time consuming. What you need is to get or create your own database which will speed up your administrative tasks. If you are good with programming, you can create simple databases, but this will be time-consuming for you or you can buy an off-the-shelf program which is made for photographers.

So if you are starting a new photography business or in need of getting organised. I recommend you get a database and see how it will transform your business.

All You Need To Know About Boudoir Photography

What Is Boudoir Photography?

Historically, the term Boudoir was used to describe a ladys dressing room. In the early 1980s Boudoir photography was first used to refer to a type of intimate photography. Nowadays, its quite popular for women to have Boudoir photographs done, usually to surprise that special someone in their life. Boudoir photography sessions can be as varied as each individual. Each person has their unique opinion of what is sensual and beautiful and each photography session and resulting photos reflect that beauty.

What if I dont feel comfortable making Nude Photos?

A Boudoir Photography session should be fun! If youre uncomfortable posing for Nude photographs then dont do them. Every woman is beautiful and sexy. You dont have to take your clothes off to take gorgeous sensual photographs. Working in collaboration with an experienced photographer you can create amazing images clothed, partially clothed or implied nude (when the photographer sets the scene so that you appear to be nude but nothing is showing). Communication is key make sure that you have talked in detail with the photographer about your comfort levels and what your vision is of the finished product and trust that he or she will keep everything hidden that you want hidden. Thanks to modern digital technology it is not difficult to add in extra shadows or use blurring effects to make sure that the finished product is exactly what you want. Keep in mind also that some photographers may not shoot nude photographs, so if you are looking for nude photos ask!

But Im too old! Im too overweight! Im not pretty enough!

Every woman is beautiful and sexy! Ignore the overly skinny supermodels that you see everyday in advertisements! Real women are all around you and they are all beautiful. Be confident in yourself and your sensual nature. And be confident that your photographer is experienced and can arrange lighting and posing in order to capture your best side.

What do I wear?

Wear what you feel sexy in! A Boudoir Photography session has ample time for several wardrobe changes so bring any outfits you think you might want to wear and any accessories that go with it. Examples include a mans white dress shirt; a baseball jersey and ball cap; lacy nightie; a French maids costume (great use of old Halloween costumes) and feather duster; plaid mini skirt and white button down shirt and anything else you can imagine! Bring along a suitcase full of outfits. Dont forget high heeled shoes, necklaces, bracelets and other accessories hats, feather boas, etc. This is a good time to play dress up! Plan out your outfits ahead of time and try them on with different jewelry to see how they look. The photographer may also bring some additional accessories but you should ask about props ahead of time.

What about my Make-up?

Many ladies can do their own make-up but there are other options. Salons and department store make-up counters can be good resources or you can ask your photographer if they have someone they recommend. In most cases the photography studio can contract a make up artist for an additional fee. Dont feel compelled to wear a lot of make-up if it simply isnt your style.

Where should I have Boudoir Photographs taken?

These are not the kind of images that are on a check list at a mall portrait studio, they need to be personal and intimate. Many women choose a photographer who will come to their home and take photographs in their bedroom. Other women choose to go to the photographers studio and have their Boudoir session there. These days, though, Boudoir isnt limited to a bedroom setting and lingerie. A number of my own customers have come to me because they were intrigued by my Retro Pinup work. This is yet another option in Boudoir photography.

Nervous? What about a Group Photo Session?

You and three or four of your best girlfriends can get together and do your sessions at the same time. These can be done at the studio, your home or on location and should be approached with a party atmosphere. Each of you will be photographed individually as you are dressed (or undressed) based on each persons comfort level.
Some photographers (but not all) offer couples sessions. These sessions are romantic, sensual, playful, fun and always tasteful. If you are interested in this type of session make it part of a weekend away at a local hotel. This leaves you free from distractions and you will have some extra memories of the event.

Retouching

Many photographers include retouching with their portrait prints and albums but be sure to ask how much is included with your session. Most photographers will include minor retouching and color correction as part of their service after all they want their work to be well represented.

Protecting your privacy

Privacy should be a major concern during your boudoir sessions. All boudoir images are kept in strict confidence and no images will be shown without permission from the client in writing. Make sure your photographer has a privacy policy as well as any professional printers they may use.

Preparing for a Boudoir Photo Session

Wear loose fitting clothing. Avoid tight fitting undergarments as they are the most likely to leave elastic pressure lines on your skin. If you are not doing the session at your home bring as many accessories, outfits and ideas as you can. If you decide to not use everything then it is just a little extra to carry around but its far better then to wish you had brought something.

Top 6 Types Of Photography In Surrey

A photograph is a memorable part of our life. With help of photograph we can remember your past. Photograph captured moment, smiles are treasured; sparkles in the eyes are beloved and memories are cherished. A photograph is definitely worth a thousand of words and it has the power to convey a whole new meaning of a particular situation or incident. There are many types of photography available in surrey, which is related a specific area or function.

Types of photography:

1.Glamour and Fashion Photography: This type of photography is one of the lucrative photography. In the fashion world photographs are one of the most effective ways of communication. In fashion world Photography is used to bring attention to the clothes and accessories. Glamour photography normally includes models and it is well-known in men’s magazine and advertising since it focuses mainly on the model.

2.Wedding photography: Wedding photography is an activity, which is related to wedding. It includes photographs of couple before marriage as well as coverage of wedding and reception. It can be one of the most enjoyable and lucrative professions, but can also be most stressful and demanding.

3.Nature Photography: it is one of the most popular photography. There are limitless world’s natural beauty like breathtaking sunsets and waterfalls to fascinating volcanoes and mountains. Nature photography includes various other type of photography. These are landscape photography, wildlife photography, underwater photography, seascape photography and cloudscape photography.

4.Advertising Photography: this photography mainly used to sell a product. It is all about the product. They used the best way to highlight the product. It is only one of the many disciplines of professional photography. In small markets this type of photography is done by commercial photographers. It is not a discipline for the novice.

5.Fine Art Photography: It also known as art photography. It would require you to apply more thoughts and visualization skills to create a work of art. This type of photography is not always meant for commercial purpose, but today, we can see this photography being used for promotional purposes as well.

6. Photojournalism: a photograph of this type of photography is all about telling a story about a particular event or incident. This type of photography is mostly used by publications to represent the latest news. It divided into the several parts. Documentary photography, Street Photography, Celebrity Photography and Sports Photography all these are the parts of photojournalism.

Catalog Photography Its role in improving your business

What is the first and foremost thing that you would do if you are planning to showcase your products to a wider audience? The obvious answer is to make a catalog. A catalog is nothing but a platform for you to showcase your products. Customers have the advantage to view the products very easily and quickly. A good catalog inadvertently leads to a spike in sales.

Which brings us to the question, what are the most important components of a good catalog? The Product is obviously the most important aspect of any good catalog. Your product has to be highlighted in the best possible manner and a good photograph will help you achieve this aim. It is only the image of the product that helps a person to either pause and take a longer glance at a product or just flip through the pages uninterestingly. There are a few things that are to be given attention to when taking a good photograph. First and foremost, a good photograph starts with good equipment. Ensure to spend in a good seamless background, adequate studio lighting and a solid camera tripod for camera stability.

Then comes the product; never forget that the product is the hero. The best catalog product photographs feature the product with stunning clarity and neutral back drop. Thus, when you do so, the product jumps from the page, appears larger and seems to be more versatile.

It is best if group photos are avoided. Its found that individual photos produce more sales than group photos.

Try and use the suppliers art sparingly, the main reason behind this is that a supplier does not sell directly to the consumer but sells to you. He need not produce high quality design. Using the suppliers art could have negative effect on the catalog design.

The lighting is also of utmost importance. The typical aim is to give a three dimensional feel to a two dimensional product image, something that would make the viewer want to pick up with his hands. Typical lighting would include powerful strobe lights, special soft lights, reflectors and macro lenses.

What is also important is the mood of the photograph. A good photographer always brings an atmosphere with the products that are showcased. Sometimes, some products need to carry brand image along with the catalog. If that is the case, then ensure that focus is never shifted from this. The atmosphere also plays a crucial part in this kind of photography. The props that are used bring out the environment in a very subtle way.

A catalog is any retailers sales document .He should invest proper time and money on a good photographer, a good photography is many a times the only difference between average sales and path breaking sales. A good photographer always needs to have a keen sense of marketing. He also spends time in understanding the product, understanding the target audience and even the competition in your market.

Catalog photographs are the only way to convince the customer about a products quality and every retailer ought to exploit this aspect of marketing.

Give a personal touch to Melbourne Street Photography by Knowing more about the working of your cam

Melbourne Street Photography is a result of man’s fascination to capture a live moment for the entire lifetime. Photography originated more than a century ago, but has been in a constant state of evolution since then. Simultaneously, this has also led to the advancement in cameras, the device which makes photography possible. Today we have come a long way from blurred black & white photos to ultra clear digital photographs at the dint of the modern cameras.

With the help of a camera, we can capture a live moment for an entire lifetime, in the form of a photograph. Professional Photography Melbourne insulates the reality, exposing to us the facts of our time: war, abuse, terrorism and poverty. These days there are a huge variety of cameras available in the market along with the other related camera accessories. The latest rage among the people nowadays is the digital cameras which are the most advanced version of a camera. The majority of Melbourne Photographer prefers to use digital cameras that come in various sizes ranging from small ones to bigger ones.

Well, some compact cameras are small enough to fit in your handbag or pocket, but still purchasing a camera case is recommended to save your camera from unnecessary wear and tear. It is interesting to note the fact that both the digital camera and the traditional camera are based on a common working principle. Both types of cameras have Lenses, that focus the image as well as control how the picture will look (wide or telephoto). The lens is also among the most significant factors in determining overall image quality. The better the camera lens quality, the sharper and more clear your image and vice versa. Also, shutters control the duration of the exposure in both types of cameras. So, the main difference between both the cameras is the way in which the light is recorded. The traditional camera has a film and the digital camera has a sensor and a processor.

But as always, purchasing a new digital camera can be a very awesome experience. Technology is frequently changing and there seems to be upgraded version of the cameras out every month. So, with these rapid changes, you need to have a thorough understanding of the technology to ensure that you purchase the right camera.

If you are searching a photographer, who is expert in Melbourne Street Photography, online or pursue the advices from friends, the foremost thing you must do is to check out their work portfolio. This will aid you in understanding which pictures you should have. To take the right decision it is suggested to get some reviews from their previous clients. Getting customer feedback is quite simple if you are searching a photographer online. Therefore, make sure you read what people say about the him, prior considering to hire him.