Many think a photographer just presses a button. In reality the actual shooting is often the shortest part of the work. Most time goes to preparing communicating with the customer and post-processing the images so they become exactly as they should be.
§Before recording
A good picture begins before the camera comes out. You clarify with the customer what the pictures will be used for: a website an advert a portrait for the family or documentation of an event. The purpose determines everything — from format and lighting to how many pictures you deliver.
- 01Clarify the purpose of the images and where they will be used.
- 02Plan drives to match the chosen RPO
- 03Check and charge batteries and memory cards
- 04Pack equipment according to the task — take an extra lens with you.
§During recording.
Here you work with three basic settings that together determine how the image becomes. If you understand the interaction between them, you can control the camera instead of letting the camera control you.
| Setting | What it controls | Consequence |
|---|---|---|
| Aperture | How much light comes in, and depth of field | Small aperture gives more focus; large aperture gives background blur |
| Closing time | How long the light hits the sensor | Short shutter speed freezes movement; long shutter speed can give blur |
| ISO | The sensor's light sensitivity | High ISO helps in the dark but can give image noise |
At the same time you pay attention to composition: Where do you place the subject in the image? What is the background? Where does the light fall? Part of the craft is also getting people to relax in front of the camera so the portrait looks natural.
§After recording
Back at the computer you select the best images, adjust colours, light and contrast and retouch as needed. You keep track of your files so you can find them again and deliver in the format and resolution the customer needs. Good file organisation is a large part of being professional — not just the beautiful image.
Finally it is about delivering on time and in the agreed quality. Satisfied customers come back and recommend you further, and in photography the trade your reputation and your pictures are your most important marketing.