One of the most popular questions I get from readers is, “Who does your photography?” And I’m happy to be able to say that my husband takes about 90% of my photos. And he does a GREAT job! Case in point, these beautiful shots he took of me last week (outfit details at the end of the post).
But as much as I would like to hire him as my full time photographer, he actually has a real world job that needs him. That means there are times when I’m flying solo. Over time, I figured out some ways to approach solo photography and I want to share my tips and tools for getting the perfect shot with you.
Don’t Let Solo Photography Get You Down
Just because you might be venturing out on your own, sans partner or friend, doesn’t mean you can’t get the perfect shot (with yourself actually IN the photo). The world is full of solo travelers, single entrepreneurs, and people like me who sometimes get invited to things without a “plus 1.” Rather than feel disappointed that you’ll strictly be pointing and clicking, get creative.
Ask a Friend
I’ve been meeting up with another blogger friend of mine, Trish from Late By Lattes, for coffee and photography. We call these “sip n’ shoots.” Because we are both creatives, we know what we’re looking for in the perfect shot and we aren’t afraid to speak up about the kind of photo we are trying to create. We aren’t professional photographers, but we understand each other and are willing to help each other out. Plus, we are friends and it’s always nice to get together with a friend for some coffee.
Whenever I’m at an event with other bloggers I know, we are usually snapping photos of each other. Just don’t be shy. Ask your friend, “Hey, can you take a few photos of me?” Make sure to be as specific as you can with how you’d like the photo to look (and be nice about it) and then tell them to snap around 10-20 quickly. You should get at least one that looks pretty good.
Get a Tripod
I use this tripod all the time and love it because it’s lightweight and inexpensive. I also use this tabletop tripod because it can be clamped to just about anything at any angle. I use both tripods for my Nikon as well as my iPhone. I purchased this tripod adapter for iPhone and use it primarily to record videos. It’s also inexpensive and has worked great.
Use the Self-Timer
I use the self-timer on both my Nikon and my iPhone all the time. The 10 second timer usually gives me enough time to step in front of the camera and pose how I like. I usually try a few different poses before I find “the one” so this process takes a bit of practice. When using my Nikon, I will flip the viewfinder screen to face me so I can actually see myself and make sure I’m not cutting off my head or feet.
Use a Wireless Remote Shutter
I purchased this wireless remote for Nikon for under $9 and it works pretty well. I’m sure there are better ones out there but this one works and was really cheap. A wireless remote allows you to take photos faster than using the self-timer because you don’t have to walk back and forth to the camera to click the shutter. You can remain in position, aim your remote at your camera, and click away. There is a delay setting on the camera to give you time to stash the remote in your purse or pocket.
Use Camera WiFi and Your Phone
I use the Nikon camera app and can set up my shots through my iPhone. There is a self-timer function here as well, giving you time to stash your phone before snapping the photo. Plus, I can see the composition of the photo on my iPhone so I know I’m getting what I want. If you have a WiFi enabled DSLR, there should be an app to download in order to do it this way.
Tools for Editing Photos
I use Lightroom, both the mobile and desktop versions. I am completely self-taught and it takes a while to master, but there are a ton of YouTube videos out there to help. I use Lightroom presets to help save me time when editing. Then I usually just have to adjust exposure and color. Lightroom is especially good for editing photos taken with my Nikon, but I also use the mobile version for iPhone photos.
About My Outfit
I could not be more satisfied with this dress! It’s from my beautiful friends at GG’s House Boutique in Helotes and for someone who said I’d never really wear animal print on this scale, I admit I was wrong because I fell in love with it immediately. It’s a subtle black on tan print, making accessories easy. I love the sleeve details and how it nips in at the waist. I really feel like it would be flattering on a lot of body shapes because of the cut and the quality of the fabric. It’s also fully lined so it’s very forgiving in all those “trouble” spots. It was the perfect dress to wear to the Art and The Animal Exhibit Preview Party at the Briscoe Western Art Museum last week. The show runs now through January 5th – don’t miss it!
Recreate the look:
Contact GG’s House for Dress (similar here) | Heels | Clutch (similar here) | Sunglasses
I’d love to know some of your “secret” photography tips – let’s chat in the comments!
xo – Erin
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Solo Photography: My Tips & Tools for Getting the Perfect Shot By Yourself appeared first on CathedralsandCafes.com. If you see this content published anywhere else, please email cathedralsandcafes@gmail.com.
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