Without images of our work, how else can we effectively communicate the quality of our work, details, our overall professionalism?
"Images" is the new "text" in websites, social media channels and in publications, both in print and online. Image use has simply exploded, especially in the past 2 years. Keeping up with the demand for images from others as well as the opportunities to distribute our images increases the pressure to have those images available, and available on short notice.
Interestingly, we have seen the quality of photography get better and better on design blogs as design bloggers, most of whom have an intrinsically creative streak, experiment with photography and even create their own photographic "look." And how does that translate to photographing kitchens?
This topic is so broad that if there is interest, this will be a two-part chat, with the second part taking place in two weeks.
This is NOT a chat about copyright issues or ownership issues. It's about how we can raise the quality level of our own images, the ones we take ourselves and how we can accumulate a library of images to suit various needs.
As a serious amateur photographer for several decades, previous owner of a darkroom, obsessive photographer and photographic software aficionado, I will be a voice to lend insight on this topic. Here is a bit more on my photographic life in this little site I made just for fun. All others with photographic experience are warmly welcomed to share their knowledge in this chat!
QUESTIONS:
1. Do you (always) use a professional photographer or do you (always) take your own images of your work, or both? Is "good enough" good enough?
2. How can kitchens be most effectively photographed? What are your tricks and tips?
3. What are your favorite online web album storage sites for storage as well as for distribution sites for new clients/editors, etc?
4. Do you "post process" your images, i.e., fix your images for exposure, crop, contrast, white balance etc? Which program do you use?
5. What is your favorite camera equipment, products, general tips for making your photography "good enough?"
BRANDS - Please provide YOUR insight on acceptable imagery for your social media channels and other use.
First image is right out of the camera and the second image is...tweaked (it is not styled so please disregard that element of the image.)
