Photos of Your Work
A picture is worth a thousand words.
When displaying samples of your work, you want it to be your very best. You want the photos to look professional so you look professional. You are proud of your work and you want to display it as such. When creating a website, a Facebook Fan Page, a blog or any other form of advertising, you want it to look its best! I recommend hiring a professional photographer.
Here are a few tips on why using a professional photographer will enhance your publications and social media:
1. Date Stamp: A professional photographer will not “date stamp” the picture. Having the date in the bottom right corner will bring the quality of the photo down tremendously.
2. Clean Photo: A professional photographer will be sure to have a “clean” photo. For example, if you are in construction, the photographer will take the picture so the huge pile of garbage is not in the shot. He/she will make sure that the area is clear so that if you are a landscaper, you won’t have hoses drawn across the lawn, shirtless workers or trucks in the background. He/she will recommend removing the children’s toys from the side yard so it doesn’t distract from that gorgeous flower bed you just created. He/she will recommend removing your tools from the countertop and stain cans from the area so you have a great shot of your work.
3. Lighting: A professional photographers will adjust the lighting to enhance the photo. The photographer can advise on how the weather will affect the shot. They also know what to do to prevent or avoid the extreme shadows and highlights that reduce the clarity of the photo. Experts know how to make the picture a clear, clean, sharp photo of your work.
4. Clear Photo: Simply, a good photographer will keep him/her self out of the photo. It can be difficult to keep your finger, your shadow, and your reflection out of the shot. Taking a picture of a room with lots of mirrors is particularly hard. Professionals know how to make the photo work without being in the middle of the shot. Sometimes it is better to take detail shots (close-ups) of the space versus a full area shot.
Great photos have a huge impact. There are other options if you are unable to hire a photographer. You can use representations of your work. Stock photography is a great option but your work is ALWAYS better. I recommend www.unsplash.com for great looking photos (don’t use them for your gallery/portfolio/samples page). Be sure to read the fine print of other stock photo sites. Many have hidden fees and strict rules. Unsplash is completely FREE!
Show off your work, talent, and skills. Have professional pictures. It’s the best way to go!
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