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So you want to be a photographer? In today’s evolving technology world, it is becoming increasingly easier to take pictures on devices such as smartphones and tablets. But that does not necessarily make you a photographer.
The quality of photographs you can take on a smartphone have gotten better in recent years, especially with photo editing applications like Snapseed, Pic Stitch, Photoshop Express, Photoshop Touch or even Instagram. But if you want to take your photography a step further, here are some tools to help you on your journey to becoming a true photographer.
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Photo Editing Software
Probably the best, as well as most well-known photo editing software, is Adobe Photoshop. The program has been around for ages, but recently has expanded to the mobile market as well. Photoshop is a great program for editing simple photo features to even extremely advanced projects. There are several Photoshop products to choose from, including some even free of charge, although the free mobile apps feature slightly less functionality than the desktop or laptop software. Adobe Photoshop CC can be purchased for as low as $9.99 a month for one year.
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Reflector
Another great tool for the aspiring photographer is a 5-in-1 reflector. This tool is used by portrait photographers, especially for outdoor portraits, to avoid harsh shadows. You can also get a large disc that comes with it to reflect sunlight on the face. The aspiring photographer can get a 5-in-1 reflector for about $40 from B&H Photo.
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Detachable Flash
A great accessory that will help you take a step toward being considered a serious photographer is getting a detachable flash. The benefit of using a detachable flash for your camera is a cleaner look that softens your image and provides better illumination. The lighting also tends to look a bit more natural. Canon is one of, if not the best option, for an external flash and can be purchased for about $300.
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Remote Switch
If you want to have the ability to control your camera without actually physically snapping the photos, you should consider a camera remote switch. There are wired or wireless options to choose from. If you want to get in your own picture, simply press the button to snap the photo. One consideration is that you will likely need to have the camera sit on a tripod for this to work. Or if you are attempting to time your photos, the remote control definitely comes in handy. Say goodbye to those dreaded selfies forever with a camera remote switch.
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Tablet
Photographers who want to view their pictures right away to see if they captured the perfect shot should have a tablet with them. Often when looking at the small image on a digital camera it is tough to tell how good or bad your photo actually was. A tablet that features a Snapdragon mobile processor, like the Sony Xperia Tablet Z, is great for viewing high quality photos. As long as you have a tablet with a USB port or slot for a memory card you can view your photos and adjust the shot if needed.
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Drone
One of the most high tech features for cameras nowadays are the use of drones and quadcopters, which are very common now for both video and still photography use. You can attach your phone, tablet or your standalone camera to a flying drone and film the scenery around you if you want to show the lay of the land. Take it to the beach, use a drone controller and film surfers catching waves. Or take it through to a wedding to get a different perspective on the magical event.
If you’re looking to take your photography skills to the next level, ditch that smartphone and opt for one of these helpful tools.
