Author

Mark Bailey

Advice

Five ways that IT contractors can benefit your photography business

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

If you run a photography business, then you will have all the knowledge you need around taking good pictures for a living. As this is the main skill required, that is a great thing. However, all the time you have rightfully spent honing your photography skills may mean that your IT skills are not as fabulous as they could be.

This could actually be a real barrier to being able to make your photography business a success. Technology plays a huge role in not only how people find you but also how they research which photographer to use and how they engage with you. Not using modern IT effectively will see you lag way behind your competitors, however good your pictures are.

What can you do if you do not like dealing with IT or do not have the skills needed to use it? In these cases, an IT contractor could be just what you require.

Amazing ways IT contractors can help you succeed

Here are some specific reasons why it makes sense to bring someone in to complete those IT projects for you:

  • Saves time and money – the problem with trying to handle all your IT jobs yourself is that it can sometimes need hours of research to learn what to do and then additional time to do it. If you get stuck or have to go back to fix any mistakes, then that is more wasted time. Do not forget that this is time you could be out meeting new clients or actually taking photos. Hiring an IT contractor stops you wasting valuable time and opportunities to make money. They simply get on with the job at hand while you focus on taking pictures.
  • Helps to keep you secure online – many photography businesses now will use digital styles of photography and store pictures taken on their own computers. This is popular with clients who like the convenience of having them emailed over or want to view them via your own website. With new GDPR laws and general concerns over cybercrime, this makes having effective IT protection key. Hiring in an IT contractor can help here as they can review your security arrangements and strengthen them if needs be.
  • Review and recommend – along with looking at how your IT security can be improved, hiring an IT contractor will allow you to have an expert review your current setup. This could be from the IT equipment you use to the software packages you access or the operating system you run on. An IT contractor can come in and complete this kind of one-off project before helping to implement any recommendations given.
  • Design a website to attract customers – if you do not have a user-friendly website currently, then an IT contractor can design and build one for you. It is as simple as finding the contractor you like and agreeing their fee along with the timescale. This will help you be visible online, which is how many people will search for photographers to use now.
  • Fills in IT skills gap – some creative people do not get on with IT – if this applies to you, then getting a contractor in is the quickest and simplest way to solve this. If you have a particular task you need help with, such as setting up social media accounts or creating a slideshow for your website, then they can be hired to do just that. If you get a contractor who is knowledgeable about IT products specific to photography, such as photography software, then they can also help you use this more effectively for better results.

Make sure to use an umbrella company

An umbrella company simply acts as a third party that operates between you and the contractor you hire to manage their payroll. Doing this yourself is a bit of a pain and will take up time that you could be out shooting new photos. If you use an IT contractor that operates via an umbrella company, then you simply pay the umbrella company and leave them to do the rest in terms of payroll management, HMRC compliance and dealing with the contractor’s wages.

IT is an area worth getting help in

As noted above, IT is an area that you cannot ignore if you want your photography business to flourish. Many photographers though will not have the need to employ an IT person on a permanent contract. With this in mind, IT contractors give the ideal mixture of fast, expert help that is quick to access but you only pay for when needed.

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Camera Bag

Flying with A Camera

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Travelling to your vacation destination by air can be a challenge especially when you are seeking to get on board with your camera. Although the security deployed at the airport is vital, it definitely makes it harder for travellers to carry some items into the plane. If you’re planning to fly with a camera, then you need to buckle up for the effort you must put into going through security. Most importantly, you must consider how to pack the other equipment that accompanies your camera.

One of the things that make it difficult to carry a camera on the plane is the fact that airports frequently change the requirements. For instance, the size of bag that can be allowed on the plane or type of equipment can be revised over and over again. To avoid any misunderstanding at the airport, make sure you check the current guidelines on the website of the airline that you’ll be using. Browse through the TSA website carry on regulations as well just to be on the safe side.

Here are some more tips that can help you.

Use a plain box

Carrying your camera in its original box is likely to attract a thief seeing as airports are usually a bit crowded. To avoid such a situation, you should wrap the camera in a brown paper or put it in another box. This will help to put the attention away from your camera. You can then be sure that the camera will remain safe.

Have a tightly packed bag

Once you decide where to put your camera, make sure it is tight. You do not want to be running around the airport while your lens is crashing into another. The best option is using a bag that has compartments with a padded lining in between. Make sure you pack the camera, flash and lens in separate areas to prevent any friction between them. You can also use the padding that came with the camera every time you travel.

Detach the lens

Always remember to detach the lens from the camera when you are packing it. If for some reason the camera is misplaced and puts pressure on the lens, it can easily damage the lens. Make sure you pack them separately and use the caps that protect the lens when packing them. You should have some that came with the original box.

Use a small bag

You should pack your camera in a bag that is small enough to go onto the plane. The last thing you need is to check in your camera into the luggage section or have to pay for having an extra bag. TSA advises that all electronics and batteries should not go into the checked luggage but should instead fit in your carry on bag.  Therefore, as you plan your trip, make sure your camera bag is small enough to fit in the carry on bag.

Carry extra equipment

It’s advisable to carry an extra battery when you’re going through the security checks. Sometimes the security personnel may ask you to switch the camera on just to make sure it is real. To avoid any confusion or confrontation at the checks, make sure you carry the battery with you.

Carry all the cameras in one bag

As we speak, the TSA does not have regulations that require your DSLR and still camera to be separated when screening is undertaken. The only specification outlined is on the large electronics that the security personnel must remove from your bag and X-ray them. However, if the camera is a small digital camera, you can put it in the carry on bag which usually goes through the electronic screening. If security asks to screen even the small camera separately, do not be alarmed. However, make sure you go through the TSA website before you travel to see if any amendments have been made.

Keep the batteries safe

When carrying multiple batteries, avoid putting them together or having them loose in the bag. If the batteries accidentally come into contact and the terminals rub against each other, they are likely to short circuit, hence start a fire. The same could happen if the terminals rub against any metal like your keys. To avoid this tragedy from happening, make sure you store all batteries separately when you board the plane. At the same time, ensure the storage space is not squeezed and that nothing will crash the batteries. Most batteries are made of lithium and Li-ion which are dangerous chemicals and can be harmful is they leak outside the battery.

Keep it off

It is advisable to keep your DSLR camera off when on the plane or not in use. You can use a duct tape to keep the off knob from moving and switching the camera on. This prevents your camera from being on and using up your batteries if you had left them in.

The X-Ray is safe

Do not be hesitant to pass your camera through the X-Ray because it is safe. It will not harm your memory card or erase any data that was earlier stored.

Keep the camera close to you at all times

The worst case scenario is for you to get to your vacation destination and realize that you have lost your camera. If this happens to you, you can call the airport to help you find it. However, if you are sure you lost it at the TSA checkpoint, then you can call the TSA directly and they will look for it in the lost and found section. You can get this number on the TSA website under the lost and found tab.

Use a case with extra padding

If the camera is too big to get inside the carry on bag, or you just want to check it into the luggage, make sure your suitcase has extra padding. It should also have a lock that can be opened by the TSA officers without damaging your bag or tearing it. You can check the TSA website for the approved locks recommended by the TSA. TSA will always lock the bag after they are done with an inspection. The best suitcase would be one with a hard impenetrable side but has extra padding inside it to cushion your camera equipment. It’s best to look at different camera equipment reviews to make an educated decision.

Get insurance for your camera

If you have expensive equipment and you usually travel with it, you should get them insured. This way, if the camera or equipment get lost, stolen or breaks while flying, you will have them protected. Although the premium payable to your insurance company is quite expensive, it will be relaxing to know that in case of anything, your investment is safe.

Adhering to these do’s and don’ts will make your travel easy and reduce your anxiety as you go through the security checks. Remember to keep your camera on you at all times. You never know when an amazing opportunity to take a spectacular shot from the plane.

It is very common for people to lose their cameras and other valuables in the airport. The rush and anxiety that comes when people are getting on the flight highly contributes to this. To avoid being another statistic, keep your camera close to your bag at all times. Make sure it is at a place you can always see it as you get on the plane or navigate the different checkpoints.

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Advice

How to Stop Worrying About Your Camera When Travelling

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Travelling and cameras go hand in hand like peanut butter and jam. It’s almost unthinkable to imagine someone travelling to exotic places without having a trusty camera hanging from your neck and ready to snap the next killer picture that will land on your social media pages and garner all those virtual likes and tags. Almost unthinkable. Because let’s face it, in this digital age sometimes the whole purpose of going anywhere is to collect those precious pictures and show family, friends, and total strangers what an exciting life you’re having. But whether photography is your bread and butter or just a hobby, we all know that travelling with expensive equipment like cameras comes with its own risks. The camera could be stolen, misplaced, or damaged as you travel from one place to another.

Taking Care of Your Expensive Gear

If you have watched any movies or National Geographic documentaries about photographers in the wild you undoubtedly have noticed how rough those cameras have it. The photographer slings it to their shoulder as they run chasing the next picture and the cameras bump into each other and fly wildly behind the photographer’s back. Granted you won’t treat your cameras the same way because you won’t be chasing wildebeests or running away from lions in Africa, but air travel and luggage handlers at airports would have the same impact on your precious equipment.

So making sure you use a padded suitcase and wrapping your camera in a bundle of clothes before packing will protect it from damage. Or you can just keep your gear in a handbag and keep it with you on the plane. Also, remember to clean your camera every day. Depending on where your work or travels take you, the elements can damage your camera. Dust, for example, can get behind the lens and reduce the quality of your pictures.

Keeping it Safe

Another risk you face as you travel is thieves. Cameras are notoriously easy targets for thieves because how easy it is to yank them off your shoulder or cut the straps and making run for it. This is particularly more probable in busy cities where you literally rub shoulders against many people. Your branded camera is a magnet for would-be thieves.

So the first thing you need to do is remove or hide the branding. Debranding the camera so that it looks plain will make it less of a target. If it still looks shiny and alluring in its new bag, dirty the camera bag a little. On the same vein and to prevent camera snatching consider using a wire camera strap. The steel wire will make it a lot harder for the bandit to slash the strap and disappear in the crowd with your pricey equipment.

Another way to discourage thieves is to use old-fashioned cameras that shoot on film. Digital cameras are hot and any fence would have no trouble moving them. But film cameras are not easy to resell whether in person or online. So maybe keep your digital camera at home and take the film camera the next time you travel.

Claiming Insurance in case of Loss or Damage

Buying an insurance policy for your camera is a good idea especially if you’re travelling with expensive equipment. Look closely at what the policy covers. The more comprehensive coverage the better even if it means you have to pay a little more. If the worst happens and you lose your camera don’t delay the claim. Always keep your insurance policy details with you and make the claim as soon as you get back. The fine print of your policy would probably set a deadline of making a claim within the first 31 days after losing or damaging your equipment. So don’t delay your claim otherwise it might be rejected, or have to fight for your rights and hire an insurance claim solicitor.

Keep in mind that the insurance company doesn’t always, in fact rarely, pay the whole amount that your camera is worth. In most cases, they will decide what the camera is currently worth using a clause called depreciation. This clause stipulates that a piece of equipment even if it’s only one day old, loses value the more you use it. So you might end up getting only a fraction of the retail price you paid for your brand new camera.

Keeping your camera safe while you travel is easy if you follow some simple steps. Then you can learn to stop worrying and love travelling.

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Brands

Beat Black Friday Nikon Camera Deals

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Black Friday is a great day to acquire some new tech, and Nikon camera equipment is some of the most wanted!

Black Friday is coming! On Friday 23rd November, the day following Thanksgiving in the States, retailers of all shapes and sizes will be offering heavy discounts on their product lines. When it comes to camera technology, there are some phenomenal deals to be had. If you’re looking forward to getting your hands on a new camera, or perhaps some accessories such as a higher quality lens, filter or even a new case, then Black Friday is most definitely the right time to be looking for a bargain.

Of course, if you want to spend your money wisely, then it helps to focus on the camera range of a reputable brand and Nikon is one of the best in the industry. They’re known for manufacturing ergonomic digital and film cameras which operate well in low-light and produce sharp images. Here are some models to look out for as soon as the Black Friday prices are slashed!

Nikon D300S

This compact SLR camera has a 12.3mpx CMOS sensor and is a great option for shooting film. Photographers can easily move from snapping quality stills in low light, and then switch to capturing footage with two live view modes and in-camera editing features. The camera body is encased in a magnesium alloy material which is light to hold, yet withstands any typical knocks. This Nikon model is one of the most affordable in the range.

Nikon D7500

This model is a significant overhaul of the existing D7xx range and is a solid option for anyone considering a new DSLR camera. It uses a 20.9MP CMOS sensor in conjunction with an EXPEED 5 image processor. The sensor is slightly lower than others in the series, but the reduction in resolution is beneficial when it comes to sensitivity. In terms of video output, the D7500 boasts 4K UHD shooting at 30, 25 and 24p for up to 30 minutes. However, you can also shoot in lower-res to playback in slow-motion and vibration reduction ensures that there’s no wonky footage when you’re videoing.

Nikon D500

This camera is perfect for those who need to shoot the action, at a rapid pace. The D500 is the brand’s flagship APS-C camera and shoots at 10fps with a 200-image buffer. Although the sensor is small, again it’s combined with the preferred EXPEED 5 processor for optimum processing. This model also shoots video at 4K UHD, and uses a nifty feature called Snapbridge providing a Bluetooth connection to your smartphone – perfect for storing your images and sharing them.

Black Friday is a great opportunity to grab one of these models or others from Nikon’s impressive range at incredible prices. However, there’s no doubt that quality camera tech can put a bit of a dent in your wallet, even when the deals are red-hot. One way to raise some cash is to sell used Nikon camera models and put the acquired funds towards an upgrade. Such a trade-in is easy to arrange – you simply obtain a quote, send in your camera equipment to be checked and you’ll receive the payment immediately. Get in there quickly so you’re ready to capture some magical memories this Christmas!

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Tips and Techniques

Figuring Out The Right GoPro Accessory For Priceless Shots

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

The advent of cameras has opened a lot of possibilities, including the ability to take rare photos and videos even while underwater. There are plenty of rugged video options anyone can consider, the choice of which depends on one’s budget. But for folks who want to play it safe, GoPro is a brand that stands out.

Known to be one of the more reliable cameras one can consider, GoPro is the best choice for folks who are looking for quality shots and videos. It is the sane choice for anyone looking for a rugged and waterproof camera that can capture flawless videos and high-resolution photos. Among the features their camera line has to offer include voice control and live streaming – all packed in a compact device.

All one has to do is purchase one and dunk under water to start their photo and/ or video capturing escapades. But similar to the traditional cameras, folks who have them are looking for something to deliver the best quality will need some aid in the form of accessories. There are several useful pieces to check.

Kits

There are plenty of must-have go pro accessories that anyone can consider. For travelers, the ultimate choice to get is the Go Pro Travel Kit. This package includes a Shorty (a mini extension pole and a tripod), a sleeve/ lanyard and a compact case. It is compatible with most HERO cameras, and something that camera owners will find handy – especially when they want to take stable shots anywhere.

For those who are looking for more, the Adventure Kit should be an ideal alternative. It is an ideal choice for folks who love to go biking or snorkeling. Making up this package is a Handler (a floating hand grip), a head strap and quick clip. These are mounts that will come in handy for people who want to take the best shots in the outdoors.

There is also the Sports Kit for the ones who take it to the extreme. It includes a Chesty (performance chest mount), a handlebar, rubber inserts (large and small), a compact case, a vertical mounting bike, and a thumb screw. The chesty is something that should come in handy, one that helps position the camera for people who want to capture the scenery in front of them. If not, the handlebar or seapost should suffice.

While all these kits are handy, be reminded that the items comprising each can be purchased separately. Also, it would be best to avoid using accessories that are not authentic from GoPro.

Other essential accessories

Like most gadgets of today, one needs to also consider getting spare batteries and chargers to make sure that the camera is up and running at all times. Rechargeable batteries and chargers are available and priced reasonably.

Another must-have for Go Pro camera owners is the Floaty. It is easy to use and something that keeps the camera afloat. It was designed to add further protection to Go Pro cameras and even includes easy access to the shutter button. There is also an adhesive anchor and camera tether included for added security that comes in handy during extreme conditions.

For the folks who love to take selfies, there is also a GoPro stick to consider. There is an official 3-Way made for GoPro, an extendable arm that can also double as a tripod. It comes with a comfortable grip, making it an ideal choice for folks who want shots underwater or even when windsurfing or wakeboarding.

Most of the accessories mentioned are for complimenting folks who want to take great shots in the outdoors. One other essential need is a memory card to make sure that one does not run out of space. With most expected to want high-resolution photos or videos, expect the cards to fill up fast. Hence, it would be best to have a spare in tow to avoid having to transfer or even delete photos to make room.

There are plenty of accessories for GoPro cameras and it will depend on the owner on which among them is needed. It would be best to figure out first one’s passion and itinerary and then decide which kit or accessory is suited for one’s need.

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Trends

5 Awesome Backdrops for Destination Weddings

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Let’s face it, the reason we choose a destination wedding isn’t just to get away from the stresses of a wedding back home (the guest list, the seating plan and the playlist being just a few of the obstacles prospective couples have to navigate).  No, the top reasons for going overseas are to guarantee good weather and to exchange vows in some of the most jaw-droppingly amazing locations in the world. These settings will not only ensure you and your guests have an unforgettable and unique wedding day, but they’ll also provide awesome backdrops for your wedding photos.

We’ve compiled compile a roundup of the best destination wedding locations you might like to consider, if you’re looking for the striking and unusual:

Italy – Coastal Glamour

Italy has it all – beautiful scenery, delicious food and it’s steeped in history, so you’re assured of some magnificent locations for your wedding ceremony. If you want awe-inspiring vistas, then look no further than the Amalfi coast. Think historic villages tightly clung to the rock, with amazing panoramas – from plunging ravines to medieval palazzos and exotic gardens – all set against the blue sea of the Med. For exclusive luxury and the finest views of this magnificent coastline, then our advice would be to choose a clifftop hotel in the town of Ravello. Your photos will rival even the most glamorous scenes in a James Bond movie!

Mauritius – Stunning Beaches

Let’s face it, when we think destination wedding, we visualise picture-perfect beaches, with powdery white sand, sparkling turquoise waters and lagoons fringed by palm trees. If you’re looking for the ultimate beach wedding, with the photos to prove it, then the tropical island of Mauritius has got to be your number one destination. While certain countries, such as the Maldives, will only allow a blessing ceremony, with the correct paperwork and a minimum of one day’s stay on the island, you can legally marry here. In fact, it’s one of the top choices for destination weddings, so the process is relatively straightforward and many tour operators offer package deals here.

The stunning Lux Belle Mare resort is one of the most popular wedding venues on Mauritius. Situated in the quaint seaside village of Belle Mare on the eastern side of the island, this resort is located on a beautiful beach, with waves kissing the shoreline, and is sure to provide the desert island setting of your dreams.

New York – Iconic Cityscapes

If you’re looking for a stunning cityscape wedding, then there’s only one place to head – New York. And not just New York, we’re talking the Big Apple, the city that never sleeps …. Manhattan.  For the most iconic backdrop, look to Tribeca Rooftop. Set in a 1920’s printing press building in the trendy downtown area of Tribeca, the rooftop terrace offers amazing panoramas of the city’s landmarks and skyscrapers. Again, with the right planning getting married in New York is straightforward. Simply complete all the online paperwork with the New York City clerk beforehand (you’ll need to hold the license for 24 hours before you can legally get married). With a fee of just $35, we can easily see why this destination is becoming increasingly popular for British couples looking for something that little bit different. It also means you’re well placed for that Miami honeymoon!

Australia – Mystical Uluru

OK, so we know that our Antipodean cousins are most famous for sweeping beaches and barbecues, but if you’re looking for a mystical, fabled wedding venue, and fancy a trip down under, then a wedding at Uluru will hit the spot. This amazing location, in the heart of the Australian outback, comes alive at sunrise and sunset, as the rays of light hit the blazing rock. If you fancy exchanging vows with the scarlet rocks of Uluru and Kata Tjuta as your background, then The Ayers Rock Resort can help fulfil your dreams. At this resort, couples can get married on top of their own private dune, as the rocks behind come alive with the ascending light of dawn or as the sunset glow envelops the sky. Just remember that if you go for a sunset wedding in the Winter months, your guests will need a blanket or two as the weather can get chilly.

Iceland – Northern Lights

For dramatic, other worldly scenery that’s less than 3 hours flight time from the UK, the ‘land of fire and ice’ has got to be one of the world’s best settings for spectacular wedding photos. With wedding venues available on glaciers, in a cave, in front of stunning waterfalls, on volcanic beaches or atop soaring clifftops, we can easily see why Iceland appeals to so many intrepid couples. If you’re looking for the solemnity of a chapel, with the achingly beautiful backdrop of snow-capped mountains and the Snaefellsjokull glacier, then the dramatic Budir Black Church in the remote western region of the island will appeal to you.

This is a nature lovers paradise and as well as being spoilt for choice when it comes to locations, you can also witness one of the world’s truly celestial events – the Northern Lights. While the aurora borealis can’t be arranged to order, if you’re hoping your wedding will coincide with this incredible light show, then plan your nuptials between September and March.

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Tips and Techniques

Black Friday 2018: Product Photography Tips to Boost your Conversions

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Black Friday has always been known as one of the biggest holiday sales in the market. Many people anticipate it every year, even enduring waiting in line to their favourite shop’s entrance. Which is why online stores are making extra preparations for it – uploading promo ads, stocking new items, and posting new photos of their products.

Photos have the potential to turn your casual site browsers into customers. The better the size and quality of your store photos, the more customers it can attract to buying your products. This just shows how powerful photos are in the online market. Presenting your product through photos makes all the difference.

If you want to learn about product photography, keep reading! You just might be surprised by the tips and ideas you can gain, be it lighting or apps you can use for your shoot.

Show another side of your product

Having said that better quality of your product photos attracts more customers, it is always important to present your product in the best light possible. This means highlighting the good content of your products.

Showing emotion through your photos can help boost the sales of the product. For example, how a person looks with the use of your product. Does it create an ambience of confidence? Would it make the user’s experience look more accessible or more convenient?

Additionally, when creating a feel for the product, this also involves putting the product in a suitable environment. Showcasing the product in situations that it can showcase the worth of the customer’s money can greatly appeal to the buyer.

Lastly and most importantly, letting the customer see the product in full detail can help them have a concrete idea of what they are buying. It makes the customer trust the retailer if they are allowed full disclosure of all the product parts. You can also get creative in presenting your product by using different lighting techniques or showing different angles.

Remember that product photos are an investment

Having high-quality images of your product should be the best investment you have for your online market. You can employ a photographer to get the job done, or you can opt to the cheaper way by doing it yourself with this simple product photography guide. Either way, you are sure to invest time and skills for the job, and it will all be worth it when you see its effect on your buyers.

You don’t need an uber-expensive camera

There is no need to buy a high-end camera for product photography. You can opt to ask your friend to lend you their high-end camera, or you can buy one yourself.  There are a lot of camera options in the market that can get you the quality of the photos you want without breaking the bank. You can use your mobile phone since you only need image quality that does not blur or distort the product. Newly released smartphones can also control the exposure and brightness of the product environment.

Post your product on social media

Social media is a significant avenue to present your product. You can post your product in social media to reach a wider audience and gain more publicity. With this, you need to post photos that would engage the audience into seeing more about your products. However, posting on social media is a lot different from posting pictures on your product website. You need to adhere to certain image dimensions to maximize the posting. This social media cheat sheet can guide you in posting the right size of your product image on social media.

Offer a sneak peek for your customers

Since Black Friday is one of the biggest holidays when products have price markdowns and cuts, you can opt to offer a sneak peek of the deals you have for your products. This means putting out teasers on what your customers can anticipate on your Black Friday Sale. Make them excited, and be sure to let them know when the sale starts.

Keep an Eye on Image Files Sizes

Make sure that the files sizes of your images are compatible with your website. There will be a constant connection between the load time of the page, and the image quality that is being loaded. You need to observe and maintain the standard load time to determine if you need a lower image file size of the product photos. Page load time can greatly affect the customers’ willingness to buy your products. It should always be convenient for them to browse it whether they are on a laptop or surfing through their mobile phones.

Don’t be afraid of editing

Making sure your photos are consistent with the colours they express is crucial to your branding which is why photo editing is highly encouraged. If you want to make sure your photos present the cohesion you need for your brand, then be sure to correct them by using photo editing software. You can also match the tone of your product collection with the season.

Be consistent with your theme

Throughout the whole article, it has always been a point to create a consistent image of your brand. It is important enough to make it a tip on its own.

Whatever you may be doing in the image of your brand — whether it be tweeting, posting details, or messaging a customer, it should always be done align with your branding. Especially on the website, having a consistent feel to your customers is necessary so that your brand is established with them. If you are a skincare company that uses neutral colours with pastel undertones, you cannot use images that are high in contrast.

Conclusion

Make sure you’re ready for the big day. Black Friday is just around the corner and many of your customers will be watching out for your newest promos, and next big product collection. What better way to do that than by applying those tips? Product photography will always be a crucial factor in gaining conversions since it makes all the difference when the customer is able to trust your brand. By building your brand image through your photos, it can guarantee you that customers will surely trust the quality and service of the brand.

If you want to explore what other options you can boost your website sales, this e-commerce conversion guide can help you further in improving your conversion e-commerce conversion rate.

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Tips and Techniques

How to live stream a wedding ceremony?

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

It is your special day. You are going to tie a knot with someone who will always stay by your side. You want to remember this day as something more than just an ancient tradition. You want to do everything to make this day memorable for you and your better half. You might also consider a destination wedding on a far-flung location to jazz up the event.

However, life is unpredictable and so are its circumstances. There could be uncountable situations when some of your close inner circles might miss the wedding in person. Appreciate the technology, because there are many ways using which you can have your near ones by your side even if they are not present in person. Live streaming is one of them and probably the most accessible of all.

Why would you want to live stream your wedding?

With what that was available to offer, technology has always left a mark in the wedding ceremonies from time to time. Be it wedding photography, photo booths, Pre-marriage shoot, drone videography, there has always been something special available for the weddings. Live streaming a wedding is the new trend. It has made to the context because of the real-time coverage and broadcasting of the events, offering much more than a traditional wedding video shoot.

  • It comes as a boon when someone from your family or inner circle falls ill and cannot travel to your wedding destination, or cannot afford to attend in person because of any random reason.
  • It entices millions of people when public figures, celebrities, social media influencers, sports stars or politicians, share their special moment with their followers in the real-time.
  • You may want to share your moment with your marine brother, who is currently on a post and cannot come for the wedding.
  • The ability to share this moment with your loved ones adds the personal and emotional touch to the tech and this is what that makes it so special.

How to live stream your wedding?

You can implement the live streaming of your wedding in the two possible ways: Hire the professional services or Do it by yourself.

Hiring professionals:

Once you are certain about your decision to live stream your wedding event, hire a video streaming service that would take care of everything. They would have professionals who can manage the setup, required equipment, and everything else for the live event. There are services who offer a one-stop solution for the whole requirements. They would prepare a professional grade set up covering everything from best camera positions to expert camerapersons.

They possess the best tech for-

  • HD video quality of the live streaming
  • No or lower latency in the broadcast
  • High-quality audio feed
  • Multiple cameras covering everything in real-time.

Doing it yourself:

If you want to DIY, you have many options to choose from. Depending on your requirement and privacy of the live stream, you can go for any of the following methods:

Social media streaming

The cheapest and most accessible way to live stream your wedding is to choose the social media applications as medium. You can utilize the live streaming features of Facebook Live, Instagram Live, YouTube Live, Periscope, Twitch or Snapchat. The mobile applications of all these platforms offer the facility to go live in just a few clicks.

The social media route is suitable for –

Streamers who can manage with the average video quality. Due to high latency and internet traffic, social media platforms generally produce average to poor video quality. We would recommend using them as the last alternative if you cannot manage to get a superior solution.

In addition, use social media, when you are streaming for a personal access, not like celebs who stream for at least millions of followers.

PS: If you decide to use social media alone and not the next option listed below, then go for Periscope, as it can live stream the feeds directly from your Go-Pro camera. It would produce a comparatively better quality of the stream.

Dedicated live streaming solutions

There is an alternate solution to the social media streaming- a dedicated live streaming solution. Undoubtedly, social media live streaming is free and instant, but it is also true that these platforms do a lot more than just live streaming. Due to that, there is always congestion, ultimately affecting the quality of the stream, even with the high-speed internet. Moreover-

  • You cannot do a peer to peer streaming, in case you do not want to make your stream public.
  • You will not possess the right; the video becomes an intellectual property of the platform.
  • You will not have a control over stream quality; it’s totally network dependent.
  • Tech support is not up to the mark for a free service.

Therefore, if you think that social media streaming is not adequate for streaming a valuable moment like wedding ceremony, you can go for a professional-grade solution to avoid all the above drawbacks and offer the best quality stream to your loved ones. You can use any of the professional-grade live streaming software like DaCast or StreamHash to get the following benefits:

  • White label service- where the video will be your own property and no one else can claim it.
  • Complete privacy of the stream, as you can make your stream private and allow only selected people to watch it.
  • They provide 24X7-tech support for installation and operation of the software.
  • As they are dedicated, they produce negligible or no latency at all in the live stream.
  • You can enjoy HD quality streaming with clear audio via top-tier Content Delivery Network.

Whether you are streaming for a single person or a group of followers, you would not want to ruin the experience with the poor quality of the stream. There is always an emotional attachment with the events like a wedding. You can best serve these emotions by streaming in the finest video qualities using the handpicked solutions explained in this article. So focus on creating an impression and make the wedding memorable for everyone, even for those who could not attend it physically.

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Advice

The Healing Power of Photography for Anxiety and Depression

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

There’s a lot fo be said for the human need to create. For those living with the burden of mental illness, the need for an artistic outlet has proven to be of even greater importance, as it can literally tackle the symptoms of anxiety, depression and even panic disorders, simply with the use of creative expression. The greatest therapy, so they say, comes from behind the camera, where you can really be in the present moment, switch off, and take refuge in a world of imagination.

Approximately one in four people in the UK will experience mental illness each year, with one in six reporting a common mental health problem. The numbers are rising, in the UK and beyond, with more and more people reaching out to their creative instincts to cope. So what is it about photography that has such therapeutic benefits?

Professional photographer Elizabeth Costello believes it has a Buddhist nature, encouraging you to slow down and be in the moment. “Taking the time to observe light, scenery, people, and animals is very mindful, you are in the present moment. You are not thinking of problems, work, the children, the car, you are simply present, giving yourself the freedom of creativity in that moment, a freedom that can create peace.” She said.

“Creative expression can connect you to a part of yourself long forgotten, or buried under day to day life, it allows you to express yourself without being constrained by words. And expressing yourself is a positive off-load. Taking a good photograph requires you to slow down. It leads you to observe, makes you aware of the moment, in photography terms Henri Cartier- Bresson called it “the decisive moment”.Putting things into focus.

There are countless apps around these days for ‘gratitude’, as so they say, choosing things to be grateful for, even when the going gets tough, promotes positive thinking that turns into a habit. Photography can help cultivate mindfulness and gratitude as the entire purpose of creating photos is based around appreciating something which is visually pleasing. Tapping into the power of perspective, of introspection, not surprisingly helps with your overall wellness when practised often.

Elizabeth added: “Depending on your subject matter, much can be gained. In wildlife photography patience is rewarded by a glimpse of perfect nature. With portrait photography it takes you out of yourself and into your subject’s world. The same is true of street photography, you are observing other people’s lives, perhaps feeling empathy.

“Landscape photography is to walk out into nature, to feel good, taking the time to stop, frame a picture, waiting until the light is just right.

All of these things can have a positive effect on your mood. A friend of mine said it helped him focus his negativity and anxiety into the process, while providing himself with the protection of the camera.

“Henry Miller said ‘develop an interest in life as you see it; in people, things, literature, music- the world is so rich, throbbing with rich treasures, beautiful souls and interesting people. Forget  yourself.’ – and guess what? It does get you outside. Outside of your house and outside of your head.”

Picking up the camera for the first time

You don’t need to be a professional or even skilled photographer to reap the huge benefits of photography. While it’s true that the majority of us carry cameras in our pockets in the age of the smartphone,  there is a lot more to be gained from getting a real camera and some beginner equipment, you might find yourself very surprised by how quick you pick up the basics. Be sure to get yourself a hard camera case to go with whatever device you choose, especially if you are planning on taking on outdoor photography in damp weather.

If you’d like guidance on where to start  Expert Photography published a complete beginners guide which will help you get set up.

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Marketing

Video Marketing and Future Virtual Reality:  Contributions of the Two Technologies in Marketing

by Mark Bailey
written by Mark Bailey

Video Marketing Explained

It is often said that a picture is worth a thousand words, have we then stopped to think how valuable a video could be?  A custom-made video to create awareness, to advertise or to even inform does what plain text is not capable of doing. For this reason, a video stands to benefit us by reaching a larger audience when it comes to marketing.

In marketing, videos are used for several purposes including:

  • Fostering a working relationship with the client
  • Company brand promotion
  • Products promotion
  • Customer sensitization of new products you are about to introduce into the market
  • Informing your clients about your discounted products

The Nitty-Gritties of Video Marketing

The graphics design department of a company creates short and informative clips of the company and its products or services. This is used to push the agenda of the company in their quest to market their products or services to their customers.

To know how successful the undertaking was, they analyze the data from the clip. This could be direct responses from customers, conversations going on social media regarding information communicated by the clip and finally the health of the company’s sales.

To have a working and a successful video marketing strategy, your team ought to:

1.    Allocate resources

A budget needs to be set aside for the graphics design department if you are to have quality output. If a graphics design team is not present, you can create one and hire professionals, or you can contract an existing graphics design company. Your budget should cover equipment like powerful computers, HD video cameras, editing software and a responsive website.

2.    Make a Video to tell your story

From the clips the team has taken, brainstorm on which story of the company you want to tell and how you want to tell it. Afterward, settle on the clips that tell your story best.

3.    Make sure the video is engaging

Make your audience want to watch the clip for at the last minute. Telling your story is not enough if the audience loses interest along the way and dismisses the video. Find ways to make the video enjoyable and at the same time not forgetting your main aim which is to market the company.

4.    Short and informative

It is not clearly defined how long a marketing video should be. Although from past experiences different people have had, they recommend having a short clip which covers everything and is captivating enough to keep the audience watching.

5.    Push your content to the public

Get your videos published on different platforms. Have them on your website, all of your social media platforms; upload them to YouTube and also on different television stations. Make sure that you have all of your employees and other stakeholders help push the video by sharing the video on social platforms they are in and are comfortable doing so.

6.    Employ data mining and analyzing techniques

Have your IT department help with this. Big data analysis helps make sense of data that has been collected on different platforms then use the data to get a feel of how the market is responding. With these results, you will be able to know where to improve on.

Advantages of Video Marketing

Video marketing has quite some advantages:

1.    Creates a connection with your clients and other audience

A video familiarizes the audience with company. This helps build trust in the company as well as their products and services. In a nutshell, a video gives your customers a chance to know you better.

2.    Marketing videos help bring traffic to your website

Videos help build backlinks on your websites which in turn increases your website’s SEO ratings. When your audience clicks and shares the marketing video you have posted, this boosts your Google ranking. Having good traffic will bring business whereby bigger companies will want to advertise with you to get a share of your audience. Build your brand loyalty and monetise your following by offering your own custom merchandise (using print-on-demand technology).

3.    The video, being a visual aid helps retain information

Research has confirmed that we retain 10% of what we hear which is after three days but with visual information, we tend to retain 65% of the information passed after three days. This goes to show how powerful and effective video marketing is. You are sure of customer retention by what you communicate to them.

Virtual Reality in a Glimpse

Some of us may never visit space or even have the guts to either scuba dive or even take that leap to a bungee jump. Not to worry though, going by the current trends in virtual reality, you might be able to experience all these and even more without even leaving your home. Virtual reality simulates parts of our world and even other imaginary worlds using computers and sensory equipment.

In the business world, virtual reality (VR) can be used in team building meetings where a virtual world is simulated to you as the employee, and you are required to use your strength to help the other team members achieve a common goal. Virtual reality can be used to stir up the leader in you by having a problem you are facing or a decision you are supposed to make simulated in an environment then you are guided by a professional through the situation to help you come up with ways to solve that issue. This will build confidence within you in leading the others.

Future of Virtual Reality in Video Marketing

This is not about the future anymore, it is happening now, and you better get on board. Many companies are currently using immersive videos, i.e., a combination of virtual reality and 360-degree video in their marketing endeavors. Virtual reality ads and marketing videos have shown to elicit emotions and also engage the user for longer periods.

With the increasing advancements in technology, this is the space to watch when it comes to digital marketing and advertising.

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