10 things that I learnt as a photographer last year

Seeing as it's a fresh new year, I thought I would write a reflective blog post this week of all the highlights and things I have learnt in photography in 2014.


1. Different ways of using studio lighting

Side Lighting

Split Lighting

Paramount lighting

I'm always keen to learn new techniques, especially when it comes to lighting. I spent quite a lot of last year in the studio, which I do throughly enjoy however shooting on location is my preference.

2.  Things about the world & my own personal love for travelling

Paris

Budapest

Tunisia

London

My Mum is a travel agent so it's easy to work out how I have gained my passion for travelling & learning about the world and culture around me. I love to see new places and can't wait for 2015, I will be visiting, Rome, New York & Florida.

3. How much I enjoy fashion & beauty photo shoots

Before starting my HND, my points of interest in photography were usually photographing friends and family and some landscapes. When I started college, I soon began to realise that I enjoyed this far more.

4. Photographing for clients, students & teachers from college

Its always so nice to be approached by people to take some photographs for them & I have had some amazing opportunities in the last year. The photographs above are from the Media Make Up End of Year Show 2014 at The Steam Museum & head and shoulder shots for a hairdressing lecturer's portfolio.

5. Photoshop Techniques

Overlaying & blending in Photoshop. Also editing and softening people in Photoshop.

6. Animal Portraits

I had never had the chance to photograph animals before & I didn't realise just how hard it is! Patience is key & a few doggy treats.....

7. Using Smoke Bombs in photographs to create dramatic effect

Smoke bombs are so fun to work with!! They only last around 1 minute so all the poses have to be practised before I set it off, I always have to work really quickly and try to get the shots that I want. Luckily, my model is amazing & works well under the pressure.

8. I have learnt about organising shoots, selecting locations & booking accommodation & transport

The first two photographs were shot at Cirencester Outdoor Swimming Pool, I drove to the location with MUA and model and we had an evening shooting. The beach photographs are from Woolacoombe Bay, we stayed there for two days and had a great time. I organised the transport, accommodation and locations for the different shoots. I've gained a really strong friendship with both of them & we have more shoots organised in the near future. :) 

9.  Light Trails

I have only recently posted these photographs in the last couple of months or so, but it is a skill I had always wanted to master & Bonfire Night last year, I got the shots that I wanted. I think the people holding the sparklers could do with a bit more practise :) but the overall idea is there & I want to definitely experiment with this further. 

10. Bokeh 

 Keep posted throughout 2015 to see what new things I will photographing this year :)