Becoming a Photographer
Photography Equipment
- Photography Lab
- Photography Portfolios
- Becoming a professional photographer
- Photographic Supplies
- Dark Room
- Freelancing Photography
The type of photography equipment needed can be determined by the requirements of the photo shoot itself. Most photography work to be done requires backdrops, light meters, special lighting and perhaps props. Some photographers have special projects and use models in costume or with particular props such as furniture or cityscape and country backdrops. Lighting, backdrops, reflective light discs, flashes, light meters and filters all play a significant part in successful studio or location photography.
Backdrops can be made of canvas and decorated beautifully or can be self supporting and rolled down and back up when the work is finished. A self supporting backdrop is portable and often comes with its own case.
Tripods are an essential part of any photographers equipment supply. A tripod is used for stabily to the camera in situations where the shutter of the camera must be slowed down so it can remain open for longer periods of time to let the most light in for the best exposure. In situations of extended exposure if a tripod isnt used then the shot can easily be ruined as any movement of the hand holding the camera will result in a blurring of the image.
Light meters measure light in a particular setting for shooting film. This is an essential tool as light can enhance or ruin a photographer's work. Too much light causes glare and washes out the image, while not enough light can smother detail and muddy a photograph. The light meter measures light in any portion of a room the photographer points it in. Adjustments to light allow for experimentation, compensation and artistic license in a shot. Light meters allow a photographer greater information and creative boundaries. Some cameras have them built in, but many older models require a hand held light meter. Artificial light (kickers, backlights, fill lights, separator lights to name a few), flashes and reflective light discs are used as light enhancement and to accentuate the qualities of the subject of the work.
Filters can be used to enhance the depth of naturally occuring light and color. There are times when a lense fails to appreciate the deeper hues of natural light. Filters accentuate what would be conveyed as washed out or bland on film or in digital media.