Author: Rachelle Moore

  • 5 Basic Color Correction Techniques Using Photoshop CC

    5 Basic Color Correction Techniques Using Photoshop CC

    There are many features, new and old ones that make Photoshop standout from the rest of popular photo editing tools. Photographers, web designers and graphic artist, to name a few, benefit from using the Creative Cloud version of Photoshop.

    This graphics designing software will help every user edit pictures depending on the purpose, its demand and supply analysis for career and business. One of the best ways to earn income is to begin using your technical skills in photo editing. It can be done either in an offline or online operation.

    Because it is important to promote products online, you can also consider designing your own website. When you fully developed the skills necessary to master photo editing, you can also apply for online jobs for related projects. These projects can also be done either in an online or offline basis but most web design companies prefer offline work because of then use of the printing press, photo studio and related offline design works.

    From the advantages mentioned, everything boils down to color grading, adjustment and manipulation in photo design and editing. When using Photoshop CC, it is a requirement to know the basic skills and techniques in white balance and color correction. It is for a fact that in order to make a correct balance, it is very important to know the different aspects of setting and familiarize white balance using a camera.

    Five Color Correction Techniques Using Photoshop CC

    Our eyes are very similar and in a way, comparable to a camera. Our eyes are excellent when it comes to making an automatic white balance. But cameras are not as good as our eyes in doing this. Below are five color correction techniques using Photoshop CC.

    1. Add the Threshold Adjustment and Curves for color correction

    When creating a new layer, go to Edit and Fill then select the layer with 50% gray. The layer blend mode must be set to Difference. It is important to set the Threshold level to 10 and grab the Eyedropper tool while holding down the Shift button. You need to click to drop the color over the black spots.What follows next is to delete Threshold and add Curves Adjustment Layer. While zooming in the eyedropper to the area of interest, click once to have a color balance.



    video credit 2 Minute Photoshop

    video credit PiXimperfect


    video credit Learn Color Grading 2. Skin Color adjustment

    To set skin color to perfect, you will be shown with the skin color breakdown of White, Black, Latin, and Asian while balancing a fair amount of magenta, yellow, black and cyan for a perfect skin. The real technique in this tool is to choose a great area from which colors are adjusted and measured.
    video credit Learn Color Grading


    video credit Prince Meyson
    3. Adjust the White Balance tool in Camera RAW editor

    In using this tool, you need to open the image in the Camera RAW editor to change the image to a smart object and go to Filter then Camera Raw Filter. While choosing the White Balance tool the neutral point in the photo to automatically make the white balance corrected.


    video credit Pink Flower Photography
    4. Adjustment for Hue and Saturation Layer

    This is the fourth method of color correction with the use of Photoshop CC. It basically needs a /hue and Saturation adjustment layer. You need to utilize the channel drop down to point any color that is overwhelmingly seen in the photo. Shifting the hue to reduce the saturation will make a big difference. But there is a limitation in using this tool. This method works amazingly when there is a color that is obviously affecting uniformity of the whole image.


    video credit tutvid

    5. Free Hand adjustment

    Using the ‘finger’ icon, this will take a Curves adjustment layer while the channels can be Red, Green and Blue. You have to drag either up and down on any part of the photo to introduce Red/Cyan, Green/Magenta or Blue/Yellow whenever there is a need to do so. In a photo whose orientation is landscape, this technique is really effective.

    Conclusion

    Understanding the basic color adjustment manipulation in Photoshop CC is very common in numerous photo editing techniques. There are times that removing a tint can be a good choice. There are also instances where the background layer of the original photo needs to be corrected. Whatever the adjustment may be, it boils down as to how skillful and artistic the editor is.

    Every design that needs to be added or removed, every color and curves that needed adjustment or every contrast that needed to be brighten of darken, images are ‘photopshopped’ for perfection. It is this tool that really determines the needs of a particular image. Using Photoshop CC as your tool commands various options for color correction.

  • 15 of Seattle’s Best Real Estate Photographers

    15 of Seattle’s Best Real Estate Photographers

    Technology continues to amaze us because of the creative visual options it offers. Aside from this, life becomes easier because it responses to the changes and challenges of the modern world through the help of the different technological innovations these days.

    In real estate business, many clients are likely to favor virtual tour as their guide to property search instead of traveling to its exact location. Virtual tour, as many agents fondly call it, exposes a vast range of possible client listing because it is an important visual tool to complement the listings especially in the social media.

    The orientation and the quality of the image can be everyone’s weapon in presenting to clients the different properties that are for sale in a very astonishing 3D style. When it comes to houses and condominiums, a decent shoot for each room can be one of the biggest breaks of an agent. This is one of the very important aspects of giving virtual tours to clients as photographers must prepare every room they plan to shoot.

    In Seattle, WA, photographers always emphasize the best feature each room possesses. They think that a great photo of every room can be the best selling point in every transaction. They always come up to the idea of capturing photos of rooms exposed in natural light, aside from considering the space availability of which the buyers may be curious to see.

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    List of Seattle’s Finest Real Estate Photographers

    Below is a list of some of the best real estate photographers located in Seattle. They are as follows (random order):

    1. NAME: Andrew Buchanan

    WEBSITE: www.subtlelightphoto.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/subtlelightphoto

    Andrew Buchanan’s architectural expertise made him popular in the surrounding areas of Seattle. His photography includes a wide array of architectural and interior services. He is also familiar with land and aerial photography. His being popular earned him to be one of the best persons for design, marketing and advertising projects.

    2. NAME: Chuck Sires

    WEBSITE: http://cjphotonw.com/
    Gallery: http://cjphoto.zenfolio.com/residential

    CJ Photo Banner

    Chuck Sires

    CJ Photos is a photography service firm owned by Chuck Sires that focuses on action photography, professional headshots, event photography, aside from real estate photography. He is sometimes called Jack of all trades because he knows how to mingle to whoever he is with. His photoswere featured in Seattle Magazine and Ibuki.

    3. NAME: Matt Edington

    WEBSITE: claritynw.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/ClarityNorthwest/

    Clarity Northwest Photography is a leading architectural and aerial photography in Bellevue. He has served all kinds of clients from local to nationwide. Having specialized in architectural and real estate photography, Clarity Northwest aids their clients of intriguing but compelling images

    4. NAME: Ilya’sMoshenskiy

    WEBSITE: ilyaphoto.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/ilyaphoto/

    architectural-photography

    Owned by IlyaMosheskiy, Ilya’s Photography is a full-time photography servicing firm that also specializes in architectural, commercial and even in event photography. For at least 35 years serving the surrounding areas of Redmond, WA, the Ilya has traveled nationwide, making it one of the foremost names in real estate photography business.

    5. NAME: Jesse L. Young

    WEBSITE: http://www.realestatephotographerseattle.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/jesseyoungphotos/

    Jesse L. Young is involved in residential as well as real estate photography. His company is located at Kirkland, WA, where its service is also felt in the nearby areas. Jesse L. Young likewise gives package of having photo tour websites, same day photo delivery and virtual home tours. The firm’s effective services have made it a perfect choice for real estate photography.

    6. NAME: Joel Dames

    WEBSITE: www.joeldamesphotography.com
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/Joel-Dames-Photography-196331813745407/

    Located in Shoreline, WA, the he is expert in portraits, real estate and commercial camerawork. He is also involved in servicing special occasions like weddings, events and photo albums. The quality of work is high and Joel Dames owns high-end photography equipment.

    7. NAME: John Wilbanks

    WEBSITE: jwphoto.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/jwphotoinc/

    This particular photographer is a household name in the area of Bellevue, WA. Aside from providing 3D photography guiding materials, its services also include aerial, residential and stock photography. John D. Wilbanks is also involved in giving professional services in terms of creativity, reliability and high-quality services.

    8. NAME: Katherine Gooding

    WEBSITE: www.katherinegooding.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/KatherineGoodingPhotography

    An expert photographer by profession, Kathering Gooding serves clients in Seattle, WA and takes pride in shooting images of restaurants, commercial businesses, architectural designs, and real estate properties. She also works as a creative photographer to her customers and she knows the basic needs of her clients in terms marketing materials.

    9. NAME: Robert Wachtendonk

    WEBSITE: www.rwphotography.biz/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Robert-Wachtendonk-Photography/394280597249218

    The proprietor, Robert Wachtendonk is a professional photographer who specializes in product and real estate photography. He also includes sports photography as one of the services his company offers. He uses great communication and involves in shooting efficient photos.

    10. NAME: Jules Frazier

    WEBSITE: julesfrazier.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julesfrazier

    Jules Frazier is a photographer whose services include real estate photos, small business images and marketing and advertising products. Because of the craftsmanship Frazier possesses, his photography business results in profitable sales and excellent marketing endeavors.

    11. NAME: Megan Swann

    WEBSITE: www.meganswann.com

    event photography

    Megan Swann is a real estate photographer who owns her photography business – Megan Swann Photography. Aside from real estate, she is also involved in a wide array of photography landscape like corporate and culinary event photography.She has also served as photographer and photo editor of a famous magazine.

    12. NAME: Shawn Nichols

    WEBSITE: shawnhnichols.com

    A Pacific Northwest native, Shawn has captivated people’s attention. She offers a host of photographic services like real estate photography, portraits, corporate, products and events. She is a member of the North Seattle Chamber of Commerce and the Seattle Metropolitan Chamber of Commerce.

    13. NAME: Megan Ingram

    WEBSITE: https://meganingramphotography.weebly.com
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/megan.ingram.169

    A professional real estate photographer, she creates sales using the realtors to make the buyers enjoy their potential dream home. She likes to bring out the character in every shoot she makes. Her real estate photos are all fulfilling that becomes part of any buyer’s future possibilities.

    14. NAME: Ryan Castoldi

    WEBSITE: https://www.ryancastoldi.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.instagram.com/rcastphoto/

    Ryan is one of the photographers who seemed to have possessed a natural skill in camerawork. He understands how to use contrast and brightness of light properly. He has all the equipment and having been in the photography industry for 20 years, he has known everything – from the minute details of the business to all other possibilities the industry can throw at him.

    15. NAME: Emily Kistler

    WEBSITE: emilykistlerphoto.com/
    SOCIAL SITE: https://www.facebook.com/public/Emily-Kistler

    Emily is a talented real estate photographer whose goal is to create portraits that will be cherished by generations to come. She is involved in photography including commercial and products, events, and sales and promotions.

  • A Guide to Market Your Photographs Using Top 5 Social Media Platforms

    A Guide to Market Your Photographs Using Top 5 Social Media Platforms

    Presently, social media is the most powerful tool in the business world. It is also considered as the backbone of digital marketing. Once you use it perfectly, you can build a substantial number of potential customers for your business. The use of it however can be a big waste of time and money if marketers leap directly into its complex framework without even having a concrete plan to follow. This practice will definitely result in total disaster of your personal and business reputation.

    Social media sites are perhaps the most effective web platforms that can perhaps boost any businesses. There are different studies that had been made to rank all the social media people are using either for personal or business use. Social media era has been dominated by Facebook which more than a billion users login daily.

    Because of the assortment of features of this particular site, Facebook and Facebook Messenger fill the first two spots. You Tube, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest, make up the top five social media which people visit daily. It is important to learn how to market using these sites for additional advertising exposure.

    How to Market Photographs Using Social Media

    There are countless ways to market photographs using the different social media platforms. Boosting a photography business involves various marketing strategies depending on the kind of social media you are using. To boost online visibility, business-minded photographers must always consider the type of photos they are into.

    Maintaining a portfolio of the genre of photographs is perhaps a simple yet the best and effective way not to make clients confused of the kind of expertise you have. It is always recommended that photo collections must be updated all the time. Older ones must be replaced by newer ones.

    A photographer’s initial assignment is to start the business small but it is important to start it right. Assuming you are a professional photographer, what clients really want is simplicity and commitment. Giving your business a simple name and sharing the best shots on your web page, not mentioning the inclusion of your contact information are keys to boosting your photograph business.

    Since it is social media that are being used as channels to the outside world, it is beneficial for you to share the page with your relatives and close friends. Sharing does not end here but rather it is the initial job for every business owner. To gather more followers, tell your friends to invite others.

    If a picture can paint a thousand words, then social media writing is also necessary. This is what a photography business needs. When uploading photos to be shared by others for you online presence, consider blogging as an alternative way to make great sales.

    How Does Social Media Market Your Photos

    Below are the list of top five social media platforms and their unique ways to market your photos.

    1. Facebook

    Small businesses like photography business cannot really afford the power of Facebook. Almost all consumers use Facebook to search for their favorite local photography business. To market your photograph using Facebook, it is mandatory to create your Facebook page.

    Take note that this page is not the same as a regular Facebook profile page. This is intended specifically for businesses. This is used to interact to other users which is why perfecting your business page is what you need.

    You also need to share to make connections. You need to check “Build Audience” found in the Admin’s Page. It is also advisable to engage and make connections with your followers using Facebook Offers and Promoted Posts.

    2. YouTube

    To monetize photographs using YouTube, learning how to create a channel to attract subscribers will be the focal point of the marketing strategy. It is required to brand the page and customize the content to gain viewers. Learning SEO techniques in optimizing videos are what search engines needed.

    3. Instagram

    Instagram is one of the easiest platforms to market photographs. All you need to do is post a square photo or video and tag, add caption or both. When using hashtags, it increases exposure but everything boils down to the kind of photo added.

    When marketing photos using Instagram, list the particular city where the photo was taken. Indicate also the type of photography, equipment used, brand and other important details like the aspect of photo using broad terms, its ratio and the likes.

    Tagging your clients, sharing blog posts, consistent posting and updating profiles are other things to be considered when using Instagram.

    4. Twitter

    In marketing your photos using Twitter, use Twitter Chats. This is to gain followers and awaken the untapped market. Twitter Chats allows you to see how marketers participate in engaging on the social network. All you need to do is reply to other chatters consistently and politely. Always use @ and mention them so that notifications will be received.You also need to plan ahead instead of waiting for days to start campaigning. Follow any photograph trending and send out content like events and make people broadcast these events.

    5. Pinterest

    Very common to all social media sites is the creation of a business account. After which, add the Pinterest browser button to the browser you are using. In using this platform, you need to have a Pinterest Board. Optimize each pin created using keywords, links, hashtags and categories.

    These images and photos must be watermarked to protect them. Using storyboards and client testimonial will even work wonders in the marketing of your photos. Encouragement is also important by letting other people pin your images.

  • Top 7 Video Editing Software for Real Estate

    Top 7 Video Editing Software for Real Estate

    For an individual to become a good real estate agent, he needs to own excellent real estate software. Moreover, in order to become top sellers, agents really need the best real estate software available. Many of our realtors, real estate agents, and brokers usually avoid online marketing because of the time constraints, costs, and the belief that it is better to talk face-to-face to prospective clients.

    In today’s generation, it is very tough to market real estate properties. In addition to depreciating values, tight advertising budget is another reason why some of these agents easily give up. Because of the advent of the Internet and the new waves of social media, real estate videos become popular. Studies claim that now is the perfect time to own real estate videos because people of today are just plugged in to their gadgets and surf the net.

    There is really a valid reason to have a real estate video, either to be presented to prospective clients or upload it to a website or to the social media. These are the reasons why people engaged in selling real estate properties for self-realization. Real estate is generally a gamble on the part of the agents. It is a market that exists but the business is either boom or bust.

    Because of the surging popularity of online climate, today is the perfect time for a videographer to establish his name online by making a video marketing for real estate niche. Real estate marketing may include video promotion or video advertising to gain audience not only with fellow agents but more importantly, gain the trust of big real estate companies.

    Before making videos for promotional purposes, it is necessary to assess the area of local companies and have their representatives interviewed. During the interview process, better ask them about the things that are working for them to gain profit from different properties they sell. Because profit-gaining is always based on price, you may even suggest some ideas to make their strategies better.

    The best opportunity why a video for promotion and advertising is made is to gain audience. But there are instances where the videos made just discuss the experiences they have with such videos. Always get the ideas of what the realtors really wanted and find out the bad practices they made before so that you can pinpoint what these people wished for.

    By focusing on the needs of these realtors, they will suggest what to share and what to shoot. An agent has no disposition to decide what components of the property are included in the real estate video. But as agent and videographer at the same time, you are the ones to determine the best angles and best views for your video.

    In addition to this, it is your responsibility to provide for the materials needed like the tripod, monopod, stabilizer, and slider. Although the client is the boss of the transaction, you are still considered as the expert on the field. Your sole job is to make an enticing and captivating video to attract clients.

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    Top Seven Video Editing Software for Real Estate

    Since you are the real estate agent and videographer at the same time, the equipment must all be simple as possible. All you need to have is a camcorder or a high-end smartphone, a tripod, and the lighting needs. It is also important to have a microphone for editing requirements in handling the audio part of the video.

    TL;DR: Below is a list of seven of the top video editing real estate software for video production:

    1. Contactually

    contactually

    Contactually is a Customer Relation Management (CRM) type of video editing real estate software.This software is a rare breed of CRM for realtors which does not only manages your contacts and leads but more importantly helps you in your relationship with your clients. It creates automated reminders to your clients as well as advanced automation management for proper follow-up.

    2. Matterport

    Matterport

    Matterport is real estate software intended to make those 3D designs as clear as possible. Many clients are fond of seeing and touring using 3D videos in the particular area you are dealing with them. Instead of physically visiting the property for sale, walking through in that property is simply with the use of Matterport. This is one way of making and dealing a lucrative business that is very hard to slip by the hands.

    3. Zillow Premier Agent (Lead Generation)

    It is a very powerful software and is listed as the largest real estate website in the US. Zillow Premier Agent is sale listings software that a free user can submit new rental to Zillow itself. When your listings are uploaded to Zillow, your contact information will then be placed in the upper right corner of the listings page.

    On the other hand, if you are a Zillow Premier Agent, your contact information will be shown exclusively on your listings. In this way, you are gin a greater chance of receiving inquiry from a buyer.

    4. Placester (Website Builder)

    The main job of this software is to generate and nurture leads. It provides a website solution with IDX integration and built-in CRM including email campaigns.

    5. CityBlast (Social Media Nurturing)

    It is widely known that social media enables anybody to get in touch with anyone. But sharing the content with thousands of people is not the only advantage you can get from them. Businesses worldwide have recognized the potential of advertising in the Internet and many had found out some details on how to be successful and make your business profitable.

    When using CityBlast, it automatically find and post local housing market and target real estate content to your different social media accounts using a schedule that best suits you.

    6. DocuSign (ElectronicsSignature/ Transaction Management)

    DocuSign is the most popular real estate software when it comes to electronic signature. It offers the best in-class management for realtors to get their documents signed and deals materialize. With the use of DocuSign, agents can keep track of all the documents for a transaction. Brokers can even set up an approval processes of any transaction.

    7. Showing Suite (Showing Software)

    This software lets you integrate and automate schedules, buyer and agent feedback, pictures, notes and even videos that you want to store in your listing.

  • A Photography Marketing for Real Estate Guide You Must Read

    A Photography Marketing for Real Estate Guide You Must Read

    When it comes to real estate photography, providing a good quality photo in real estate catalogs can make a big impression. Photos with a good quality can be a factor to discern property listing successful or a failure. Your full leasing experience may possibly effective by producing high-quality photos. Keep in mind that, there is a power in the first impression.

    Homebuyers, especially nowadays, are preferred to go online and do some home searches. And this only means that a great opportunity is on your way. With the exceptional product listing photos, you will enough click on the surprising outcome. Quality photos are essential because consumers would like to imagine themselves, living in a home which you provide from your listing. The included description will more alive if good quality photos are present. By only looking at the given photographs, they will feel at home and may perhaps see their future with it. This discernment, with the help of your photography marketing, will determine a good business transaction. To get that, here are some effective tips on photography marketing for real estate.

    What is the equipment needed?

    There are four important tools in getting quality photos.

    • Camera. A good ISO performance is just what you must have in a camera.
    • Lenses. Wide angle lenses are better than any lenses for it creates bigger dimension, and also help accentuate the depth feature.
    • Tripod. This gives crisp images in low light conditions. Long exposure is conceivable with this. It’s a must-buy to help you in many ways.
    • Flash. This is not necessary, but you can consider in buying this one in case you want to apply dramatic aspect on your photos.

    If you want to get the best angles, try using camera drone. This is an option to make your real estate photography marketing incredible.

    What are the best locations for a home?

    By sharing the photos displaying different section of a house, it will give your potential tenants a satisfaction without even bombarding you a series of questions concerning about it.

      • Living room. It is essential to capture this part of a home. When you take a photo of it, make sure to find the best angle, set a little bit of inspiration to produce comfort and kindly warmth factors on your photographs.

      • Bedroom. Shot this space with natural light through its window. It is easier to use normal brightness in this area to have it cozy feeling.

      • Kitchen and dining area. Basically, clean and well-ordered is your theme here. Make it always tidy. Other element, such cleaning products, should at least not visible when you take a photos.

     

      • Bathroom. The challenge here is to find the right corner. That’s it. Just ensure it’s hygienic and arranged.

      • Exterior. For outdoors, take advantage of sunlight. This creates your photos welcoming and likable.

    What are the settings to modify?

    There are many settings you must learn in real estate photography.

    • Shutter speed – between 1/60 and ½ a second
    • Aperture – between F8 and F11
    • ISO – no higher than 400

    Should consider retouching?

    Yes, there’s nothing wrong in improving your photographs. There are some enhancements you must do to produce great photos.

    • Alignment
    • HDR adjustment
    • Cropping
    • White balance

    What to avoid?

    Everything is in the details, so you must never take too lightly the significance of petty concerns.

    • Stay away from an odd reflection of a flash. This cries unqualified and must be avoided whatever happens.
    • Lenses must be cleaned.
    • Sort out clutter. Messy photos do not vend, therefore make sure to get rid of needless things afore beginning to shoot.
    • Don’t go full on touch up. Recall that less is more. Not a single person be fond of it when photos appear strange.
    • No kids or animals. They are cute for Christmas commercials only, but when it comes to real estate photography, this is a completely different case.
    • Go take a shot of the entire room rather than concentrating on definite things located in this room.

    Moreover, one good advice is here to capture many photos. So that you can choose the photographs which are positively the best. This one benefit of current’s digital cameras: Photographs are one-use and evidently there are no printing expenses involved. Let your probable tenants click as much as they want.

    Marketing real estate photography is, in fact, easier when you get yourself a little creative. Allow yourself to learn new skills in marketing photography and be open to act on it. There are many videos online about this matter. Lots of tips and recommendations are given free all over the net.

    If you are really clueless about real estate photography marketing, you can ask for people you know how to do it or hire professional ones that are within your means. You can even ask these experts to give you helpful guidelines that will boost your skills and abilities in marketing photography.

    For now, this information will possibly encourage you to get started and work progressively in this field. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to drop a message on comment box on this site.

  • Build Your Own Photography Portfolio Website

    Build Your Own Photography Portfolio Website

    As photography becomes a creative business, many photographers are becoming more enthusiastic about getting themselves like a real pro in this new venture.

    Social networking sites are the good platform for promoting your works, but these are not enough on showcasing your amazing eye in photography.

    A photography website is a great digital portfolio which is essential for any aspiring photographer. You don’t need to be an excellent photographer to build a photography portfolio website. People from all different walks of life can have a well-organized online site. This will very helpful to get clients.

    Now, read further to know how to make a great portfolio website.

    Decide which platform.

    You need to choose what kind of platform you are going to use. There are two traditional ways to build one.

    • Self-hosted such as WordPress and custom coded
    • Hosted web building platforms

    Fast-loading page

    This is one of the biggest aspects when visitors or clients become interested in your portfolio. No one is going to be excited to check your website if your page is buffering and even not loading. Sometimes patience is not a virtue with them. Be sure to bring in an intense fast factor with enhanced photographs on your website.

    Improve your photographs not only for size but as well for Search engines. Add alternate text to each photo. There is a possibility that some Search engines can’t read or load your photos. However, if you add alt text, your page will immediately display your photograph along with your information. This upturns the probabilities for photos to appear in image search tab in any Search engines.

    Keep your digital portfolio on mobile effective as possible

    In this way, all devices can have an access to your portfolio website. Many people nowadays are into tablets and smartphones than desktops or laptops.

    Create status of your website with informational social influence

    When your online portfolio mentioned or visited by credible people, your site will be in traffic because of numbers of visitors or let’s say, possible buyers. Comments and or suggestions are one way to boost your website status. So better provide review section on your page.

    Add comprehensible contact information

    Indicate your contact details noticeably and assure you are easy to contact with the info you give. To miss out on possible business is not your goal.

    Allow social media sharing

    Make use of social media by sharing widgets and tools on your digital page for interested visitors can effortlessly share your work. This is an advantage for you. It’s a free exposure for the advancement of your online portfolio.

    Always make it updated

    Keep your website up-to-date. Make your site more interesting by setting up the new design, exhibit your current images, and unfold new stories.

    Furthermore, before sharing you how to officially create a site, you need to assess first some pointers for your photography portfolio website.

    • Set objectives. Primarily because you need to prepare yourself for the future of your business. Are you aiming for more clients to purchase your work or to win appreciative awards? Whichever it is, your goal must be based on what you desire for your amazing works.

    • Prepare your pictures. It’s a self-explanatory statement as a photographer. There some photographers improve their skills in this area. You can search and study how you will improve your work.

    • But, don’t be fixated on the picture itself. You can enhance your photos and be in a good quality, but it is not just about those techniques to beautify and have sense to your photos. There’s more than that.

    • Tell a story. This is one way to the previous pointer. Make your visitors intrigue with your photographs. Impart something from it.

    • Always know your target audience.

    And so in building a website, here’s a step-by-step procedure.

    1. Format your website layout

    • Pages – Is it up and down or landscape?
    • Photos – In a grid or in single posting?
    • Menu location – Left, right, center-aligned of the site?
    • Fonts – Serif or creative?
    • Color palette – Monochrome or Vibrant colors?
    • Name and titles – Big or small?

    2. Upload your photos

    • Theme (e.g. portraits, landscapes, travel, fashion)
    • Category of work (e.g. personal, business, editorial, documentary)
    • Consumers (e.g. by client name or by kind of client)
    • Tools (e.g. 35mm, 120mm, digital, video)
    • Location (e.g. residence, park, etc.)

    3. Construct a solid Web page
    4. Add your bio
    5. Add your contact details
    6. Add keywords
    7. Add your prices
    8. Add where to buy
    9. Share your website

    Building a portfolio is not actually as complicated it seems. It always depends on you on how you want it to be. If you read all the pointers and instructions on this article, I assure you you’ll develop a good sensible online portfolio. Just be sure to set your goals and just do it. Try – it’s better to attempt than act nothing at all.

    I hope this guide will be a great help for you to create a photography portfolio website you need. If you have more queries, feel free to drop a message.

    If you don’t want a hassle-free web designing and developing, you can contact Phixer to do the post-processing work for you.

  • Top 13 Photoshop Techniques for Photographers

    Top 13 Photoshop Techniques for Photographers

    One of the challenges of being a photographer is finishing the photos. In today’s advanced technology, photography has arrived into another progressive technical production that not only about capturing pictures, but also producing the best images. Creating quality photographs reveals the photographer’s perspective and enthusiasm. And that passion is very important in photography.

    In this article, you will discover few skills that will help you acquire more inspiration to your photography.

    Learn the possibilities with this guide that will develop you to enhance your photographic skills and abilities, by giving you thirteen Photoshop techniques.

    1. Cropping


    video credit: Photos In Color
    The common and easiest way of editing and or creating an amazing image is by using the Crop process. This task is very easy to understand and do. When you click the Crop Tool, you can drag the selected part of your photos that you want to eliminate. And when you get to explore, there are few innovative features that can be very beneficial for you. Through constantly clicking O on the keyboard you can set by the existing instructions containing rule-of-thirds, golden ratio, golden spiral, whereas pressing on the component character in the toolbar at the upper part of the crossing point will ascend further presentation and other selections. Selecting the Crop Tool sign at the far-left of the toolbar unlocks a list of options having presets, and you can make your particular presets if you frequently crop pictures to specific dimensions.

    2. Quick Mask mode for selections


    video credit: How To Gurus
    Basically, painting with a black brush produces the mask and white deletes it, and by means of a feathered or hard brush forms a hard or soft border for the selection. To type Quick Mask mode, press down Q on the keyboard; when the mask has been produced typing Q down once more goes it into a selection.

    3. Using adjustment layers


    video credit: O’Reilly – Video Training
    Adjustment layers are retrieved by selecting on the half-white, half-black circle sign at the bottom of the Layers panel. Put together all you will need to save it as a TIFF or PSD if you would like to save a photo with adjustment layers since a JPEG is a compacted and compressed document type that doesn’t hold up layers.

    4. Converting to black and white


    video credit: Professional Photography Tips
    The Black and White adjustment layer is a great choice if you opt for a JPEG file in Photoshop and want to change it to monochrome. You’re free to apply one of the twelve presets which is default conversion, or automatically change to greyscale by the sliders.

    5. The Camera Raw filter


    video credit: rafy A
    The appropriate technique to apply this filter is to either create a duplicate of the Background layer, or combine the evident layers into a different layer above of the stack (choose the foremost layer and press Ctrl/Command Prompt + Alt/ Option + Shift + E), then go to Filter > Convert For Smart Filters. You are now able to use the Camera Raw filter, and return and edit your adjustments later if you need.

    6. Healing Brush


    video credit: Katherine Jackson
    To apply the tool, press down the Alt/Option key and click near to the part you wish to touch up to sample the extra pixels for the healing, afterward, click and drag to brush the tested pixels into the part you want to correct.

    7. Customize the workspace


    video credit: Terry White
    The default Photography Workspace has all necessary tools for photographers that Adobe thinks must have by using Photoshop, nonetheless, one size hardly fits all, so it’s worth modifying the section layout to be appropriate on your manner of working. Sections on the right of the Photoshop interface is possible to remove by trailing them out of the dock, and different ones included by going to Window menu in the leading menu bar and choosing the wanted panel.

    8. Dodge and burn


    video credit: Prince Meyson
    To apply the Dodge and Burn tools, use on either the Background layer or a duplicate of it, as the tools are ‘negative’, as they always change pixels. Now you can just smooth the part with the Dodge Tool to increase brightness, or with the Burn Tool to decrease brightness. These tools have Shadows, Mid-tones or Highlights. The tools are best for low exposure for example 5-10% and create the desired outcome systematically.

    9. Create a contact sheet


    video credit: Bojan Živković
    To make a contact sheet, place the desired photos, or duplicates of them, in a folder. Then go to File > Automate > Contact Sheet II and arrange selections such as image source, paper size, and layout. After all, has been designated Photoshop will produce contact sheets to be saved automatically.

    10. Blending Modes


    video credit: Photoshop Training Channel
    Just creating a duplicate of the Background layer by choosing it and pressing Ctrl + J, you can blend already. With the different layer ready, go to the drop-down menu above of the Layers panel – it is fixed to Normal by default – and test with the diverse mixing modes.

    11. Frequency Separation


    video credit: Brandy Renee Photography TV
    It is very applicable in evening out skin. Use carefully and in balance.

    12. Crushing Highlights with Curves


    video credit: utvid
    Crushing highlights by taking the top point on the right side below slightly, and then place another point close to it decreasing its tonal range.

    13. Warp Tool


    video credit: Blue Lightning TV Photoshop
    This tool is useful for fine-tuning a part of a photo. The step is easy. Just press CMD + T + Warp tool.

  • How to Find the Best Photo Editing Services in Seattle

    How to Find the Best Photo Editing Services in Seattle

    Photo Editing Service is one trending topic for shutterbugs at the moment. But, why is it? Basically, a photo editing service corrects the photographs that you take. By way of a tangible image editing service itself, this can be made of comprehensive modifications of colors and exposure through a series of photos, effectively to local changes on an image-by-image groundwork like dodging and burning, cropping or spot deletion. As well as photo restorations, the photo editing services can likewise take in things such as removing and resizing, photo repair, color correction, image enhancement and graphic design.

    One of the main purposes of photo editing services is to save time. You can have so much time for yourself and other stuff you want to do when you have someone else to mind all of your post-production. Especially when that someone is expert in this field. Your photos will be professionally done.

    Before looking for best photo editing services, here’s an essay on what are the essential things to find the best one out there.

    Seek for a Photography Enthusiast

    One should have a keen on details for you to have a good edited image. It is a must to have a photography skill such to have a good eye for photo quality and vivid substance.

    Be Practical

    The editing of your photos depends on the quality of your images. One should always give excellent photographs to repair it smoothly. Your photo repair can’t work wonders, so better have your hopes on balance with your existing work.

    Don’t anticipate exactness

    Your photo repair can’t give you what you want all the time. There will always be occurrences where photos aren’t edited correctly how you want them to be. Expect that it will turn out just right.

    Be Persistent

    Inevitably there are some errors in the process. The photo editing service you hire may not get what you want for your photos and even not to meet your expectation, but you need to be patient because there will always be a trial and error approach. And how to do that is through number 4.

    Be Communicative

    This is a must for you to have a good outcome. It will simply make all things stress-free afterward.

    —-

    Featured photo credit to https://www.digitaltrends.com/.

  • Real Estate Photographers Online Marketing Tips

    Real Estate Photographers Online Marketing Tips

    These days, the demand for real estate has been steadily increasing and the competition from real estate agents and professionals including photographers are becoming fiercer. Buyers are increasingly doing their research online, and as a real estate photographer, you need to come up with online marketing skills to make sure you stand out from the crowd and separate yourself from the pack.

    If you want to be ahead of the game, here are some online marketing tips for real estate photographers.

    1. Use social media.

    Posting your photos on social media is one of the best ways to get attention from potential clients. Nowadays, everyone has an account in social media. Set up an account in the major networks – Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and Instagram). You can interact with users, share your photos and promote your brand for free.

    In a study conducted by Social Media Examiner, photos generate more engagement. In Facebook alone, posts with images get an 87% interaction rate. Don’t forget to include relevant links to send all the traffic back to your website, create relevant captions, and engage with clients by replying to their comments.

    2. Post videos on Youtube.

    Youtube is the world’s second largest social media network with more than 1 billion unique user visit per month. Hence, any business should involve Youtube as a part of their online marketing plan. It is a good platform to showcase your skills as a photographer to millions of users. Create a Youtube channel and make a video highlighting your work to reach a wider audience. It is a good way to boost your online presence and generate clients.

    3. Create a website.

    One of the best ways to show off your portfolio is through creating a website. Make sure the website is easy to navigate and provides all the necessary information that the clients might need. Learn about SEO and find the best keywords to increase traffic to your website. Make it also mobile friendly as consumers nowadays spend most of their time on their mobile devices.

    4. Register on Stilio.com.

    Stilio’s goal is to connect real estate professionals with photographers. It’s a nationwide network that helps photographers get exposure from real estate agents in need of listing photography. Being a member is free so it’s a great way to get started in marketing your works online in a risk-free way. Stilio also does the job of giving assistance to photographers so they can focus on getting their business up and running. These include calendar management, invoicing, payment processing, managing, editing, and reporting. Here’s how the site works:

    • Sign up. It’s free to be part of Stilio network, and the site only charges a small photo per fee when you complete an order.

    • Complete your profile.

    1. Set your own pricing and availability.
    2. Select the products you want to offer.
    3. Choose areas of service and travel fees.
    4. Add profile image and cover pictures.
    5. Set your own terms and conditions.

    • Get approved. The website reviews the profile and portfolio of the real estate photographer. Once approved, you can update your profile to help you stand out and begin to generate business. Highlight your strengths and show real estate agents what they will benefit from hiring you to shoot their listings.

    5. Use a real estate photo editing service.

    A picture is worth a thousand words, and in today’s real estate business, an appealing and attractive photograph definitely gives you a higher chance of selling fast. As a photographer, post-processing photos is a daunting task. In fact, recent studies have shown that photographers spend almost thirty percent of their time editing photos, almost thrice as much as actually shooting pictures. Through the use of a real estate editing service, you save time, money and effort by passing the task to an outsource company.

    Basically, a photo editing service edits the photos for you. Examples of these services are usually retouching the background, adding a dusk sky, item removal, High Dynamic Range (HDR) processing, HDR image composites, CGI renders, virtual staging, and 2D or 3D floor plan redraws. These kinds of services are well suited for real estate photographers looking to save time in their online marketing activities. The company does the job for you, which allows more time to run your business and deal with existing and potential clients.

    The real estate photo editing service is one of the most in demand industries and there are many outsource companies claiming to be the best one. But what makes a good photo editing service company? Make sure that the company matches your budget without sacrificing the quality, has positive customer reviews, uses the latest software in photo editing, and has a team of professionals that are well-trained and highly-skilled.

     

    Featured photo via myventurepad.