Commercial Photography Techniques

Hi there,

I'm just an ammateur and would like to get started with commercial shoots, I'd appreciate it if you can post some tips on this matter. I learned photography the hardway, trial and error. Though on this matter, I'd rather talk to people that knows their stuff.

Thanks so much!

Well, what in particular do you want to do? Commercial (product)? Fashion? Weddings? Portraiture? Stock/fine art? Photojournalism? Or are you looking for tips on starting the business? In any case, you'll need to be somewhat more specific than you have been.

there is NO such a thing as commercial techniques as you imagined.

photography is all about light and how to use light, regardless in which category you are taking on, either use available light or create your own lighting set up.

When it comes to commercial photography, creativity is the key. You must have an unusual eye and creative thinking to make it in this business. And ask yourself, why should clients go with your ideas and work rather than others?

If you are looking for shortcut, sorry mate, i doubt there is any, buy some books on lighting techniques and experiement with the set up and effects, also try get a job as commercial photographer's assistant, those two are probably the quickest and most efficient way to learn.

Hi SGU - Just wanted to thank you for your feedback on many of the issues that are being raised. I hope the problems you experienced with my website have been fixed now, your feedback is appreciated. It appears you have landed on your feet with the opportunities at MUFC - can I ask how you managed to get involved in this ... I would have thought getting access to Old Trafford would be difficult at the best of times !???? . Rgds David

Jon & sGu,

Thanks for the responses.

I think this is what my questions was really.

I guess, I have to see things in a more "queer" way when doing some product shots. I guess I wanted to know what the photographer thinks when he/she does shoots for magazines. (I have some creatives people friends that think out of this world stuff ) I mean, who would've thought that by stacking 3 shoes of different colors but same style would come out attracting women to buying the shoes? I guess it could be the art director's idea.

Anyways, thanks again. I really appreciate it.