Hello, hi, how are you? Happy Friday!!
This was one of my most asked questions and a long-awaited blog post topic!! If you've DM'd me and asked for all of my tips/tricks or how I take my brand photos/product shots and where are the best locations to take photos then this is for you.
WELCOME!
I am going to give you evvvverything you need to know in order to get that perfect Instagram-worthy photo. Whether you work for a brand or you just want to take 'aesthetic' photos/videos for your Instagram or something you love and use, then keep reading...
So, first things first: For me to love a photo that I can use for my own Instagram and send to a brand for approval it has to be within my color scheme and 'aesthetic' if not, I won't end up using it. Why? because my Instagram is a brand.
I need to keep it on brand.
My feed is important to me because I want everything to be clean and appealing to a person's eye. That is key. Especially if you are just starting out and want to work with brands. Make sure you stay on brand and keep your posts clean and appealing.
It just doesn't make sense to post a photo with bright colors and then another one being too neutral or dark.
Hope that makes sense.
It should all fall into place with each photo. I even do that with my videos. If you're lost go look at my Instagram for examples.
Next, in order to take a good photo, make sure you are using a good camera. It doesn't have to be crazy expensive to be good quality. But, make sure it's not an outdated phone.
I use my iPhone 13 most of the time. Before I take my product photos or videos I make sure I have an aesthetically pleasing area.
For me, that's usually a coffee table with designer books, a candle, etc. Once I get my location/area down I focus on lighting.
Shooting at the right time is key too. Make sure you know when sunrise and sunset time is in order to get that good lighting.
I make sure my windows are open for natural light and make sure there are no shadows ruining my photo or video. If you see shadows after you captured the shot it's okay, I always go back and edit to take away as many shadows and darkness as I feel the need to.
Don't think too hard, go with the flow and enjoy.
Have fun with the camera. I always think candid photos are the best ones or at least the ones that are live because you can choose through many more options at the end. ( My tip: the photos where you try too hard or pose too much are usually the ones that don’t look best )
Try to keep the posing as natural as possible.
Again, live photos are key in order to get that good 'candid' shot.
If you struggle with posing I highly recommend you go on Pinterest and look up some inspo posing photos. It helps a lot. Especially if you have a hard time coming up with new poses or just struggle with brain fog/burnout like I do. lol.
Pinterest can help a lot creatively too.
For videos: I film them with flash and I make sure to get real close to a product to capture its details and go back out too.
For photos: I take close-ups and a product shot of something 'cute' next to it whether it's a vanity, coffee table, candle, etc. Find something that pairs nicely with the piece you are capturing.
Details always matter.
For photos of you: My husband is the one usually to take my photos, if not then it's a professional photographer. But, usually for photos of you with a product or showcasing a product make sure your face is clearly in the frame with the item you are showing off. Look relaxed. Don't pose too much. Again, have fun with it.
You can tell when you take a photo. It tells a story and expressions are everything!!
Pay attention to the background and to the things surrounding you. I've had many photos taken where they were so good but I just hated the background or the things around me. It was my mistake to not notice before and I regretted it later.
Focus on a filter color, like I mentioned above I have a color scheme. My feed is mainly neutrals with a bit of black. I coordinate and plan everything before I post or take a photo. It will help you if you have a niche for your Insta.
If you need help with figuring out what colors to go for I recommend using Lightroom, looking through their filters, and play around to see which fits best to your style and taste.
Now, moving on to the BEST photo-taking locations...
This one's important in order for your feed to go with the flow and look nice and neat with a color pattern.
I usually go for a light, airy, natural, hint of green (maybe plants or trees) and some locations with beige or black furniture. All modern. Nothing too flashy or bright. EVER.
(unless I do a quick change-up for a summer-looking theme )
Overall, my niche and brand colors are NEUTRAL.
Here are some of my favorite locations:
- DTLA
- PASADENA HALL
- BEVERLY HILLS
- MELROSE
- WEST HOLLYWOOD
(These are my top recommended places to shoot content that are FREE)
Now, if you want to go to a paid studio, Peerspace has LOTS of options that can suit your niche, style & taste!
Peerspace (click here to get $50 off your first booking!)
(This is usually where my professional brand shoots are located and taken. Check them out here to see prices and booking info)
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