8 answers
Orion
Student
Rock Hill, South Carolina
10
Questions
Asked
948 views
How Do We Take Pictures Of Our Band That Look Professional?
How would we go about taking pictures of our band, we want something professional that we can post to our social media accounts to get more interaction out of our audience, we don't know wether we should pay a photographer to take pictures of us, or if its something our buddies could do with their iPhone. We just need more engaging pictures, and something to show places we want to get gigs at.
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8 answers
Simona Hunt
Project Manager
41
Answers
Washington, Washington
Updated
Simona’s Answer
Hi Orion,
That's great that you all want photos of the band. There are several steps you can take with a camera or phone that can help you get some great shots. Try some of the following:
1. Choose a location
2. Use a camera or phone
3. Set up the shot (recommend doing outdoors to get natural light)
4. Use plenty of light (natural, flash, etc.) to capture everything
Adding a couple of articles to help below:
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Professional-Photos-of-Yourself
https://shotkit.com/how-to-take-pictures-of-yourself/
Invest in a camera/phone
Get an area to take photo/make sure you like the background
Organize what everyone will wear
Get together and take some shots to see what you like
Edit photos online
That's great that you all want photos of the band. There are several steps you can take with a camera or phone that can help you get some great shots. Try some of the following:
1. Choose a location
2. Use a camera or phone
3. Set up the shot (recommend doing outdoors to get natural light)
4. Use plenty of light (natural, flash, etc.) to capture everything
Adding a couple of articles to help below:
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Professional-Photos-of-Yourself
https://shotkit.com/how-to-take-pictures-of-yourself/
Simona recommends the following next steps:
Kodi Sarlett (Shiflett)
Software Engineer
25
Answers
Hayward, California
Updated
Kodi’s Answer
Hi Orion, I'm not a professional photographer but I do do it as a hobby. You don't need an expensive camera or to pay someone (unless it's in your budget). The great thing about technology now is that iPhones and other cell phones have GREAT cameras especially for things like social media. I few things to think about for your photos. 1) Your bands brand, how do you want to be portrayed in your photos and the places you want to play what sort of bands usually play there? If there are some bands you like or draw some inspiration from then take a look at their pictures online. Notice the angles (high, low, leveled) and phones now can also shoot at wide angles which give nice effects from low and high angles. So do some research with your band and practice poses. 2) Think about the location you'd like to have your photos in, garage, park, next to a graffiti wall, one of your gigs while on stage, etc. 3) Which ever band member has the best camera phone or if another friend has a good one ask to use that and show them examples of what kind of shots you want and take as many as you can/want, have fun with it and be creative.
After the shots are done you can edit them with apps like snapseed (its free). It's really easy to use and I'm sure there are tutorials online if you need some more advice on using it to edit. I've taken really nice nature photos and use this app when on the go. So you don't have to spend a lot of money to get good content for your band. So research ideas, look up locations and find a friend with a phone (or your own) and have fun. It can be just that simple especially just starting out. Hope this helps, best of luck.
After the shots are done you can edit them with apps like snapseed (its free). It's really easy to use and I'm sure there are tutorials online if you need some more advice on using it to edit. I've taken really nice nature photos and use this app when on the go. So you don't have to spend a lot of money to get good content for your band. So research ideas, look up locations and find a friend with a phone (or your own) and have fun. It can be just that simple especially just starting out. Hope this helps, best of luck.
Houcine Lakhchach
Career Development Specialist | U.S Department exchange Alumnus | EFL/ESL trainer | Program manager
139
Answers
Kenitra, Gharb-Chrarda-Beni Hssen, Morocco
Updated
Houcine’s Answer
Hey Orion,
Firstly, define your band's aesthetic and personality to guide the photo shoot. Choose locations that resonate with your style, considering natural light for a flattering look. Second, plan compositions that showcase each band member, experimenting with both posed and candid shots. Ensure that everyone is engaged and visible. Third, whether using an iPhone or a professional camera, pay attention to settings, using features like portrait mode or adjusting exposure for optimal results. Fourth, coordinate outfits for a cohesive look, considering colors and patterns that align with your band's image. Fifth, during the shoot, capture a mix of professional and candid moments for variety. Finally, in post-production, edit photos to enhance colors and sharpness, creating visually striking images. Whether opting for a professional photographer or using your buddies and an iPhone, these steps will help you capture engaging band photos for social media and promotional purposes.
Firstly, define your band's aesthetic and personality to guide the photo shoot. Choose locations that resonate with your style, considering natural light for a flattering look. Second, plan compositions that showcase each band member, experimenting with both posed and candid shots. Ensure that everyone is engaged and visible. Third, whether using an iPhone or a professional camera, pay attention to settings, using features like portrait mode or adjusting exposure for optimal results. Fourth, coordinate outfits for a cohesive look, considering colors and patterns that align with your band's image. Fifth, during the shoot, capture a mix of professional and candid moments for variety. Finally, in post-production, edit photos to enhance colors and sharpness, creating visually striking images. Whether opting for a professional photographer or using your buddies and an iPhone, these steps will help you capture engaging band photos for social media and promotional purposes.
Ellen Rosenthal
Retired Art Teacher
239
Answers
Woodbridge, Virginia
Updated
Ellen’s Answer
Hi Orion
If you don't want to take the photos yourself, and you don't want to spend a lot of money, then why not contact your high school's art teacher, (the one who teaches photography), or the computer graphics teacher, or the teacher who is coordinating the school yearbook. Ask them if they know of a student who is reliable and especially good in photography, and who would be willing to take photos of your band. If you can't find a photographer at your high school, then you could contact the art department of your local college or university. I am certain, you will find some student photographer happy to get this job. Once you contact the student photographer, you can discuss their fee and the other logistics (see below).
This would give a student a great opportunity to use their skills and talents, and it would give them a start as a professional photographer. Even better, if the student was looking to apply to an art school, such photos would be a welcome addition to their portfolio.
As with hiring any professional, ask to see samples of the student photographer's work. If possible, interview more than one student photographer and choose the one who has the photographic skills you want and seems easy to work with. Try to have an idea of the "look" you want from the photos. You might show them examples of the types of photos you want, so look at photos of other bands' for ideas. Plan to give them a down payment upfront, say 50%-20% of the fee, and the rest after the photos are "delivered". Do not give them the entire fee upfront. Discuss if you want digital copies that you will print out, or if the student photographer will print the photos as part of the fee. If you want the photos printed, then discuss how many and the sizes (you can discuss this after the session). Discuss the time factor as to how long the photo session would be. Discuss if you want to pose for the photos, or if you want photos taken "live" from one of your performances, or both. Discuss how soon you want the photos, and try to set a date by which you expect to have them. I suggest you put all this in writing in a simple "contract": the fee, the down payment, the time factor, when you want the photos delivered, and how you want them delivered. Both of you will sign this, so that it is clear to both of you what is expected on both your parts. You can easily go online to see samples of band contracts, just Google.
Best wishes! Hope this helps!
If you don't want to take the photos yourself, and you don't want to spend a lot of money, then why not contact your high school's art teacher, (the one who teaches photography), or the computer graphics teacher, or the teacher who is coordinating the school yearbook. Ask them if they know of a student who is reliable and especially good in photography, and who would be willing to take photos of your band. If you can't find a photographer at your high school, then you could contact the art department of your local college or university. I am certain, you will find some student photographer happy to get this job. Once you contact the student photographer, you can discuss their fee and the other logistics (see below).
This would give a student a great opportunity to use their skills and talents, and it would give them a start as a professional photographer. Even better, if the student was looking to apply to an art school, such photos would be a welcome addition to their portfolio.
As with hiring any professional, ask to see samples of the student photographer's work. If possible, interview more than one student photographer and choose the one who has the photographic skills you want and seems easy to work with. Try to have an idea of the "look" you want from the photos. You might show them examples of the types of photos you want, so look at photos of other bands' for ideas. Plan to give them a down payment upfront, say 50%-20% of the fee, and the rest after the photos are "delivered". Do not give them the entire fee upfront. Discuss if you want digital copies that you will print out, or if the student photographer will print the photos as part of the fee. If you want the photos printed, then discuss how many and the sizes (you can discuss this after the session). Discuss the time factor as to how long the photo session would be. Discuss if you want to pose for the photos, or if you want photos taken "live" from one of your performances, or both. Discuss how soon you want the photos, and try to set a date by which you expect to have them. I suggest you put all this in writing in a simple "contract": the fee, the down payment, the time factor, when you want the photos delivered, and how you want them delivered. Both of you will sign this, so that it is clear to both of you what is expected on both your parts. You can easily go online to see samples of band contracts, just Google.
Best wishes! Hope this helps!
Laura Mills
Graphic Designer
41
Answers
Lenhartsville, PA
Updated
Laura’s Answer
Hello Orion,
What a great question! You absolutely can take your own band photos that will look professional. My biggest recommendation, if you do decide to do it yourselves, is to make sure you have a big enough space to work with to do different poses/stances, have the band positioned at their instruments for a photo, use some props in any photos, etc. I believe you definitely can use an iPhone, and they come out looking just as professional, especially with all the features the new ones have. Just make sure to look into either buying or asking a friend if they have a tripod with a wireless remote as this will make taking the photos much simpler.
I also wanted to add that if you do take the picture yourselves, if you need a solid color background I recommend checking out a dollar store and finding a poster board of the solid color you want to use in the photos. An alternative to this is after taking the pictures, in the editing phase the background can be replaced with something that you all would want; if using this option I highly recommend using Adobe Photoshop as the tools in the software make the completed edited version look very clean and professional.
My last piece of advice is along with the iPhone tripod with wireless remote, it might be best to have some lights around where the photos are taken, even if it's just some sunlight and/or a few lamps that you have access to use. You can brighten it up more in editing if needed, but my rule of thumb is it's better to have some already added existing light before taking the picture than none at all because it is easier to add in more if needed, but difficult to add in all of it when editing.
I hope this helps you decide what you would like to do, and I wish you and your band the best of luck at taking your own band photos.
-Laura M.
What a great question! You absolutely can take your own band photos that will look professional. My biggest recommendation, if you do decide to do it yourselves, is to make sure you have a big enough space to work with to do different poses/stances, have the band positioned at their instruments for a photo, use some props in any photos, etc. I believe you definitely can use an iPhone, and they come out looking just as professional, especially with all the features the new ones have. Just make sure to look into either buying or asking a friend if they have a tripod with a wireless remote as this will make taking the photos much simpler.
I also wanted to add that if you do take the picture yourselves, if you need a solid color background I recommend checking out a dollar store and finding a poster board of the solid color you want to use in the photos. An alternative to this is after taking the pictures, in the editing phase the background can be replaced with something that you all would want; if using this option I highly recommend using Adobe Photoshop as the tools in the software make the completed edited version look very clean and professional.
My last piece of advice is along with the iPhone tripod with wireless remote, it might be best to have some lights around where the photos are taken, even if it's just some sunlight and/or a few lamps that you have access to use. You can brighten it up more in editing if needed, but my rule of thumb is it's better to have some already added existing light before taking the picture than none at all because it is easier to add in more if needed, but difficult to add in all of it when editing.
I hope this helps you decide what you would like to do, and I wish you and your band the best of luck at taking your own band photos.
-Laura M.
Dexter Arver
Senior Manager, Web Applications
232
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Dexter’s Answer
Hey Orion,
If you're not in a hurry, I would try the free (phone) option first—it'll only cost time and it'll teach you stuff. My only advice is to look at dozens of other bands photos to get a feel for what you want your photo to look like and when you take photos, take a variety of poses and looks. One big tip is that most of photos that look "good" or "professional" is not based on the camera or the lens, but is purely the beautiful light that you can get at sunset/sunrise. So yeah, schedule your photoshoot for 1 hr before the sunset and shoot up to 30 minutes past the sunset itself, and you'll have really pretty light to work with.
If you do that above and aren't satisfied, then maybe you can contact/hire a photographer. The benefit of doing this second is that by this point, you'll know what look you're going for, so you'll be able to direct the photographer better, and you'll be happier w/the outcome.
Lastly, ask your fans if any are budding photographers. Maybe you'll find someone like my friend who shoots photos of local bands as a hobby.
--
Dexter
If you're not in a hurry, I would try the free (phone) option first—it'll only cost time and it'll teach you stuff. My only advice is to look at dozens of other bands photos to get a feel for what you want your photo to look like and when you take photos, take a variety of poses and looks. One big tip is that most of photos that look "good" or "professional" is not based on the camera or the lens, but is purely the beautiful light that you can get at sunset/sunrise. So yeah, schedule your photoshoot for 1 hr before the sunset and shoot up to 30 minutes past the sunset itself, and you'll have really pretty light to work with.
If you do that above and aren't satisfied, then maybe you can contact/hire a photographer. The benefit of doing this second is that by this point, you'll know what look you're going for, so you'll be able to direct the photographer better, and you'll be happier w/the outcome.
Lastly, ask your fans if any are budding photographers. Maybe you'll find someone like my friend who shoots photos of local bands as a hobby.
--
Dexter
David Wuerth
Freelance Photojournalist/ Sports Photographer
114
Answers
Nampa, Idaho
Updated
David’s Answer
If you want professional photographs, hire a professional. It appears you live close to a major city and should have no problem finding a competent photographer.
Before you hire , or approach anyone to shoot pictures, sit down with your bandmates and hash out what you want your images to look like. This includes what you wear and what your location should be.
I would suggest you be aware of light. The less light you have, the harder it is to produce a decent image.
With the quality of phone cameras now available, you should be able to produce good images. Have whoever is shooting, shoot lots of images. The more you shoot, the better the odds of getting a good image.
This should be a fun project for everybody!
Before you hire , or approach anyone to shoot pictures, sit down with your bandmates and hash out what you want your images to look like. This includes what you wear and what your location should be.
I would suggest you be aware of light. The less light you have, the harder it is to produce a decent image.
With the quality of phone cameras now available, you should be able to produce good images. Have whoever is shooting, shoot lots of images. The more you shoot, the better the odds of getting a good image.
This should be a fun project for everybody!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Orion,
Tips for Taking Professional-Looking Band Photos
If you want to take professional-looking photos of your band to post on your social media accounts and increase engagement, here are some tips to help you achieve that:
1. Invest in good equipment: While it's possible to take good photos with a smartphone, investing in a good camera can make a big difference. Consider purchasing a DSLR camera or renting one for a day.
2. Hire a professional photographer: A professional photographer can help you create high-quality photos that showcase your band's image and style. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to capture the best moments.
3. Use good lighting: Good lighting is essential for taking professional-looking photos. Natural light is best, so try to schedule your photo shoot during the golden hour (the hour just before sunset) or in a well-lit indoor space.
4. Choose a suitable location: The location you choose for your photo shoot can make or break the look and feel of your photos. Choose a location that complements your band's style and image.
5. Dress for the occasion: Make sure your band members are dressed appropriately for the photo shoot. Choose outfits that are comfortable and fit well, and consider coordinating your outfits to create a cohesive look.
6. Practice poses: Practice different poses before the photo shoot to ensure you look natural and comfortable in front of the camera.
7. Experiment with angles: Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to add variety to your photos.
8. Edit your photos: Editing your photos can help enhance the overall look and feel of your photos. Use photo editing software to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color balance.
References:
1. "The Musician's Guide to Taking Great Photos" by David J. Hollingsworth
2. "Band Photography: Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Band" by David J. Hollingsworth
3. "The Art of Band Photography" by David J. Hollingsworth
These references provide valuable information and tips on how to take professional-looking photos of your band. They cover topics such as equipment, lighting, location, posing, and editing, and offer practical advice for creating high-quality photos that showcase your band's image and style.
Tips for Taking Professional-Looking Band Photos
If you want to take professional-looking photos of your band to post on your social media accounts and increase engagement, here are some tips to help you achieve that:
1. Invest in good equipment: While it's possible to take good photos with a smartphone, investing in a good camera can make a big difference. Consider purchasing a DSLR camera or renting one for a day.
2. Hire a professional photographer: A professional photographer can help you create high-quality photos that showcase your band's image and style. They will have the necessary equipment and expertise to capture the best moments.
3. Use good lighting: Good lighting is essential for taking professional-looking photos. Natural light is best, so try to schedule your photo shoot during the golden hour (the hour just before sunset) or in a well-lit indoor space.
4. Choose a suitable location: The location you choose for your photo shoot can make or break the look and feel of your photos. Choose a location that complements your band's style and image.
5. Dress for the occasion: Make sure your band members are dressed appropriately for the photo shoot. Choose outfits that are comfortable and fit well, and consider coordinating your outfits to create a cohesive look.
6. Practice poses: Practice different poses before the photo shoot to ensure you look natural and comfortable in front of the camera.
7. Experiment with angles: Don't be afraid to experiment with different angles and perspectives to add variety to your photos.
8. Edit your photos: Editing your photos can help enhance the overall look and feel of your photos. Use photo editing software to adjust the brightness, contrast, and color balance.
References:
1. "The Musician's Guide to Taking Great Photos" by David J. Hollingsworth
2. "Band Photography: Tips for Taking Great Photos of Your Band" by David J. Hollingsworth
3. "The Art of Band Photography" by David J. Hollingsworth
These references provide valuable information and tips on how to take professional-looking photos of your band. They cover topics such as equipment, lighting, location, posing, and editing, and offer practical advice for creating high-quality photos that showcase your band's image and style.