Our question of the day comes from Sue, "How do you become a professional photographer. When do you consider yourself to be a professional photographer...?"
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]]>Here's how it works:
We'll choose a theme and you'll post a photo on our Facebook page.
By sharing your photos here, you are allowing BP4U to repost them on our blog (with credit to you - of course) if we feel so inspired. So when you post it, please remember to put something like "Photo courtesy of...your name, or ____ photography...whoever credit is due" so that we can properly credit your work.
*You can post one photo per day during the fall photo challenge time frame.
We will select our favorite photo and feature it on our blog. Yay, exposure! :) But wait...it gets better. The featured photographer will also receive their photo on a wrapped canvas! You can pick your size--up to a 16x24.
*This is a FREE canvas, but if you live outside of the US, winner may be subject to shipping costs.
I just love this time of year, so what better theme to start with than this beautiful season we are in. We want to see your all-time favorite fall photo that you've taken. Post to our Facebook page this week for your chance to win your fave fall photo on canvas and to have it featured on our blog. :)
Remember:
*1 photo per day
*Don't forget to let us know who needs to be credited for the image
Submission period will run from now until midnight on Monday, October 1st, 2012. We will then go through and pick out our favorite and announce the winner sometime next week, so keep an eye out for that here on our blog.
We look forward to seeing all of your photos! :)
]]>We fully realize that it's definitely not Tuesday but we thought that title just had a little ring to it! :) Once a month we will pick a random day and put a HUGE, we are talking GIGANTIC discount on one of our guides. See below for which guide it is!
Today we are putting "The Photographer's Guide to Second Shooting a Wedding" on sale for $2! Yes, you read that correctly!
Not sure if wedding photography is for you? This 87 page guide is the guide to read.
Who is this guide for?
Are you not sure if wedding photography is for you? Are you interested in learning about becoming a second shooter but have no idea what that entails? If you have these questions, this guide is for you!
Do you already shoot weddings and are thinking about adding a second shooter to your team? Not sure what to tell them and how to lay it all out in a way they will understand? This guide is also for you!
This guide is essential for any wedding photography studio. If you are thinking about hiring second shooters, this guide is the perfect tool to send to them to let them know the expectations and roles of a second shooter. We’ve also made it easier with some great applications and questionnaires to send to them as well!
Use code dollar at checkout to get it for $2!
See what all is covered in this guide by clicking here!
What other photogs are sayin' about this guide:
"I gave my second shooter this guide to read before she ever started helping with weddings. She's done two weddings with me this month and is a total rock star! She is always aware of her surroundings and never getting in my shot. She double shoots everything, but from another perspective, so they are completely different images instead of a bunch of duplicates. I'm really impressed by how awesome she is. She told me that she learned so much from this guide. I was really nervous about hiring a second shooter because I thought we'd always be bumping into each other and it'd be more hassle than help, but it's amazing.." Anne
"I'm a newbie trying to figure out what area of photography I want to pursue. I thought that I would give weddings a try. I purchased the second shooter guide before my first wedding and it is full of so much information! Even before the wedding day came, I was completely prepared and knew exactly what to do. It gave me confidence in knowing my place. The lead photographer said that she would love to have me second shoot for her again because I was so helpful. I really enjoyed this wedding and can't wait for the next. :)" Jennifer
"As a long time wedding photographer, I've never had such a great second shooter as the one that I recently hired. I asked him how many weddings he had done before and he said that it was his first. I was blown away. I told him that I thought he'd been in the business for a while and asked him how he knew what he was supposed to do because I gave him very little direction. He was so professional and on top of things. He told me about this guide, and I just purchased it for my company to send to all of my second shooters from here on out. It even has questionnaires and sample e-mails. So great! Thanks BP4U!" Alexandra
Thanks to everyone who participated in our giveaway! We will be announcing the next giveaway by the end of this week! GET EXCITED! I sure am! :D
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Check it out! We got a branding makeover!
Ta-da! Feeling clean and refreshed and ready to crank out some more goodies for you guys! Stay tuned to our blog for exciting things coming soon! :)
]]>Grand Prize Winner: Erin Mitchell will receive a $500 gift card to BP4U Guide Store. Offer cannot be combined with any other sale items. Also will receive a custom Blog/Website badge stating “Voted BP4U’s 2012 Best Senior Photographer.”
2nd Prize Winner: Erick Claytor will receive a $250 gift card to BP4U Guide Store. Offer cannot be combined with any other sale items. Also will receive a custom Blog/Website badge stating “Voted One Of BP4U’s 2012 Top Senior Photographers.”
3rd Prize Winner: Jamie Dobson will receive a $100 gift card to BP4U Guide Store. Offer cannot be combined with any other sale items. Also will receive a custom Blog/Website badge stating “Voted One Of BP4U’s 2012 Top Senior Photographers.”
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QOTD from Amy W: "I feel like I'm not organized enough! I need a better way to keep track of upcoming shoots, all client profiles, pending orders, and due payments! I'm currently using printed order forms in file folders, but I feel like there has to be a better solution! I've thought seriously about trying out ShootQ. Any suggestions?'
Amanda: Yes! Try ShootQ!! Great program and easy to use! Good luck!
Katie: I'm using pixifi and I really like it
Alicia: I do studiocloud :)
Bp4u: i ♥ shootq.
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]]>QOTD from Tracey: "What do other photographers use as a portfolio book to show their work to their clients?"
Stephene: I simply use a tablet and SD card.
JFS Photography: actual prints in an actual album as well as framed prints on the wall
John: i do 4+6 prints in a album i keep all my senior in one and all the family's in one
JFS Photography: remember, a tablet, or monitor, isnt going to show 100% color accuracy...even if its calibrated...because here is why...the lighting in your studio/home/office, etc, is going to be different then the lighting in your clients home/apt. different light will affect calibrations on monitors. so therefore having a hardcopy print to show is alot better
Kelly: Prints in an album & a couple sample products, like a small canvas or photo book.
Heather: my business cards from Moo serve as my pocket on the run portfolio. But I also am working on an actual album as well
Ruby: I just ordered an edibook from Edibility Solutions. I'm anxious to see how it turned out. It's not permanently bound so additional pages can be added.
BP4U: I show clients 1 flush mount album, 2 coffee table book albums and 2 guest books. All those albums from Millers. If I know other people will be at the first meeting I will then load some recent weddings on a tablet to keep the groom/parents of the bride/groom occupied.
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]]>QOTD from Ami: "Question for wedding photographers~ How much do you pay a second shooter?"
Chris: What are they worth. 200 is a good starting price, every few months they are working with you, bring it up 50 bucks.
Morgan: Welll, mine are usually not very "professional" I usually allow them only to capture things that are very basic and sometimes I help them with their settings and such. I pay them $50-$70 and then when I hire another true photographer I pay her $125.
Amy: per hour? or for the day? sorry if it's a silly questions I'm from a smaller town LOL
Jen: 65 per hour for weddings. :)
JFS photography: all depends on how much your charging for the wedding, and are they good?...better the experience, the more you pay...65 is quite high to be honest...most ive seen and even for seasoned pros is 45/hr
Andrea: I'll be paying mine around $200 or so but she is also assisting me with more then just shooting so it depends.... I think $200 or so is good based on experience too
Aaron: Depends a lot on experience. I 2nd shot my first five weddings without getting paid anything, because it was a way for me to gain experience and learn the ropes. If a 2nd is also consistently shooting weddings of his/her own, then they should be paid a higher rate. Amy, I would say a flat rate is more common.
Jen: I pay a minimum to my second shooter for a full day 650 (12 hr wedding ) but it all depends on what your charging as a photog in the first place for photos- if your only charging 1000 then they can't expect a large amount. I always tell my second shooter what I'm charging the client and what shes tgetting paid and expected to do.
Alysha: $50/hour and the client pays for it if they requested a second shooter.
Justina: This is something I have been trying to decide because I want to start having one.
Rexella: I think it depends on the area also. I've talked to several seasoned pros & the average is $35-50 per hr. Of course, this is just basically shooting & giving you the card to download. No editing, main photog does all that.
Tom: I pay $150 for about 6hrs work.
Jenn: And I thought I paid well but apparently not. For rookies 15 and hour. Highest I pay is 25 and hour. I used to work for a girl that only paid me 10 even with experience (and that was only two years ago). Side note I'm in Ohio
BP4U: I think this also has to depend on the usage of the images that the second shooter takes. Do they get to use them in their portfolio? If they do and they are looking to expand their experience and portfolio, I would pay them less per hour. That portfolio is worth a ton of money over the course of their career bc essentially they will be able to book more weddings from it. I think that's a very important factor to keep in mind. I also base the rate on equipment. Are they using your equipment or do they have their own, do they have backup equipment etc. One more thing to keep in mind is posing. Is this second shooter able to step up and pose without your direction if you need them to do that at a certain point throughout the day.
Tara: I am just starting out myself, as is my second shooter. I paid her $20/hr as she did me with her wedding. We both got to use our own images in our portfolio or blog with reference to the main photographer. We are in Lancaster County PA. I know my mentor pays her second shooters $40/hr, obviously they have more experience and she is charging her clients more for a wedding than I am for my weddings.
Amy: Thanks again everyone!! Love the great tips and info I get here!
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]]>QOTD from Selena: "Hey there BP4U Photography Tips & Guides, I'm a new-ish photographer (recently opened my business April 2012,) and am looking to upgrade out of the Canon Rebel series to either an EOS 70D or an EOS 60D. I'm just wondering what other photographers here think. Does any one own either of these cameras? Which one would you guys and gals recommend and why? I shoot typically shoot families and am always searching for new landscape shoots as well. :)"
Christina: Invest in a 5D mkll! Love mine c
Anna: I am following this, wanting to upgrade from my rebel as well....
Corinne: following this as well
Amber: save for a 5d mkII. I had a rebel and there is no comparison.
Georgina: Why change I use a rebel and I love it I also have good lenses and filters you can do loads with it
Brandon: Considering both the 70 and 60 are both huge upgrades to the Rebel series, I'd say that if you wait for the 70D to come out, the 60D price will drop. And since you don't shoot sports, you don't really need the faster continuous drive on the 70D (5.3 vs 5 fps)... oh and I think the 70D has autofocus while shooting video, but personally, I don't use my dSLR for video much.
Valerie: Isn't the 60 still considered a part of the Rebel series? I would go for a 7D or 5DMII.
Chrissey: I've been trying to decide between the 7D and the 5D Mark ii. I've been told that the 7D has a huge noise problem. I did a little looking on line and there are a lot of complaints about the noise. BUT...I've also talked to several photographers that use the 7D and love it. I think I'm going to take the leap and buy the 7D.
Crystal: I think a good midway would be the 7d. You can probably find a good deal on it, and it's sensor is superior to the 60d.
Lissa: I had a rebel as my starter camera. I invested in better lenses first and noticed a HUGE difference in my photos on the rebel. Eventually I upgraded my camera body but I"m glad I invested in the lenses first
Shelbi: And remember if you get the MarkII you'll have to get new lenses.
Kelly: I'd consider a lense upgrade to your rebel.
Elaine: I LOVE my 7D . . . just saying. :-) I use a Canon Rebel as my back up.
Katharine: I also have a Canon Rebel and a 50mm f/1.8 lens...looking for affordable upgrade ideas as well! Either 60D and/or an 85 mm lens are on my radar...
Jaimie: I love love my 7D!!! I would not invest in a 60D as I don't think it is much of an upgrade. But that's just my opinion :)
Amy: I have a Rebel as well, with a 50mm 1.4, and a 100mm 2.8 and currently saving money from my shoots for a Mark II. Will my lenses fit?
Jennifer: I use a 60D and I LOVE it!
Selena: Hey everyone, thanks for all your thoughts and suggestions so far! I've done some more thinking and I'm leaning towards getting a 60D body with a EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM. Lens investment is the best choice anyone can make and if I was to get the 7D right now, I wouldn't be able to afford an L series lens; which is something I'm dying to have!
Selena: @Amy Ruth: Check canon.ca/estore for the Mark II body. From there if you look through all its info, you'll find a spot where Canon lists the lens types that work with the Mark II
Amy: Thanks sooo much Selena! :)
Sara: The upgrade to full frame will change your photography life! Go big or go home :) 5Dmark ll
Selena: I've decided to get the 5D Mark II with the same EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM lens! Thanks for all your help and suggestions everyone! :D
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]]>QOTD from Naty: "Hello... I'm a rookie photogrpaher trying to figure out how to do the templates most of you have on your pages..Promotional Packages?? How Do I do that? Where do I get the background? Special Icons? I need Your help...Thanks"
Elizabeth: Kinda there myself! I really just started testing and exploring my pse9 and I think I am about half way there.
Jennifer: Check out fototale design... Or the album cafe... Great stuff
Cate: Two suggestions: take a horizontal photo with the subject that you are advertising in the far right or left and layer on the promotional words on the other side. OR go to a template store and buy a promotional template that you can fit your photos into. I am a fan of Oh Snap! Boutique. :)
Tisha: I'm a fan of Ashe Designs! They have "$10 Tuesdays" & "$5 Fridays"!
Ashley: I'm in the same boat. Can't wait to hear everyone's suggestions.
Mollie: I have yet to purchase from them, but Oh Snap! Boutique really does have amazing things in their store.
Hessel Photography: I created my own watermark, created a bunch of my own templates using digital scrap paper. and used paint the moon FB timeline template as a header on my FB page.
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]]>QOTD from Emma: "Q for those with online galleries. My client's private online galleries are set up to be available for 2 weeks and 99% of the time they (or their family members) order their artwork within that time. However, I have a couple clients who are super procrastinators. Their sessions were back in June and July. They have asked for a couple extensions, which I was more than happy to accommodate them. However, at some point the gallery needs to be taken down to make room for other current/future clients. How do I remind them, again, that their gallery is waiting for them and they need to make their artwork purchase without sounding like I'm nagging or just want their money?"
Tatiana: I would love to know this too, I have a client gallery that is up from March and they won't place the order :(
Justina: Charge a fee for extensions going forward, $5 or $10 is usually enough to prevent this. But for this time, do you have anything in your contracts stating how long you keep the files for? If so I would say then next time they ask for an extension say it will be the last one since the holiday season will be starting soon and you need to make room for those galleries but they can schedule an in person ordering session when they are ready to order. Hope that helps!
Sonya: I stopped doing client galleries for this reason alone,I now get them in the studio for a viewing or i go to them,thats where I get them on the emotional sale,they see their images for the 1st time and nine times out of ten they are excited about placing an order,I also educate them on my pricing before they come and all decision makers must be present,I even do it for weddings,trust me it works!!
Jenn: I use Instaproofs and you can set whatever length you want. Additionally it auto sends emails with reminders that your gallery is expiring. I found offering a discount (you can also build that in to the gallery) gives people more of an initiative to order quicker.
Jenn: Sonya's suggestion intrigues me :)
Belinda: I honestly got sick and tired of reminding clients again and again that they had to choose the photos because there time would be running out. So now i apply "tough love" I give them say 2 weeks to a month depends on the shoot (ie weddings usually a month) and i give them 2 reminders one when i set it up and the other a week before it closes down. And if they don't choose their images within that time frame, too bad. I know it sounds really bitchy, but there are so many more clients who miss out because of one clients procrastinating. I have had to apply this to 2 groups of clients this year and they weren't happy, but i just explained to them AGAIN that there are other clients waiting on their galleries and its not fair on them to have to wait longer than they should. They ended up making an appointment to view their images and chose on that day. And they also apologised and fully understood why i did what i did. They are both repeat customers as well. I don't know if this will help, but its an idea.
Teresa: Maybe offer an incentive if they order within 2 days? Something like 10% off the order or free shipping might get the ball rolling. When clients ask for extensions, I always tell them it is $25 to re-activate the gallery but then that is used as a credit if they order within the 10 days the gallery is active (or they lose it). That usually keeps them from procrastinating. That way they're not out the $25, and you don't have to keep spending your time re-activating galleries. :)
Sarah: I only give 7 days. 2 weeks is too long.
Brian: Set it up in your contract that post 2 weeks, they will need to pay a fee to keep it available for an extended perio
Patricia: I gently tell them there is a fee to reinstate or extend the gallery :)
Sonya: And for a teaser I may put one or two images on facebook and tag them(providing they have a FB page)this really excites the hell out of them,then they want to see the rest asap
Grace: I can't get people to order at all. All they want are the CD's and I won't give this out for clients to go to Wal Mart and get crap for pictures.
Golden Photography: Unfortunately, there is only so much you can do if you don't have a policy in place within your contract. Email them and ask them if they need help with ordering and offer to meet with them to help them sort things out. In the future, I recommend selling in-person to combat this. If for some reason you are not comfortable selling, tell your clients that their gallery expires in X days and after that, there is a charge to re-activate it ($15 is more than enough to get them to avoid it. You want to keep the sale emotional and get it completed in a short timeframe (which is why I recommend in-person).
Jenna: I use Instaproofs too. Since the reminders are automated (but you can completely customize them) based on the expiration time, you don't even have to worry about it. You don't have to pay for storage with Instaproofs... but you do fulfillment on your own.
E Shay: I send them a reminder email a week before the gallery closes. In that email, I let them know that they have 7 days, & after midnight on the 7th day, their gallery will be closed for orders, & that if they would like to request an extension, ONE 7-day extension can be purchased for $XX. That email usually does the trick and covers all the bases.
Christy: I stopped showing online for that reason. No sneak peeks. In studio appt for first viewing, order then. Reprints after that are at reprint pricing, no discounted pkgs, a la carte only, will post online for those reorders. Facebook post with watermark of ordered images only.
Emma: Thanks for the advice everyone. I have always, and still currently do, give clients a couple sneak peeks on Facebook. I used to do strictly in studio presentations, but with the launch of my website most clients preferred the comfort of their own homes. Plus, with a large majority of my clients being military they have friends and family all over the globe and the website is the only option. Case in point, these clients are in Alaska at our last duty station and we have since moved to Arkansas. I have sent out reminder emails, over and over again. Think I am gonna have to bite the bullet and put my foot down though. I have a reactivation fee of $20 after the gallery is taken down. It's been long enough...if they don't order, then oh well. Just tired of it being up in the air. Again, thanks everyone!
Selena: I offer two different types of DVD's. My standard DVD will contain the clients keeper images at a reduced size of 4x6 with my watermark on every image for INTERNET use only. Sure they can print if they really wanted to but they wouldn't be able to print anything larger then a 4x6 + all the photos would have my watermark.
I then have an advanced DVD which goes along with their full printing rights. This DVD will cost 300+ depending on the amount of photos and will contain all their photos at max file size, no watermarks + sized down watermarked copies. This might be something you can considering offering as well. :)
Emma: selena, I like the idea of having multiple digital options. just might have to start that option. thanks!
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]]>QOTD from Kara: "How do those of you that do not have a formal studio organize and store your props? Have you found a system that works for you?"
Crystal: LOL...I HAVE a formal studio and STILL haven't figured this one out!
Christina: :) I ziplock each of my hats and put a label on the bag, and stick them in a prop suitcase i take everywhere. other then that no organization at all!
Melissa: I purchased a 4 box shelving unit (but more would be nice :) ) and I have separated my props by season along with newborn items. looks professional and neat... now just to decide what to do with the big stuff :D
Rita: I use luggage on wheels and keep fragile items in plastic containers. I keep items that are only used for certain photo shoots in separate luggage bags and only take the suitcase I need. All my stuff is stored in a closet.
Sherrie: I have a large tote and multiple props in a corner in my house.
Selena: I have a whole closet dedicated as well. I have two suitcases (as props themselves,) with one holding all my blankets/fabrics and holding little things like flowers, seashells, bubbles, petals, etc. I then have my large flowers + baby boxes, baskets, etc on the top shelf with my three different benches at the base of my closet. All costumes, loose items and small props are in labeled bags on top of my benches in a hanging basket or the suitcase. I also take photos of all my props so client can look through them and choose their own for sessions. :)
Suz: I'm curious to hear this as well! Mine is not organized!
Suz: Love the suitcase ideas most of mine are in totes or boxes ... I'd like to have drawers for headbands ties etc for newborn etc
Renae: The Ikea expedit bookshelf works a treat
Feel free to keep responding to this question using our comment section below.
]]>QOTD from Stephanie: "I am going to offer a free session to a military family in need in town and I was wondering if anyone has experience in deciding HOW a family is in need/how to choose? Any tips?"
Jael: I would like to know also. Would love to do this
Heather: Photos for solders is an organization that does that. Contact them and they will set you up as a photographer
Jennifer: Maybe ask for nominations? With a story about the families and ask people to vote on the stories via likes?
Addie: Hmm... you could turn it into a sort of contest. Ask for nominations from the community, narrow it down to a few finalists, and then ask your fans/previous customers (newsletter) to vote on the winning family's story. (Bonus for you: spreading PR via word-of-mouth excitement.)
Beth: in my opinion military families are all in need. A lot of them struggle. I would just do a drawing and choose a family that way. Because whos to say who is struggling more? Only speaking from experience. We've been active duty for many years.
Jennifer: I agree w/ Beth. Maybe nominate a "deserving" family?
Stephanie: Thanks for the help guys :-) I totally understand military families in need as we are one. There are two other people in the family who are photographers as well so we are blessed to be 'practice subjects' most of the time. I want to be able to pass on that help. It wasn't meant to be an offensive question... just need ideas on how to help
Emma: Stephanie...my family is a military family, my husband and brother are in the air force, my step brother is in the army and my mama works for the dod. there are so many ways that a family can be "in need". for most military families, especially the enlisted ranks, portraits are an extreme luxury. you may want to start with pre-deloyment portraits. I offer a $75 package for all pre-deployments and homecomings that include my time on location, editing and all images with a print release on a disc. These are extremely emotional times that no military member or their family wants to forget, but like a wedding or a birth it's all a blur soon after. Perhaps you could announce these new session options and kick it off with a free session giveaway to a nominated family. Most of these clients end up being return clients...for boudoir while their loved ones are deployed, for homecoming as well as family portraits later on. The military is the best referral network I've ever seen. If you have any other questions please let me know. Good luck and thank you for thinking of the military. Every "thank you" goes a long way and makes their day every time. :)
Emma: stephanie, i'm a dork...didn't read your comment just above my own. most of what i wrote you already know first hand, sorry. but...i hope my idea still helped. :)
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QOTD from Mariah: "Looking into getting a tripod. What kind fits and works best with a Nikon D80?"
Shannon: Carbon fiber, a little pricey but the light weight of it makes it worth it. Try your local camera store to compair options.
Mariah: Small town they just got rid of our only camera store.
Brian: First thing when considering a tripod, is to calculate your worst case weight scenerio. What is the weight of your camera + heaviest lens + battery + (grip weight if you use it)? Do you plan on getting a heavier lens?
Now that you have your heaviest weight, now you can look into buying a tripod. You must look into one that both head and legs supports your weight and more.
Also consider that the more leg sections, the thinner the last leg will be. That can potentially make it unstable. However the less leg sections potentially makes it longer and less compact.
Carbon fiber vs aluminum. CF are strong stable and light, but are considerably more expensive than aluminum.
Personally, as photographers we spend hundreds if not thousands of dollars on gear. A tripod is meant to hold up and support that investment. One faulty moment is all you need for all that money to just go crashing down on you.. I don't see why anyone would want to go cheap on a tripod.
Melanie: You'll buy cheap tripods your whole career but you'll only buy a great tripod ONCE.
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]]>QOTD from Craig: "What are some of the best workshops/photography conventions you've been to? Looking for some good (not crazy expensive) things to invest in for personal growth. Thanks!!"
Dena: I'm going to Imaging USA for the first time next year!! :)
Nabila: Great question, wondering the same thing!!
Krista: After Dark Education. By far the best investment I have ever made!!
Leslie: Just want to follow.
Pam: I've heard great things about WPPI
Christina: When I signed up to become a member of PPA ( professional photographers of america ) I am able to take classes and attend webinars and live chats. It's great and inexpensive. Give it a try!
Tisha: I went to Imaging USA 2012 in New Orleans & learned so much! I'm heading to GA for the 2013 Imaging! The room is the most expensive thing but if you can find a roomy or two it helps!
Justina: For Imaging USA you don't pay any extra for classes that happen there right?
Craig: Thanks everyone! Keep them coming!
Tisha: If you go to the pre-convention classes you have to pay for each class but during the convention it's one price for the three days of seminars that run all day. The biggest problem is to decide which seminar to go to because they will have several going on at the same time. The expo is huge! My back pack weighed 30lbs from all the samples & catalogs. Tip: Rooms go quick! Was lucky enough to find two great photographers to room with, so book now. Wear comfy clothes & walking shoes! Build upper body strength & start a walking program! lol
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]]>QOTD from Kayla: "Hey guys!;):) what company would you recommend to order quality prints from??"
Misty: Love, love, love ProDPI!
Amanda: I use hhcolor lab and have had good experience with WHCC
Craig: WHCC
Beth: As of right now, I'm very happy with Bay Photo. I've also heard great things about WHCC. :)
Michelle: Whcc and simply color lab are my favorites!
Jess: Mpix
Lewis: Union City Prints in Union City New Jersey! Adrián Bermúdez
Jfs Photography: WHCC is very expensive...Millers(mpix) is second to being expensive...nations photo lab is one of the top...then bayphoto..then ACI
Timothy: Simply Color, WHCC, MpixPro
Lynley: Millers!! Their color is perfect!!
Lynley: Lustrecolor is nice and not as expensive too
Elisha: I love Nations Photo lab, their prices are great and quality fabulous!
Heather: i love Bay Photo Lab !!
Kerry: In Australia I use RGB Digital
Linda: I've started ordering from Nations Photo Lab. I am loving their prints. Prices are very reasonable; print quality is excellent. I have talked with customer support and have no complaints. They take great care shipping your prints, and shipping / processing time is very good.
E Shay: MILLER'S!!!!!!
Kelli: WHCC, Millers.
Jess: Whcc is less expensive then millers..
Morgan: Mpixpro!!! Their color is great and so are their prices! You can do it all in one location!!
Katie: WHCC, great quality and very quick
Jess: whcc
Tim: MPIX
Pam: Nations is great! Very affordable and the print quality is quite nice!
Kim: Has anyone tried CPQ?
Jessi: I would second www.hhcolorlab.com, especially for school and sports - super reasonable pricing and great quality prints.
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]]>QOTD from Daisy: "What are the most important photo shots as a photography must take at a wedding? I am doing my first wedding session in Oct!"
Heather: Daisy!! Let your clients decide.
http://www.shutterfly.com/wedding/to-do-list-photography-checklist.pdf
Kelsey: I think it depends on the couple. I always ask what are the must have shots they want and they always give me a list. Normally I get: bride and groom formals, wedding party formals, family formals and the firsts (kiss, dance etc) those are always the top 3-5.
Luke: Sit down with your client and work out a plan, a few cups of tea/coffee gets people talking and ideas flowing :)!!
Tia: This is GREAT! Thanks Daisy & Heather!
Amie: I send this same checklist to all my wedding clients. I was a bride a year ago and did not get to pick the photo`s I wanted and I was not please with them(they were free from a fellow photographer)
Ashley: I personally think the MUST HAVE shot is the Kiss. that is the exact moment that they are actually married so snap snap away : ), but yes, always discuss what is important to your clients. Ultimately it doesn't matter what you think. I might want the kiss, she might want the grooms expression, and he might want hers when they first see each other. Cant be in 2 places at once so talk about it, and make a game plan! Best of luck!!
E Shay: Create your own list that you go by (Google it). Ask the clients for some shot ideas, but be sure to tell them that those aren't guarantees and that you will do everything you can to get them. But truth is, the day of, you're NOT going to be looking at checklists because you will be TOO BUSY. You don't want to promise something to your client and then get caught up shooting the bride and groom during the only moment that old Aunt Beatrice decides to come out of her hiding place, so you might miss the shot of Aunt Bea to get some fabulous ones of the bride/groom. Don't commit to any shots, but tell them you will TRY.
Dawn: I would say the list weeks before the wedding and i would ask someone to help out with those moments you don't look for then you get to shots when you will be focused on a bride and groom good luck and congrats on your first wedding’
Daisy: Thanks SOOO much for the response everyone! Very helpful :)
Kristen: there is a list on google or yahoo or a search engine and it has a list if the 50 must have pictures at your wedding its a list gir brides to use but i think it would hel
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]]>QOTD from Lisa: "Which lenses would you recommend to have on hand always for weddings?"
Brian: 24 -70 2.8, 70-200 2.8, 85 1.4
Christina: 50mm, wide angle, and zoom! :)
Jfs Photoguy: depends on your camera actually..(what size crop sensor or full frame)
Deanna: love my 24-70 and 70-200!
Michelle: my go to lens is the 70-200 2.8, I have others but this one is the most versatile.
Bobbi: Yep- what Brian said. Add the 50 1.2, an the 100L 2.8 macro
Jfs Photoguy: if she is Nikon, L glass wont do her any good :)
Kayleigh: I love my 70-135mm for weddings! I also use my 150-300mm I think it is.. :)
Lavish Lens: I love my 70-
Michael: I think Brian nailed it.
Andrea: Brian has that dead on. Exactly what I was gonna say
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]]>QOTD from Dena: "Photogs: Where do you start when shooting a wedding? Details? Getting ready? Or do you just adjust as things flow?"
Heather: http://www.shutterfly.com/wedding/to-do-list-photography-checklist.pdf
I tweaked this for my clients but its nice to have a list to stay somewhat organized =)
Morgan: Getting ready, then as I have time I get details. Often I leave my second shooter with the bride while I get details then send her to the groom when I get back! Hope that helps!
Cate: Getting ready, details, boys, first look, girls, bridal party, ceremony, details again, reception.
BP4U: I normally will start off the day by shooting the venue shots (if we start off at the ceremony venue first) and then move right into detail shots of the shoes, dress, jewelry. From there I'll do getting ready shots, and groom getting ready/detail shots, the bride and bridesmaids, groom/groomsmen, ceremony detail, ceremony, family formals, bride&groom, full bridal party, reception details & reception (depending on the timeline of the day)
Kit: Adjust as you go, but generally start with details at house, then gettin ready. Otherwise she would be wearin the things u wanted to photograph to start with!
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]]>QOTD from Emma: "Q for anyone who uses the Facebook Pages App:
I've noticed with one of the recent updates there's now some extra information showed under posts and pictures that only shows up on my phone. It lists the number of people that post reached on the left and "View Insights >" on the right. When View insights is pushed a break down of the reach is shown, followed by the number of people engaged and finally the number of people talking about the post. In the people engaged tab, the bottom line lists how many people gave negative feedback (if any). What does this mean? In what way are people showing/clicking that creates this tally? Are they hiding the post? What worries me about this is now that Facebook is now "promoting" posts for a fee. Do these numbers factor into how many people are seeing posts?
Any insight would be appreciated, thank you!"
Tia: Love this Question! Commenting simply to follow :
Libby: I saw that too but each photo has 1 negative feedback so I think it's a bug..
Jamie: Negative feedback means someone hid you or unliked you, I think.http://www.socialmediabreakfastmaine.com/negative-feedback-on-facebook-pages/
Stephanie: Good question, can't wait to hear what others have to say because I would like to know as well!
Lanie: Same here
Emma: @jamie, that's what i thought as well. wish there was a way to track who/why the post is being hidden...if that's what's happening. and if it has a negative effect on how my posts are distributed by Facebook.
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]]>QOTD from Becky: " I would like to know if people save in jpeg or tiff and if they can see a difference in quality?"
Selena: Hey there, I ALWAYS shoot RAW+JPEG. JPEG files constantly lose small amounts of detail everytime they are opened, edited, moved from one location to the next, etc. You won't be able to see the difference right away but over time, that JPEG file will be bad. I always save in TIFF files and give my clients TIFF's as well. You don't want to give them JPEG files to be used on Facebook and have them look at the photos years later to see that they're not as high quailty as they once were. (Granted for this case I'm refering to the online image, not their hard copies.) TIFF's can be opened and re-used time and time again and will always stay in top quality; never loosing details or information. TIFF's are the way to go my friend! :)
Selena: I also really only ever export in JPEG format when sending proofs out to clients via email. ;)
Becky: How do your clients view the Tiff files?
Morgan: Jpeg. There is no quality difference. Just google myths about jpeg
Or....http://graphicssoft.about.com/od/digitalphotography/a/raworjpeg.htm Read #4
Yohan: Selena... Really? You think that jpeg loose quality if you move it around too often or it will deteriorate over time??? Well, first time I heard that and don't think it's valid info. If you can prove that, please post the link below.
Tiff is will be always better then jpegs end of story because there's less compression. You have more deph to play. If you have disk space go with TIFF.
Charity: I use TIFF while editing and then convert to JPEG when done.
Jfs Photoguy: A jpeg is what is called a lossy file structure...everytime that you open it and close it, send it to someone, and they send it back, or you edit it, close it, reopen it, close...etc...over time that Jpeg image will loose "information" within its file structure. A TIFF image is a less lossy file (not as bad as jpeg) BUT will over time lose information as well (just not as much, and not as fast)
Jfs Photoguy: If the data is stored as a JPEG file, it goes through the Bayer interpolation, is modified by in camera set parameters such as white balance, saturation, sharpness, contrast etc, is subject to JPEG compression and then stored. The advantage of saving JPEG data is that the file size is smaller and the file can be directly read by many programs or even sent directly to a printer. The disadvantage is that there is a quality loss, the amount of loss depending on how much compression is used. The more compression, the smaller the file but the lower the image quality. Lightly compressed JPEG files can save a significant amount of space and lose very little quality. For more on JPEG compression seehttp://www.photo.net/learn/jpeg/index.html
Belinda: There has always been arguments about jpeg losing quality etc etc. Same as the Nikon vs Canon argument. When shooting i use raw. When exporting/saving images i save in jpeg and my clients receive jpeg
Cortney: I always save my files as JPEG, but keep the RAW files handy, just because most of my clients won't know what a TIFF file is and I don't want them to have trouble opening/viewing the file. (I guarantee my photos for life, so if the quality is bad down the road, they can contact me and I will email them a new one if they have paid for a CD of images). I do agree, however, that a TIFF file is MUCH better as far as quality of photo over time goes.
Ashley: I save in both. Tiffs are better for printing
Christy: Jpeg. 30x40 prints look fine. No loss of info noticeable unless you open and resave hundreds of times. Tiff only if going very large and fine detail is very critical, such as commercial and advertising work.
Andrea: Hmmmm I'm reading all the comments and I did NOT have a good experience with printing a JPEG vs TIFF canvas
The jpeg's color was better and the TIFF seemed dingy and loss in vibrance? Am I missing something here?
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]]>QOTD from Amy: "How can I save a picture file that has been photoshop edited as a jpeg instead of Photoshop jpeg? Mpix won't recognize files that aren't jpegs and I have an entire library saved that way and I need it changed. Is this possible AFTER THE FACT?"
Jfs Photoguy: yea, re open the image in photoshop and then click SAVE AS...jpeg and add a (underscore) _ 1 in the title so that when it saves it saves the second Jpeg with the #1 in it so you dont get confused
Melanie: Just open the image and click 'Save as' in the 'File' menu. Click the drop-down menu and select JPG. then click save. If it says it has to be saved as a copy, you might be in 16bit mode or have layers in there. You need to make sure the image is 'flattened' and that you're in 8Bit mode.
Jfs Photoguy: and if what you are referring to as "Photoshop Jpeg" there is no such thing, I think you are getting confused with PSD files..and in that case there wont be any photo-lab that will recognize that type of file as it is a proprietary file of adobe...
Wilman: @wilmanmiguel
Sasha: what are you shooting in? RAW? Jpeg? Your question would be better answered if we knew what you were editing as. If its raw then you have to save as a jpeg after editing or it will auto save as a PSD (photoshop document). The ONLY way to view a psd is in photoshop. If your editing in jpeg already, it should save as a jpeg unless you have multiple layers open. Then you have to merge them (highlight them all and press control + E, or you can flatten the image). Either way, when saving, always check the format. You can save in about any format. Make sure your picking regular jpeg too and not the old version (Jpeg 2000)
Kerry: Also if you are shooting in RAW, once you 'save as' in JPEG your original RAW files are kept in tact. This is great should you wish to do different edits/crops down the line.
Jfs Photoguy: sasha, you can view a PSD file within lightroom (if you have it) and you can also view it within a program called Ifran View
Jfs Photoguy: Jpeg 2000 isnt the old version, its actually the new version, but most software and labe only will recognize the standard Jpg format
Amy: So... Does it resave then and replace the .psd version I accidentally saved it as, or do I need to just maybe separate the newly saved jpegs in a different folder?
Jfs Photoguy: Amy Roth...check your inbox and the others inbox...sent you a msg
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]]>QOTD from Jenn & Andrea: "I do have a question. I just got CS6 and I don't know where to begin.... Any guides you recommend? Any tutorials or photographers who break it down cause its a complicated thing for me"
Valerie: Scott Kelby's book...
Melanie: Kelby's book
Brian: I think with any program that is as massive and powerful like Adobe CS6, you need to step back and don't look at everything it can do, but define simple tasks that you want to accomplish and then work on that. Such as color correction or spot removal. Each little tasks can be googled and there are many tutorials on each of the topics. Once you get proficient in each thing, then you can approach an image and apply each technique one by one to get your final results. Just remember, that if you look at something so massive, its easy to get overwhelmed, but smaller chunks are easily managable.
Golden Photography: Catching editing classes on creativelive.com is always great. Heck, catching any class on there is great.
Andrea: Excellent. Thanks everyone. Def going to search all those options!
Brian I have to say my One issue is I love learning fast and since it's such a massive program I have to breathe and step back a bit....
Kendra: Amanda at Everyday Elements is great to learn basic editing and clean edits
Jennifer: Coffee Shop Blog is amazing :)
Jfs Photography: Lynda is also a very good resource and so is adorama TV
Mary: Seconding Scott Kelby's book
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]]>QOTD from Ally: "Which Program is the Best to Edit in??"
Allison: Good Question
Tara: I use LR4 and CS5.
Brytknee: whatever you feel comfortable and confident with. i prefer photoshop (cs5 or higher)
Amy: What is the difference between the 2?
Brian: Depends on what you want to do. Photoshop can pretty much do everything that Lightroom can do as far as editing. But not vice versa. But Lightroom's controls and interface is designed for photographers. Look to see if adobe still has a trial version of creative cloud. You can try both.
Brian: I use Lightroom to correct things like exposure, white balance, contrast, black levels, saturation, etc. I also use it to organize my photos in collections. I use photoshop for major edits to the image. Removing stray hairs or an unwanted wrinkle. Putting in a new background, compositing multiple images, etc.
Rob: I'm a total cheapskate & use GIMP, does a great deal considering it's freeware.
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]]>QOTD from Nicole: " I use only Lightroom...and during and after shoots my clients say "you'll photoshop that out right?" When I tell them I don't use Photoshop they give me a strange look...My question is this....Does anyone else out there strictly use only LR? Or am I the only one, lol"
Katie: I use Lightroom for batch editing and then do my fine tuning in Photoshop. :)
Tina: nope I mostly use lightroom, I rarley pull anything into photoshop. Actually alot of photographers Example (zach and jody gray) use mostly lightroom! Its a fantastic tool!
Mandy: 100% Lightroom
Brytknee: i dont really like lightroom. but ive been working with photoshop for 10 years for various editing.. aha
Renae: A few of my friends only use Lightroom. Depends how much post work you like/need to do I spose. I'm a newborn tog so I kinda need the extra features that photoshop offers that Lightroom does for my heavy editing that I do.
Renae: 'That Lightroom doesn't' I mean oops
Ashley: I have used lightroom for about 9 months now but as my photography get better I see my clients wanting more and me expecting more. My ps6 should be arriving today. I want to have a nice logo, and templates, create cards and calendars and I just can seem to do that in Lightroom. So I finally broke down and got photoshop. But how long will that take to learn? A little nervous. Best of luck!
Kelli: Batch editing in LR, PS for other smaller things.
Stephanie: You can still get rid of some blemishes and stuff in LR, just let them know that you can take care of it. :)
Dominique: That's just a phrase people use because they think it's that simple. But if something is a distraction in the image, it's always better to take care of it in front of the camera then in post.
Eric: Same here,100% lightroom.
Brandon: People call EVERYTHING Photoshop, just because it's what they heard does "that kind of stuff" so it's easier to just say "Don't worry about it"
Bridget: I use both, but only use Photoshop for things like compositing or making major changes. There's nothing wrong with only using LR, but you might want to make it clear in your marketing exactly what the extent of touch up you will do on a photo. A lot of people don't want so many alterations done that it actually changes the way a person looks, just make sure the clients you attract are the ones who share your philosophy!
Krystle: i use lightroom for editing also only use photoshop to create poster for advertising and logos that i bring up in lightroom as a watermark ect
Jodie: All Lightroom here. Would LOVE to learn Photoshop tho. I do feel very limited in what I can do with LR. That being said, LR is an EXCELLENT tool for creating beautiful photos.
Carlos: Don't worry. I use Aperture from Apple and the question is the same.
Andrea: LR for over half a year now and just starting to TRY & learn photoshop cs6
But no one has ever complained out my LR edits :)
Dawn: i found a website that let's you download alot of editing programs with no virus i like it alot more i have photoshop and lightroom and like this free editing programs more and my clients love them more then when i use photoshop or lightroom .... if you would like the website for them place msg me athttps://www.facebook.com/pages/Hollywood-Styles-Designs/274546109265336?ref=hl
Chrystal: I only use Lightroom love it I had photo shop didn't understand it so I cancelled it
Adrienne: Only LR. For now.
Becky: only LR
Jenn: I use gimp and let my clients know I do classic photography. That I don't do a lot of post editing. I haven't had anyone walk away because I don't use photoshop
Nicole: Only LR I get a little ADD with PS but I do use it to crop things out...
Rachel: I'm a LR only kind of gal ;) My fiance uses both.
Lindsay: I have never experiemented with LR. Can someone explain batch editing to me. I've heard much about it, but never worked with it.
Jessica: i really dont care for phogoshop. i also use only LR, ppl always say that to me to.lol. i dont use becuz i want to push myself to get the photo right without editing. i usually give photos with lil to no edit. i dont want to be behing the computer tons of hours
Gannon: I strictly use Adobe camera Raw combined with Bridge.
Holly: Don't tell them you don't use photoshop! Smile and nod! :)
Christina: I use Lightroom pretty much the only time but if I need to correct something major I will edit it in photoshop.
Nicole: Thank you everyone!!! Glad to know I am not the only one :) I just like getting it right in camera so I am not sitting doing post forever...having 4 kids, I kind of want to spend time with them :) but it seems with photographers over here, all I hear is "you don't use Photoshop?" lol You all rock! Thanks BP4U!!!! :)
Erin: I use strictly LR 95% of the time. I started out using LR and it has really helped me to make sure I am getting it right with the camera and not in post processing. But.. I don't do composites so that helps! ;)
Belinda: I use LR 99% of the time. Only ever use PS for the major things i can't fix properly in LR
Anna: Until now, I have only used iPhoto... but today is a happy day, Lightroom arrived in the post, and it will be all I use, once I've worked out how to use it!
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]]>QOTD from Amy: " I think that I am either having some trouble or getting confused using my layers and masking in pse 10. I don't think I'm doing it correctly. Some of my elements (ie Cayden Lane set, and Follow your Art set) aren't working right and I'm wondering what I'm doing wrong. Anyone direct me where or how to do these correctly!?"
Beth: When masking be sure to click on the white/black box in the action. Then use the opposite color(with brush tool) to mask what you want/don't want.
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]]>QOTD from Sarah: "Hi there! I've been a learning photographer for about a year now doing work in events, sports, portraiture, macro, families and glamour- but what I'd really like to do is wildlife photography. I was wondering how I'd go about getting involved professionally, and if perhaps there was any wildlife photographers that could share tips on getting into the field, and what they equipment they use etc."
Brian: I'm not in the field, only experience is going to zoos... But, my experience is that you're going to want to get telephoto lenses, the longer the better, and a good tripod.
Sarah: Thanks Brian! I've done a few zoo shoots using an 85mm macro or a 55 - 300mm lens, which has worked well, but I'm definitely wanting to get something a bit better when I can afford to. What kind of lens do you reccommend? I have a Nikon D5100.
Jfs Photoguy: <<is a wildlife photog...one thing I will tell you right now, is that you should save up and upgrade your camera...second, I use a 80-400mm and even with THAT reach, im still not close unuff...third, get practice shooting at a zoo and watching the behavior of the animals that are native to your area (deer, bear, small animalas, birds) forth, PRACTICE and BE patient!
Andrea: I love wildlife too! And I would rent a lens for a weekend and go to the zoo. A 300 mm or 400 mm is great. Sharp images and gives you some great practice. Must have tripod!
If you do go to the zoo early morning is best to shoot them because they are up and moving...
Also not sure where you live but Calumet (for example) where I buy my equipment they do wildlife tours (2-4 weeks long in Alaska) just an example. That does require some $$ though
But just an idea ;)
Jfs Photoguy: dont need a tripod...some zoos wont allow them...best to learn freehand holding...and where im at....in the middle of Pennsylvania where there is the largest free roaming wild elk herd...you dont have time to set up a tripod...because you will be on the move...and if your shooting in a blind (at lets say ducks that are slittish) no room for tripod there either...
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]]>QOTD from Ashley: "I have a question! I am getting ready to buy the nikon D5100 and I was wondering if anyone could help me decide on a lens! Would it be better for me to buy the Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-300mm All-in-One Zoom Lens for $999 or save some money and just buy the Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 85mm f/1.8G Telephoto Lens for $499 I am looking for a lens mainly for portraits/head-shots & etc! And those were the two lenses recommended to me so which one is better or do I need to buy both? Does anyone have any suggestions on which lens will work best for me?"
Erika: 24-70 2.8
Jason: f1.8 is pretty tight for portraiture.
Silver: If you do portraits I recommend a prime lens at 1.8 or smaller
Silver: All lenses shoot the same at a larger apature... If 1.8 was tight she could always adjust. But if your lens only goes 5.6 you are stuck with that... And it's much harder to get bokeh at something like 5.6
Alicia: Prime lens for portraits! I'd start with the 1.8
Tyann: The prime for portraiture because of the f/1.8.
Andrea: My next lens is the 85mm
I've rented it a few times and it's wonderful. You can always play with the aperture, so I'd go with that especially if it's going to be mainly portraits. Like headshots even chest up or waist up... Great lens
Bridget: Have you considered the 50mm 1.8G? Probably better for a cropped sensor and vastly cheaper, but it's a great lens. I think it is great for portraits and will be more versatile as an only lens.
Haley: i'd get the 85
Patty: An 85 on a crop sensor is going to act like a 127mm lens. If she wants the 85mm look for the d5100 she would be better off getting a 50mm which will give her a 75mm look on the crop sensor.
Chris: Get a 50 mm for a crop camera
Morgan: 85mm is a great lens!! But the 50mm is excellent too!
Matt: The 85mm 1.8 is awesome but remember on your cropped 5100 its really like a 127mm lens (not in look but in distance to subject to fill the sensor). I love the 85 on my D800 but maybe you should get a 50mm or even the amazing dirt cheap 35mm 1.8 for a prime to start with and then get a mid level zoom. You'll want both eventually but 85mm on a DX means you're either just doing a headshot or your standing quite a ways back from you subject if you're wanting torso or more. You'll be in the next room if you want a full body shot. I'd recommend that you get the 50mm (or 35mm) 1.8 and then the maybe something like the Tamron 28-75mm 2.8 or something similar. All in one zooms are good as long as you have good light. You might want a 2.8 zoom if you want to be ready for more situations and less light. I bought the 35mm 1.8 as my first prime and I love it still on my D7000. I think on the DX, they are better portrait lenses than the 85mm.
Shannon: Like Matt said, I loved my 35 & 50 on my dx senored camera & got the tamron 17-50 f/2.8 for a good price.
Kelli: 85!
Jennifer; 85mm 1.8 you will love it!!!!
Jfs Photoguy: 85mm is too big on a 5100 (127mm) you are better off with a 50mm (75mm) or a 35mm (52.5mm)..the 85 would be good for sideline sports (not many) but on a 5100 I wouldnt (I have the D7000 and they both have the same sensor 16.2meg) 50mm would be the better choice, or even the 60mm macro, which will double as a great portrait as well...
Kimberly: I love my 50mm 1.4...not expensive and great for portraits
Sasha: I love my 50 mm 1.8. I bet the apature on the 300 mm zoomed in like that is really high! It would probably never be ideal for any indoor pics....and the 85 mm would be my choice between the 2, but you would have to really stand far away from your subjects in order to get a good composition. I would recommend a 50 or a 35 prime. I LOVE prime so much more than zoom!
Jen: I have the d5100 and can't imagine using the 85mm because you have to stand ridiculously far away for your subject. The 50mm would be a much better choice. And I would never get that huge zoom lens for portrait photography unless you are doing a lot of weddings, and even then I would recommend something else first. Good luck!
Ashley: Thanks to everyone for your advice :D I appreciate all the help!
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