Lately, I’ve been getting asked a lot of questions on how I take my blog photos. I have come along way since the days of my old point and shoot camera and it’s been a fun learning experience for me.
Today, I wanted to share some easy photography tips that have made a difference for me and will help take your blog photos to the next level.
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What I Used to Step Up My Camera Game
First things first. You need a good camera and when I say good camera I mean a DSLR camera. I used to use a point and shoot camera (which was technically a bridge camera) and it did the job, but I had to take the leap and upgrade to a Digital SLR.
I currently use the Canon EOS Rebel T5, but I would recommend starting out with the Canon T5i which has a flip out screen that makes shooting videos easier. And guess what y’all, I’ve been using my kit lens even though professional photographers don’t recommend it. Works for me!
I did purchase a Canon 50mm f/1.8 Lens which I would highly suggest if you want to take close up pictures with that buttery, blurred background.
Let me just say that all point and shoot cameras aren’t bad. I used one from Target for about $200 that worked great for product pictures for my Etsy shop years ago.
See the detail in this picture? Not bad for a point and shoot camera!
Taken with my Nikon Coolpix L310. Also called a bridge camera because it has an adjustable zoom lens unlike regular point and shoot cameras.
My Canon T5 taken with the Nikon Coolpix camera.
You can use any brand or type of camera you like, but if you really want to improve your blog’s photos, you really need to invest in a DSLR camera.
Disclaimer: Now, I am no LaShawn W. or Lala Sams and I am still growing by the day. I have learned a thing or two about photography and it has helped boost my blog’s overall look and feel.
Tips for Taking Great Pictures for Your Blog
Natural Lighting – Natural lighting is the key to beautiful, bright, pictures. In order to get the best natural light you want to have a table, chair, or desk next to a window.
White Walls – Your pictures will come out bright and crisp if you take them against a white wall. Don’t have a white wall you can paint? Then use a bathroom or bedroom door.
A Daylight Light Bulb – You can find this at your hardware store. It’s best for taking pictures at night or in a dark places in your house. A natural light light bulb gives the appearance of daylight when actually it’s not. No need to purchase expensive Box Lighting or Ring Lights…well, at least for now.
Did you find this information helpful? Got any more questions about photography or blogging? Feel free to leave them in the comments below!
I love the idea of getting a day light bulb. There are times I need a boost. I mainly shoot in daylight, as it's the best for photography. Knowing your settings and learning white balance are key for shooting white backgrounds too. Photography is so much fun! Congrats on moving up to a Canon T5
Thanks! I've had it for a while now and I thought I share how it made a difference for me.
I keep hearing about those daylight bulbs, I need to get me one. Unfortunately I don't have any white walls in my house but I have learned poster board is my friend. Thanks for the tips!
You're welcome. Yes! Poster board can be your bestie!
Thanks for sharing these tips. I will have to purchase a daylight bulb. The lighting in my house isn't very good.
You should definitely purchase one then.
Thanks again Stacie! I know we talked about this previously, I just need to remember to do it! I've got to remember the white walls!
I actually painted my daughter's old bedroom white and it works wonders!
I recently upgraded my camera for more vids and images, it has been fun and I am looking forward to doing more, great tips.
There's so much to do and learn, isn't there!
So my dad is a photographer and my mom has taken up the hobby also. My dad is Canon man and my mom loves her Nikon. I'm not sure what models they have, but both of the photos turn out great. I agree using a better camera for a blog definitely upgrades it's appearance!
Oh, you're probably a pro then. I could learn from you for sure!
I'm taking my photo game seriously too. How do you keep shadows from occurring against white walls?
Jay of relaxedthairapy.com
I admit, I don't always pay attention to my shadows. I know reflectors can help with that though.
This is great! I have a canon t3i that I use mostly for videos. I'm still learning how to take great pics with it.
I still have yet to master the video, but when I do, it's on!
Thank you so much for sharing! I have been eyeing the Canon T5 for a while now. Beautiful photos.
Thank you sis!
These are awesome tips! I didn't know daylight light bulbs existed but I definitely need to invest in some for shooting flat lays and what not. Thanks for sharing.
All the Best,
Allison | LiveLifeWellBlog.com
Go get yourself one girlfriend!
Great tips, I don't have a lot of natural light in my home. This A Daylight Light Bulb is my answer. I will pick one up this weekend.
MimiCuteLips
mimicutelips.com
Glad you found it useful! 🙂
Very good tips. Glad you got a rebel. I have one too. I have a slight obsession with cameras. Trying to remedy that a bit. Daylight Bulb is a really good tip too.
I do natural light photography and these are good suggestions. Photography can really shape a blog for the visual audience!
Great tips stacie. I kid you not. I do not own a camera all I use for all my photos is my ipad mini and they come out great! LOL I use natural day light and love it!
Wow your pics are awesome and you use an ipad?
Whaaaat? You pics are always really bright! My ipad mini comes out grainy.
Very helpful Stacie! I use to use my Nikon point and shoot, but wanted a camera that showed more detail and take better action shots, so I upgraded. Best decision. I'm still learning how to work my camera, and getting it off of auto mode. #ProductReviewParty
I know what you mean. I learned one manual setting and need to probably take a class.
Great tips and your pics are always on point. I still have a Nikon Coolpix and use the box light when video taping or taking night photos.
Thank you lady!
Thank you for the tips. I just got a new Nikon Coolpix but I don't think it's a DLSR. I'm sad I didn't see this post sooner. Well hopefully once we learn how to use it, we can take pics as nice as yours. I still struggle with daylight pics, since I always seem to still cast shadows on my items. Ugh! I'm definitely not a good photographer. 😛 #ProductReviewParty
Aw, well hopefully the Nikon works for you. I used mine for a year and it really took nice pictures. You'll get it. Don't worry though, we all start somewhere!
Daylight bulbs are my trick too! I replaced all of our bulbs with them and realized how awesome they are for photos. I bought an umbrella light last year and I use it more so as a regular lamp than anything, haha. Poster boards and an external flash are also my jam.