Subscribe
RSS
Archive
January February March April May June July (1) August (1) September (1) October November December
January February (1) March April May June July August (2) September (1) October November (1) December
January (1) February (1) March April May June July (1) August September October November (4) December
January February (1) March (1) April (3) May June July August September October November (1) December
January February March April May June July August September October November December
January February March April May June July August September October November December
January February March April May June July August September October November December

Welcome to

THE BLOG

 

 

Give me the RAW files …

August 30, 2018  •  Leave a Comment

Why Your Photographer Won’t Hand Over RAW Files

 

Almost every photographer has been asked for RAW files by their customers at one point or another. For some, it can be hard to understand why their photographer has refused to part ways with their RAW files but know that your photographer is not trying to be difficult. They have several good reasons why they don’t just hand over all the photos that were taken during your shoot.

raw files, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography, rescue dog, Die

When you’re working with a photographer during a shoot, you’ll notice that they’re constantly snapping away. This is because not all of the images come out perfectly. Sometimes a specific pose or scenario needs to be shot multiple times just to get one good shot. A professional photographer spends a lot of time sorting through all of the images that were taken during a shoot to select the best shots.

raw files, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography, rescue dog, Die

Once the best photos have been chosen, they are brought to life through post process editing with professional editing software. This stage which takes a lot of time and results in the beautiful end product that is handed over to you. If your photographer had to give you the RAW files you wouldn’t be seeing the end result.

raw files, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography

You’d also be surprised at how many people want the RAW files in order to alter the photos themselves. If that individual then chose to share those photos after making their own adjustments, the integrity of your photographer’s work is put at risk.

Something else to keep in mind is that RAW files are huge and you need a lot of memory to store them. You might also find that you don’t have the proper software available at home to view this type of file, so again you would be sitting with megabytes of files that you can’t do anything with.

raw files, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography, dog agility, agile dogs, Royal Easter Show, Dog show, Royal Dog Show

When you hire a professional photographer you’re putting your trust in their abilities. You need to trust that the photos they hand over to you are a result of their hard work, experience and eye for the perfect shot.

The post Give me the RAW files … appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.


How to Take a KIller Selfie

August 24, 2018  •  Leave a Comment

Tips for Taking a Killer Selfie

Here are some simple tips that anyone can apply.

Selfies are so much fun and you probably have several stored on your smartphone. How many times have you had to take a dozen different shots just to get one killer selfie that you’re happy with? Below are some easy tips that you can try the next time a selfie moment strikes.

  • Double check how you look. Before shooting your next selfie, give yourself a quick once-over to check your makeup or for any bits of hair that might be sticking up. Killer selfie, Winter photos, Johnnie Dowling Photography, John Dowling Photography
  • Check your lighting. Any good photo needs great lighting so pose in a place that is well lit or has lots of natural light. killer selfie, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names, Sydney Pet Photos
  • What’s in the background? We have all seen selfies where the background was filled with dirty laundry or had another person in it. Make sure that your background is flattering. killer selfie, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names, Sydney Pet Photos
  • Play with angles. Not everyone looks the same at different angles. Play around with what works best for you and use that going forward. Try taking photos from a left or right angle and from above. Some say that holding the camera just above your eye line is the perfect angle. You can also try angling your shoulders differently for a more flattering effect. killer selfie, Sydney wedding photographer, Johnnie Dowling
  • Use your neck. To avoid any double chins, extend your neck and chin forward slightly to accentuate your neck and jawline. killer selfie
  • It’s ok to edit. Once you’re happy with the shot it’s ok to crop it slightly or even add a filter or effect for a more unique selfie. If the background is too distracting, you can even crop it out completely. Adopting a dog, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names
  • Have fun with it. While there is a place for your more posed selfies, don’t be afraid to get a little silly, laugh and have fun. If you happen to be doing something interesting such as trying a new smoothie or putting on your snorkelling gear, take a quick shot. killer selfie

The post How to Take a KIller Selfie appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.


Why Your Photos Should Be Printed By a Pro

February 13, 2018  •  Leave a Comment

Why Your Photos Should Be Printed By a Pro

Professional printing makes a world of difference.

When researching photographers and their pricing, you might notice that some packages include digital photo files, or they may give you that option as an add-on to your package. This allows you to archive the images on your computer or share them on social media. But if you are planning to rush to the photo lab around the corner to have those photos printed, you may want to give it a second thought and arrange to have them printed by a pro.

Family photo session, printed by a pro

Yes, you have just paid a professional photographer to take your photos and you want to save some money but by not getting a professional to print your photos, you won’t be getting the full effect of the time and effort that went into those images.

 

printed by a pro So why should you get a professional to print your photos?

There is a reason that your photographer spends hours editing your photos. They aim to perfect the colours and sharpness of the images so that it is a work of art and not just another photo. They will also often have their monitors calibrated with the professional printing company that they use. Your local photo lab is not a professional photo lab and the person who will print your photos most likely will not have a background in photography or a trained eye, and they have not been trained in colour theory.

printed by a pro

Your photographer has access to a professional lab and has built a strong working relationship with them. These professional printers use professional grade paper, inks and machines that you won’t find at a regular store, which is why they cost a little extra. Trained technicians also monitor the printing process to ensure that you receive the very best quality of images. By investing a little extra in your prints with your photographer, you ensure that they last longer because better materials were used.

printed by a pro, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography

 

There is, of course, a place for your 1 hour-print labs but if you’re looking to print photos for the walls in your home then having your photos professionally printed is well worth the investment.

The post Why Your Photos Should Be Printed By a Pro appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.


Photography Prices

September 07, 2017  •  Leave a Comment

What’s Behind Those Photography Prices

Photography prices may seem exorbitant at times but read on and see what you’re paying for when you hire a professional photographer.

When you start shopping around for a professional photographer the photography prices can sometimes seem quite daunting. What very few consumers realise though is that there is a lot more to photographing your event than just clicking a button at the right time.

So what are you paying for when hiring a professional photographer?

Time is money. 

Just like any other professional, a photographer needs to put in the hours to get the job done. This includes the consultation, travelling to and from the location, shooting the photos, editing and processing the orders. You’d be surprised at how long it takes to get the end result that is finally delivered to you. Once they shoot the photos, it’s not as simple as downloading the images and delivering them to you. They have to process the files, convert it to the correct file type as well as make sizing and colour adjustments to make each image pop.  If your photographer is also creating a book or album for you, they need to spend time designing it too.

Photography prices

 

Equipment is expensive.

Even though this is a very small part of why photographers charge the prices they do, it’s important to remember that quality equipment plays an important role in being able to produce the photos that they do. Professional equipment not only allows for the production of high-quality images, it also gives photographers the ability to work in areas with less than favourable lighting conditions or at venues where using a flash is prohibited.

Photography prices

 

They have spent years acquiring a very specific skill.

Photography, like any other profession, requires experience and specific skills. From knowing what lighting and camera settings to use, to knowing how to pose people and help them feel comfortable in front of the camera.  Great photographers don’t rush the editing process either, it takes time to produce the desired result and turn your photo into a work of art that you’ll proudly want to display in your home. 

  Photography prices

 

It’s still a business.

A professional photographer is still running a business, which means they will more than likely have overhead costs such as rental fees for their studio and the upkeep of equipment. Photographers also need to budget for professional association fees, equipment and liability insurance and fees for courses that will allow them to stay ahead by continuously honing their craft.

Photography prices

A professional photographer who is dedicated to their art and willing to go the extra mile for their clients is always well worth the price.   

The post Photography Prices appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.


How to Build a Photo Gallery Wall

August 29, 2017  •  Leave a Comment

How to Build a Beautiful Photo Gallery Wall

Ideas for creating a photo wall in your home.

Even though we store all of our photos digitally, nothing quite beats displaying beautiful photos of your family and friends around your home. A gallery wall can be a great focal point in your home but in order to get the perfect end result, your photo wall will need some planning.

Choosing Your Wall

The wall that you see when you first walk into a room is often the perfect spot for a photo wall if you’re looking to make it the main focus of the room. If you would prefer a more subtle option then look for an area that doesn’t have any décor or space where regular artwork might not work, such as the area next to a stairway or the narrow part of a wall that divides two rooms.

 

 

 

 

 

Choosing a Layout

There are countless photo wall layouts that you can use to build your gallery. Pinterest offer tons of inspiration. The best thing to do once you have your heart set on a specific layout is to cut out the shapes of your frames and use masking tape to create a mock layout on your wall. You might find that you need to switch a few of the frames around or relook at the design completely.

Photo Gallery Wall Photo Gallery Wall Photo Gallery Wall Photo Gallery Wall

Choosing Your Frames & Photos

Most designers would suggest that neutral colours work the best when designing your photo gallery but sometimes adding a pop of colour in-between the frames also looks amazing. You might prefer to choose frames in one colour then opt for different sizes and styles to change things up a bit. Placing an antique frame in-between your more modern frames gives the wall a unique touch. If you decide to use different colours and styles of frames then try printing your photos in black and white. Remember, your photos should always be the focal point.

 

 

Want To See What Your Photos Will Look Like In Your Own Home?


Photo Gallery Wall A photo gallery in your home is a great alternative to traditional décor and wall art so take the time to make it special.

The post How to Build a Photo Gallery Wall appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.


Pet Photo Session

July 27, 2017  •  Leave a Comment

How to prepare for a pet photo session

For many people, pets are furry members of the family. It comes as no surprise that they want to include their pets in their pet photo session. Including your pets in your photo session does require a little extra preparation but it is certainly doable.

Below are a few tips to prepare you for your photo session with your pet. Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography, rescue dog, pet photo session

 

To make this work, you will need to get your pet to sit still and behave. Pets can get very excited when new people are around so let your pet become acquainted with your photographer beforehand. Bring treats and toys that your pet enjoys so that you have something to use to grab their attention if necessary.  Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling, dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, action photography, dog agility, agile dogs,, dogs swimming, swim, swimming, dog swim, Pet photo session

 

Keep a leash or harness ready, just in case. Even though your pet might be well trained, it never hurts to be prepared. You may also want to arrange your poses so you can hold onto your pet securely without it looking like you are hanging on for dear life. Your photographer will help you with this.  Adopt dog, Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names, Pet photo session

If you know that your pet photo session is going to take some time, give your pets the chance to take breaks, walk around and drink water. You won’t be able to force a pet to sit still if they are thirsty or agitated.  Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, Pet photo session

As a pet owner, you probably know how perceptive your animals are to energy and emotions, so it’s important that you are relaxed when you get to your pet photo session. If you really want to keep your pets relaxed too, try and arrange your photo session in a place where your pet will feel most comfortable such as your garden or a park.  Sydney pet photographer, Sydney pet photography, dog photography, dog photographer, John Dowling,dog names, Sydney Pet Photos, Pet photo session

For the best results, try and work with a photographer that has previously worked with animals. This will help make the process of photographing your pets even more enjoyable.

The post Pet Photo Session appeared first on Stunning Sydney Pet Photography by John Dowling Photography.