10 Tools for Every Photographer
As a photographer, you have the talent that makes your work spectacular. However, there are tools that can make it a bit easier to show off your skills. Maybe you’re all about the tech, perhaps you love creating unique sets, or it could be that you love editing tools. Whatever your style, today we share 10 tools you may want to consider to make your work a bit easier.
This tool allows you to get organized. If you are running your own photography business or even just keep busy with photography as a hobby, organization is key to keep track of your schedule, edits, and more. Create a list of all of the equipment you need to bring with you so that you are always prepared. Evernote allows you to take notes anywhere and also easily store web pages and projects. For example, you could save this article for later if you were busy and didn’t have time to read it right now. Evernote also allows you to store voice memos, notes, and pictures so you can keep track of ideas when inspiration hits. There are varying plans ranging from free to $14.99 per month depending how many features you need to keep everything organized.
2. White Balancing Tools
If you are a professional photographer or serious hobbyist, you will likely need more customizable white balance than what the built-in feature that your digital camera can offer. We like Impact’s QuikBalance Collapsible 12" Gray Panel. If you shoot a lot of on-site events, you may want to consider the ExpoDisc 2.0 because of its small size. When you use the ExpoDisc it captures a featureless gray image that replaces a traditional gray card. It is easy to travel with and at $49.95 is a cost-effective option.
3. Photoshop Plug-Ins
For example, the Nik Collection, a set of plug-ins that offer a large range of creative effects and innovative tools for total editing control. The collection offers a variety of presets and is also known for its U Point Control System that makes light work of making adjustments to local areas of an image. The collection is available for a one-time fee of $149.
4. Google Drive
Keep all of your amazing work safe! Storing photos somewhere online is a safe bet because even if your hardware fails your photos will not be lost forever. Google Drive is trusted and easy to use making it a great option for many photographers. There is a cost depending on how much storage you need, but it is a worthy investment for the peace of mind you will get knowing your images are safe.
5. Wunderlist
Wunderlist is a cloud-based task management application. It allows users to manage their tasks from a smartphone, tablet, computer and smartwatch. Use it to schedule your work tasks as well as the rest of your life so you can ensure you are maintaining the right work-life balance.
6. Trello
Trello is a project management tool that can help keep you on track and if you are leading a team, can keep everyone focused on the right projects. You can create projects and tasks within them and team members can mark off when they have completed their portion.
7. GIMP
GIMP stands for GNU Image Manipulation Program. It is a free and open-source graphic editor that can be used for many tasks including painting tools, colour correction, cloning, selection, and enhancement.
8. External Hard Drive
Even if you back-up online you may still want to know that you have another copy of your photos stored off the grid. An external hard drive is a low-cost way to ensure your photos are securely saved offline.
9. Filters
In the age of digital editing, filters don’t always get the attention they deserve. However, they can still be used to adjust color temperatures and to create awesome effects. Polarizing filters will increase color saturation and decrease reflection. You can try out a neutural density filter which will allow you to use longer shutter speeds or wider apertures than otherwise possible with the same lighting conditions. Finally, you may consider a skylight filter to protect your lens from dirt and debris if you are shooting action shots in the elements.
10. Replacement Camera Straps
The neck straps that come with bigger cameras typically aren’t designed for comfort. On longer shoots, they can become painful. To protect yourself and avoid strain, a new strap that distributes the weight differently can be a great solution. For example, BlackRapid straps are designed to be worn from shoulder to hip, distributing weight evenly across the body. They come in a range of designs, depending on how much or what type of support is needed.
Do you use any of these tools? Do you have another favorite tool? Let us know on Twitter, @Photos_Of_Us.
Photos of Us in an application that makes it easier for photographers to share photos with clients. Using uniquely coded cards, share photos with your subject without needing to share contact information. Perfect for school pictures, event photography, and more!
