8 Free Online Tools For Outdoor Photographers
These 8 free-to-use websites will help you take better photographs, quicker. From the planning stage to post-processing, these online tools will help you as an outdoor photographer.
Planning your Photos
Not everyone plans their photoshoots, but it is often very helpful to do so, especially when photographing outdoors. These three tools will help you find the optimal location and timing.
1. Google Maps
It may not come as a surprise, but Google Maps is probably one of the most essential tools for planning a successful photoshoot. Take a look at Streetview, or admire the surrounding nature on the 3D satellite view. Google Maps is the most used (and in my opinion the best) online mapping tool. It’s ideal for finding the optimal photography locations, but if you’re not keen on exploring the map for several hours, maybe the third item on this list is something for you.
Google Maps is free to use and there is no account needed, although a Google account is advised if you want to save locations.
2. Sunsethue
Lighting is one of the most essential things to consider when photographing outdoors. That’s where Sunsethue comes in. Just enter the location you want sunrise or sunset information for, and it is calculated at a glance. Besides the standard information, like the time and direction of the setting sun, this tool has some more handy features. The main selling point of this website is the sunset index, which is calculated based on weather model data. The sunset forecasts can be accessed for up to three days. An amazing sunset can make a photograph so much more interesting. Lastly, Sunsethue also provides timing information for the golden hour and blue hour.
Sunsethue is free to use and accessible without making an account.
3. Locationscout
If you’re having trouble finding the best photo spots in your area, Locationscout might be of interest to you. You just have to search for a location and a list of photo spots will appear. Examples of photos taken at these locations will help you guide in the decision-making process. If you sign up for a Locationscout account, you will also be able to see these spots on a map and use the service inside their mobile app.
Locationscout is free to use, I advise you to make an account to get the most out of this service.
Tools while Photographing
The following tools might be able to help you when you’re out taking photos. From quickly making edits to avoid getting lost, take a look at the following apps.
4. Snapseed
When you just made a photograph and want to make some quick changes to see if the result will be better after postprocessing, you might want to use a photo editing app. A free and very useful one is Snapseed, available for Android and IOS. If you need a free photo-editing website, skip to number 6 on this list. Snapseed is a simplistic, yet very powerful photo-editing app made by Google. Most of the things you would do in professional photo editing software are possible in Snapseed too. This app is especially handy for on-the-go photo editing.
Snapseed is completely free and available on Android and IOS
5. Alltrails
If you’re out in an area you haven’t yet been to, it’s helpful to know where you are, and where you’re going. Especially when exploring nature, Alltrails could help you find the trails not visible on Google Maps. The website has a detailed world map including most hiking trails, even obscure ones. It is perfect for those who want to explore without getting lost, and for those who want to find quiet trails and new potential photo spots.
Alltrails is available for free with an account. A paid plan can be acquired for $3/month, but most features are also available in the free version.
Post-processing and Storage
Most photos have to be post-processed to reach their full potential. Post-processing can be expensive and can have a steep learning curve, but these tools will make it easier and cheaper to post-process your photos.
6. Pixlr
Pixlr is an online web application similar to Adobe Photoshop. It is an impressively powerful tool that can be used to retouch and edit your photos. Pixlr offers two services: Pixlr X is ideal for beginners, while Pixlr E is perfect for photographers with more experience in photo editing. This service is by far the best place for online photo editing. There are many tutorials out there to help you edit your photos.
Most features in Pixlr are free to use, I strongly advise creating a Pixlr account to make sure you’re pictures are saved. The paid plans, which remove ads and add more features start from $0.75/month.
7. Canva
If you need a really simple and straightforward editing tool, Canva might be just for you. Canva is a popular design website, it’s perfect for making collages or posters of your photos. In contrast to Pixlr, the editing tools are more focused on design and textual overlays. Perfect if you want to incorporate your photos in some creative designs. Canva has hundreds of templates to choose from in a wide range of categories.
Canva is free to use with an account, paid plans are available for more features and content (templates, stock imagery, etc).
8. Flickr
The last tool on this list is Flickr. It’s a social media platform for photographers. You can view, like and interact with other photographers and build a following. Besides the social aspects, it’s a perfect place to store your photos. And an ideal place for creating your portfolio with beautiful outdoor photographs. Flickr offers an incredible 1TB of storage, if that isn’t enough, there are upgraded plans available.
Flickr is free with an account, paid plans for more storage and additional feature start from $8.25/month.
I hope this list was helpful, if you have any remarks or other useful tools for outdoor photographers, feel free to leave a comment.
