Digital Photography Technology

Industrial photography probably has the greatest challenge when it comes to the diversity of objects to photograph. Photographs can be from a small electronic part to an oil drilling platform out in the ocean. Miniature in size to huge and everything in between. Every photo shoot presents its own unique challenge.

Industrial photography can be done in a comfortable studio or out in the elements, with photographs being taken, of everything imaginable, under all types of conditions. Some jobs can be enjoyable and others making him wish he was not a photographer.

Regardless, the pay is good, you get to meet people, and travel. While many photographers work somewhat of a fixed schedule, those in industrial photography must be ready at times to go at a moments notice.

The photographer must possess a business attitude at all times, and as well as all the technical skills that has made him qualified for the job. He must be able to communicate well, as many times you will be working with people who are having their pictures taken and can be difficult to get along with.

When you have been accepted by the client to do a job, there must be a considerable amount of planning done, depending upon what is to be photographed. A trip to the site ahead of time, if possible, would be extremely advantageous.

Have the client furnish you with as much information as possible. The names of the people you will be working with, make sure everyone knows you are coming, and what type of photographs do they want. There are a host of questions to ask which will all be learned by experience.

Your fees must also be discussed. Do not wait until you present them with the prints and the fee to find out they are on a very low budget.

Always expect the unexpected. If you need lighting, make sure they have electricity available and the required voltage. A voltage regulator may be required it the voltage fluctuates. If you are to be shooting outside, expect it to rain even if it doesn’t. Be prepared for anything to happen, your job is to take the picture.

Check about all the safety rules that are involved. Many of the worker might not realize or be informed that you are taking pictures. Do not work where it is not safe. Wear any kind of protective clothing and shoes if required. Pay attention to all of your surrounding, as they are unfamiliar to you and can present many surprises.

Taking pictures from the air can present many unique problems, but can also be very rewarding. The first is the type of air craft that is to be used. Fixed wing aircraft are the most economical, but have many limitations. A constant speed has to be maintained, plus altitude, which in most areas is regulated. The wing area limits viewing, and the inability to hold a position to get the good shot. Low cost is the only good reason for using a fixed wing airplane.

Helicopters, although expensive, are the most versatile. The pilot will give you what ever position you want, providing it is legal. Weather is always a constant consideration, but vibration from the plane is always present. Depth of field is normally not a problem, so shoot wide open at the highest shutter speed. Cameras are usually 35mm, digital, or medium format. Anything larger gets a little unwieldy in the air, but is possible. Mounts with gyro stabilizers have been used, but are rather awkward.

The results can be very gratifying, as photographs from the air can be very dramatic, and show a completely different perspective of an operation than from the ground.

The photographer may at times be asked to take portraits of an executive or a group of executives. There time is valuable, so these photos should be taken as quickly as possible. Get a good rapport with them if possible, as everything will go more smoothly. If taking pictures of a group, and the CEO is included, make sure he or she stands out in the picture, as well as any other top ranking person. These shots can be taken from a variety of locations, including the board room to some remote location. Taking shots of those in the labor force are a little different, as they probably are not as concerned about time.

When you are photographing, always dress equally as good, or better that the person you are taking the picture of. This gives a good impression of your self and can never do any harm.

While many of your jobs for clients will be away, doing jobs in the studio will be somewhat enjoyable. All your equipment will be available, and you can work at your own pace. You will still need the experience and imagination, as every job you do will be different.

The equipment that you need will depend upon the type of work you do. If you do studio work only, a studio 4×5 view camera with several lenses, 35mm or digital with a wide array of lenses, and a medium format camera. A variety of studio lighting equipment is needed, along with tripods, exposure meters, and backdrops.

For out door work, cameras and tripods will be basically the same, but the lighting must be more rugged and some battery operated where electric in not available.

When traveling, some good sturdy carry and shipping cases designed for camera equipment will be needed. If you are flying, weight must be taken into consideration.

Taking all you equipment through customs into a foreign could be a nightmare if you do not check ahead on their regulations. In some cases, it would be better to rent some equipment and avoid all the hassle.

It would be impossible to write about every facet of industrial photography. To get experience, get a job working for a professional photographer. Start small. Do not take on a job that is too big and ruin your reputation. If you have the chance for a big job, find another photographer to work with you. You wont make as much, but the experience will be invaluable.