Joe Baker Photography: Blog

Learning a New Skill

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 21:56:47 GMT

I have decided that I want to learn how to shoot and edit video. I have great gear including my Iphone 11 Pro, a DJI Gimbal, a couple of GoPros and even a Mavic Mini. Now, I have to go out and learn. And that is what today's blog post is about; learning. I feel that a lot of photographers feel that once they are able to "master" their style, that they stop learning. I would like to tell those photographers, to NEVER stop learning! A lot of people when they take one of my classes or mentoring sessions are surprised when I tell them that I probably spend more on tutorials and classes myself than even equipment! For me, I never want to stop learning and I want to always push myself to the limits of my understanding and try something new. I do not want my work to be stagnant or stale. I may not follow all of the trends, but I want to know how those trends are done and will experiment with them. But, I digress. I want to learn how to shoot video and create captivating videos. I have dabbled in it, but I think it's time to go full fledge into it. I am a little scared and even a little apprehensive, but I am at least going to try and learn. What are you trying to learn this year? Let me know, I would love to follow your journey!

Fun with Cruella!

Thu, 14 Nov 2019 20:50:11 GMT

I have worked with Rachel, a dog trainer out of Lubbock, before with all 7 of her dogs! This time around however, she approached me to do a Cruella Deville shoot with her dalmatian dog, Yoshi! This was such a fun experience and Rachel had the perfect outfit! It took a little bit for Yoshi to get comfortable in the studio, but he really did an awesome job as well! It's always so fun to work with creatives and especially ones that decide to go just a little "extra" for their shoot! For those wanting a little more technical information; I used a two light setup for the vertical images; a 36" gridded octabox from above and camera left and then a 24"x36" softbox lower and on the dog. I used a large white reflector from camera right to fill in the shadows on the right side. For the sofa shot, I used the same two key lights one on the model and the dog. But, then I added two rim lights on either side of the sofa. Feel free to let me know if you have any questions!

New Year - New Thinking

Wed, 20 Jan 2016 06:26:26 GMT

The New Year has started! 2015 was a banner year for me and I have no one to thank more than my awesome clients! Of course, the new year brings changes and I am no exception. I have updated my pricing list and offered some different pricing options for my high school seniors! I look forward to the new year and excited to see what it brings. Thank you again for being a client of mine and if you have not shot with me before, please feel free to give me a chance!

My Mentoring Mission Statement

Sun, 31 May 2015 22:06:32 GMT

My mission statement is this: I will treat you like a person that enjoys photography as much as I do. I will not treat you like a person that is trying to steal my business, but rather as a student that is wiling to learn and improve their craft. I will give you information that will help you succeed in the enjoyment of photography not fill you up with technicalities and overloads of information to overwhelm you and disappoint you. I will allow you to become the artist that you want to be, not the carbon copy of me or my work. I will praise you when you I think your work is outstanding and give you constructive criticism when I feel that it can help you improve. Finally, I will make sure that you will learn to LOVE this hobby as I do. Yes, it can be frustrating, expensive and down right maddening, but I promise you this: photography is about the journey, so enjoy the learning while on that journey.

If you know someone or you are that someone that has always wanted to learn the hobby of photography, send me a message. I look forward to meeting with you and helping you along your personal journey with photography!

New Experiences - Shooting with Horses

Tue, 12 May 2015 21:15:57 GMT

I was contacted by this college senior to do her senior portraits. Of course, I said yes, but then she stated that she wanted to have some images with her horse! Horse?! I have never shot with a horse before on a paid session, so I was a little apprehensive. However, on the day of the shoot, once we finished the normal college senior poses, we drove out to the equestrian center and began shooting. I never realized how beautiful horses are up close and how they are extremely photogenic! The images that I captured that evening were outstanding. I have so many great ones to choose from that I am actually going over my limit of promised images! I give thanks to Anna and her horse, Bahama, for this wonderful opportunity and amazing images!

A Sample of My Editing Process

Mon, 10 Nov 2014 21:06:04 GMT

Hey everyone! People have asked about my editing process and I thought I would share with you how I work on some of my portrait images. I try to remain very subtle and not overdo it, as you will notice from the video. I use Lightroom for 99% of my editing, but lately, I have been going back and forth between Lightroom and Photoshop. If you are serious about getting into photography, you really need both of these products to help you organize and edit your images. This is what will help you create a style that your customers will recognize and will get you noticed.

The Beauty of Collaboration

Thu, 04 Sep 2014 05:14:41 GMT

When I first started this photography thing that I do, I looked to local photographers to see if I could learn something from the pros already out in the field. However, I began to notice something; old school, veteran or long time photographers were not very forthcoming with information. It seemed that it was a secret society and I, the new guy with an entry level DSLR, was not welcome. Now, I feel like I have a very thick skin, but, I thought it was crazy that I had this feeling. So, instead of looking to local photographers, I looked to Youtube! I feel my entire photography "education" has been online. Of course, there is good info and bad info on the web and you can only learn so much. But, it feels that I have learned a ton and because of my art background and my computer background, I feel that I caught on very much faster than most. Not to "toot my own horn," but I was born to be a photographer! Now, out of this education and the love to collaborate with others, I created my own photography group. A group that is willing to work together to create awesome images and not bring the drama of "you're taking business away from me." We have collaborated on 2 large photo shoots and although they have not been the smoothest sessions, everyone created awesome images and came together for a bigger cause. I love working with others, learning from others, and especially teaching others. Now, I don't know everything about photography, but I know a little and I am very willing to share that knowledge. So remember, when you get in those creative ruts or you just do not understand a concept or need some help creating a concept; look to others to help you! Photography is an art form and collaboration can bring out the best in this art form! Also, be sure to visit my group's Facebook page and give it a "Like." We would greatly appreciate it. The 806 Photography Group

Women: You Are Beautiful!

Tue, 27 May 2014 04:48:43 GMT

I am a photographer. I take pictures of people, women especially, who sometimes feel that they are not beautiful. The problem is that, they are beautiful and the only ones that think that they are not beautiful are themselves. I ran across this awesome video and I want to share it with you. It is about the realities of what you think you see in the mirror and what others see when they look at you. So, the next time, you think that you are too this or too that to take pictures; remember this video. And remember, that you are beautiful!

Photographers Have to Make Money Too

Tue, 22 Apr 2014 05:22:51 GMT

Although I would not consider myself a seasoned professional, I think still have heard just about every excuse in the book when it comes to hiring a professional photographer. This article has some of the best and I have personally heard quite a few myself. Photography is not just about taking a picture! There is a lot of stuff that goes into it. Just because it's not always a tangible object, a lot of work has gone into it! Consider these excuses:

http://www.thephoblographer.com/2014/04/20/10-horrible-excuses-paying-professional-photographer/#.U1X7rPldXTc

Spring is Back!

Sat, 22 Mar 2014 18:00:22 GMT

The Winter has been so long this year and I feel like I have not been able to shoot nearly enough! This year is very exciting for me so far. I have the possibility of having my own studio and growing my business! This will open up new possibilities for me and will allow me to shoot even in not so good weather. Once I have more information, I will definitely pass it on to you guys! Another milestone for me this year was finally reaching the 500 likes on my Facebook page. I celebrated this milestone with two giveaways; one for a complete session with a $100 credit on my website and the other was just a complete session. I always enjoy reaching milestones as it helps me feel that my name and business is getting out there. I am not trying to grow my business too fast as I still have another business that is my main bread winner, but I still enjoy seeing the growth. Of course, if you have any questions for me please feel free to contact me. Thanks again for your support and I am excited about the future!

Website Redesign

Fri, 17 Jan 2014 06:44:12 GMT

I just reworked my website yet again! This time though I made the changes based on critiques from an awesome photographer, Tony Northrup. He has probably been the most helpful photographer that I have ever found. If you think that you would like to get into photography, I highly recommend his book, Stunning Digital Photography, which can be purchased here. He keeps photography simple and easy. When you sign up you get access to a wonderful private group that will definitely improve your photography immensely. He also has a great YouTube Channel that you can learn from as well. Thanks for visiting and I hope that you enjoy my photography and please feel free to share!

2014: A New Year with New Equipment

Wed, 08 Jan 2014 19:59:19 GMT

2014 has arrived and I am super excited to see what is in store for my budding business. I just recently have upgraded some of my equipment and look forward to using it for future photo sessions. Since trying to take photography a little more seriously, I invested in a Canon T3i late in 2012. This camera is an awesome camera to begin photography with and I highly recommend it to any beginning photographer. I am glad that I started with this body, as it is much simpler to work with and as a beginner, you need to learn more about photography before you even think about upgrading your equipment. I still have the body and will pass it down to my children to let them learn from it and it will be used as a backup body as well. I upgraded to a Canon 6D and along with the body I was able to purchase a 24-105mm L F/4 lens. These are incredible pieces of hardware, but they would have been no use to me as a beginner. As a beginning photographer you need to work with the equipment you have and do not blame the quality of your work on your equipment. I have been told many times that my photos do not reflect the equipment that I work with and some people are even surprised that I used entry level equipment. To sum up, the most important part of photography is the person behind the lens, not the equipment that is being used. Have a great 2014 and keep shooting!

The Bane of Professional Photographers: Wal Mart and other low cost photo labs.

Fri, 15 Nov 2013 23:23:24 GMT

Let me begin this by saying; Wal Mart has exceptional pricing on its products. Now that I have got that out of the way; Wal Mart and other low cost photo labs are the bane of professional, semi professional and advanced amateur photographers everywhere. As someone who wants to offer the best product for their customer and spends numerous hours editing photographs to come up with what we consider a product that represents our hard work, I hate to know that my photographs can be printed at those inferior printers. Now, do not get me wrong, for the occasional snap shot, family outings, or recent birthday party, I think they are by far the best way to save money and get your photos quickly. I understand the reason for their existence and I accept that they are available.

Your photo session is an investment. So the photographs that you get from that session should be an extension of that investment. I feel a good analogy would be buying a sports car and putting on inferior tires. Sure they look okay and they do the job, but why? You paid for a professional photographer to come up with the best possible photos during a small amount of time. Why not make sure that those photos represent that small amount of time is the best possible way?

The entire reason for this blog rant: my wife and I had a couple of parties scheduled at our house this past weekend. She said that we should replace the photos in our frames with new photos that I had taken. Of course, I was excited about it, but knew it was too late to order them from my usual lab in time for the parties. So, after loading my photos on a flash drive, we head to Wal Mart to get them printed. We get to the photo area and pull the photos from my flash drive onto the photo kiosk. I select the ones that I want to print, the sizes that I need and say, "no" to all of the extras and get my receipt. Five minutes later I scan my receipt and out comes my photos and my disappointment. The colors are dull and drab and even the black and white photos are only black and white. There seems to be no gradient or smooth transitions. On some of the photos, the picture is not even printed on the entire sheet and there is a white bar where the rest of the photo should be. To sum it up, I am deeply upset. Now, I should have complained and asked for my money back and made a scene, etc. etc., but I knew what I was getting into when I decided to try and get them printed. Please learn from my mistake and do not, under any circumstances, get your professional photos printed at an inferior lab....

I also have found other blogs of other photographers having similar experiences:

http://rebeccadanzenbaker.wordpress.com/2013/01/31/consumer-photo-labs-vs-pro-photo-lab-shocking-results/

http://blog.norakramerphotography.com/2013/08/why-use-a-professional-photo-lab.html

http://improvephotography.com/7756/test-results-best-online-print-lab/

So You're feeling too fat to be photographed

Tue, 24 Sep 2013 18:39:57 GMT

Another photographer shared this article with me and I thought I would share it with you. It is an amazing piece! If you feel like your weight is an issue with being photographed you must keep reading!

http://myfriendteresablog.com/so-youre-feeling-too-fat-to-be-photographed/

My Favorite Photography Websites!

Mon, 22 Jul 2013 22:04:18 GMT

Here is a list of my favorite photography websites that I love to learn from:

Fro Knows Photo: Photographer Jared Polin runs this site and it is full of information! He has a beginner's CD available for sale as well as Photography Forums for you to post to and receive feedback. He also has daily videos, training videos, and news videos concerning the world of photography.

Adorama: More than a camera store! This site has all kinds of photography equipment as well as a place to trade in your old equipment and best of all; a learning center full of videos with some awesome presenters. My favorites are Gavin Hoey and Mark Wallace!

Tony Northrup: Author of Stunning Digital Photography, is probably one of my favorites. After you purchase the book or ebook, you will then have access to his private photography page for the book and he actually will respond! I have had a couple of critiques of my photos from him and he is always very positive and encouraging. I cannot recommend Tony's book enough. He has just recently came out with an update and allows anyone that purchased the book a reduced fare to get the update. You cannot beat that!

If you know of any more great learning websites, please feel free to let me know!

Highly Recommended Book and Photographer

Fri, 19 Jul 2013 03:58:41 GMT

So I recently purchased a book called Stunning Digital Photography. I highly recommend it for any photographer looking to learns tips and tricks of the trade. Here is a link to Tony Northrup's YouTube Page. Tony is the author of the book and offers an easy, no nonsense way of learning photography!

What Makes Joe Baker Photography Different?

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 19:11:00 GMT

Have you had photos taken before and had to choose between a couple of poses?
Or you had to purchase packages only to have extras left?
Do you feel that professional looking photos are out of your budget?

Well, I am here to let you know that I think completely different when it comes to photography and what you, the customer, should receive or choose from. When you book a photo shoot with me, I am not concerned with number of poses or clothing changes. The hour you book with me is your hour! We can change venues, clothes, poses, have different combinations of people; whatever we can do during that hour is okay with me. I will shoot sometimes as many as 75-100 different shots during a photo shoot. I will choose, edit and upload the ones I think turned out the best. Usually, it ends up being around 10-15 different poses. You will get your own personal website link (with a password, if you want), where you can view, download, or print your favorites! Then you can email that same link to your family members and they can pick out their favorites to view, download or print. Your website includes different sizes, merchandise, and different types of photography paper to choose from that you want those pictures on. Once you decide what YOU want, then you can add those items to the cart, purchase and they will be delivered directly to YOU! Purchase as much or as little as you want. I do not believe in bundled packages, because I do not believe that they save you money. Maybe you cannot purchase all the prints at one time; the link is good for six months, come back and purchase at your leisure. My goal is to provide a service that is truly unique and benefits you!

Also, I am currently running a special where most 4 x 6 prints are only $.99! So book soon!

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me!

Black and White Editing in Lightroom

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:37:00 GMT

Check out this video from Adam Lerner on Black and White Editing in Lightroom. (My favorite editor of choice)

http://youtu.be/gyPehFvEx74

New Phone Number!

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 20:08:00 GMT

So now I have a phone number that you can reach me at! Call 806-318-8544 for info, bookings, or to just say "Hi!"

4 x 6 Prints Special

Tue, 19 Mar 2013 19:12:00 GMT

If you book any session with me in the next few weeks, I am currently running a special promotion on 4 x 6 prints. Any Lustre, Glossy, or Matte style 4 x 6 print is only $.99! And the Metallic 4 x 6 is only $1.99! Give me a call and setup your own photo shoot!

Working on my App

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 22:26:00 GMT

Hey all,
I've been working on my new app! The app will allow me to send you a virtual business card with all of my contact information, sample photos and links to all of my photography sites. I will keep you posted! Thanks again for your support.

My Equipment and Tools

Sun, 06 Jan 2013 19:57:00 GMT

Hey all,
I thought I would share a little bit about the equipment and tools that I use when taking photographs. It seems that when I visit other professional photographers blogs, websites, etc., they have all of this advanced equipment. Well, I am far from being a "professional" photographer, but I know that people are interested in what an up and coming photographer uses. I have had many compliments on my pictures, and I want people to know what I do or use to create my pictures. I do not want to scare other people away from photography or feel that they themselves cannot enjoy this hobby as much as I do. There is a ton of information on the Internet and a lot of it is good, but then there is bad information out there as well. I hope to give you my honest opinion and you can take or leave it as you see fit. Let's get started:

My Equipment:

Body: Canon T3i DSLR
Lenses That I Own:
- Canon Lens EF 50mm 1.8 II (Nifty 50, A Must Have Lens)
- Canon Zoom Lens EF-S 55-250mm 4-5.6 IS II
- Canon Zoom Lens EF-S 18-55mm 3.5-5.6 IS II
- Canon Zoom Lens EF 70-300mm 4-5.6 IS USM
Speedlight Flash YN560-II
STX Pro 656 Tripod
White Umbrella with Stand
Christmas Present: Ravelli Background System with Black/White Backgrounds
Of course I have some Class 10 Memory Cards and extra batteries, but nothing special about that.

Software that I use:

Currently I use Adobe Lightroom 4.3. This software is a must have if you want to take your photos to the next level! It is not as comprehensive as Photoshop, but it is easier to use and very powerful.
If you are just editing your normal snapshots, I have used Picasa and it is a great software to get started and the best thing is that it is free to download and use. http://picasa.google.com/
With the power of Lightroom, I seldom use Adobe Photoshop CS5, but I do have it as well.

I just would like to remind everyone that the equipment does not make the photograph. It still requires someone behind the lens with passion and drive to make a great photograph. I hope this helps with your own photography!

J Baker Photography

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 19:00:00 GMT

Hello World!

Thu, 03 Jan 2013 18:22:00 GMT

1st official post to my blog. I am excited about photography and look forward to what it can bring to me and my family in the new year. Hopefully, I will be posting some of my shots as well as some tips and techniques from other great photographers, amateurs and pros! Thanks for stopping by!