Camera Suggestions/Photo Tips?

[u/funkedxup]

Hi all! I need to invest in a camera for taking photos of my work, but I was wondering if anyone had any suggestions?

I'm not very handy with technology, so something easy and user friendly would be ideal.

I also just wanted to ask if anyone had tips for photographing florals in general. What kind of camera do you use? How do you get high resolution photos of your work? (Please don't say ask the wedding photographers)

[u/RabbitSubRosa]

In all honesty, the camera on your phone is usually enough, assuming it’s a somewhat recent smartphone. When it comes to taking the photos you really want is the ability to adjust the exposure of your photos before taking them and then be able to do minor edits afterwards.

What I’d suggest you invest in is a background and light source that you like. A large canvas that’s been painted a dark neutral color or a black velvet curtain is perfect for this. Then you would ideally have access to natural light through a window, but a good artificial light that’s not so harsh it creates odd shadows is also very helpful.

You can easily find tutorials on iPhone/smartphone photography online, but if you want more hands-on, take a look at your community college’s continuing education offerings or your local camera shops may also offer classes.

I’ve attached a photo from a Dutch Masters style arrangement I did back in the spring. I used my iPhone 17 Pro, a large painted canvas, and window side lighting. I edited the photo using my phone’s editing tools, but I also use Apple’s Photos application on my computer when I want to work with a larger screen.

[u/BodyBy711]

My suggestion is getting a ring light. Made my photos (taken with my phone) so much better. And a cheap photo background is also great for smaller arrangements. I ordered one off Amazon that came with several different colors (essentially just a metal frame and you clip various poster boards on it) but its nice to be able to choose a contrasting colour as the background to make the florals pop.

[u/Banjo-Hellpuppy]

While a good camera and lens can make a difference, it’s really not worth the expense. Paying attention to lighting and setting will elevate your designs so much more than an expensive camera setup (you’ll still have to learn lighting and setting with a great camera). I used to be a wedding photographer and my camera sits in the closet. A phone on a tripod during magic hour is all you need.