The photo above is a practice session where we are demonstrating how to do an interview working with a translator during our Storytellers Abroad Missions Multimedia Workshop in Togo, West Africa. This is where we teach communicators who might be photographers, writers, and videographers how to be producers who can do this as a one-man-band storyteller. Most organizations will not have the resources to send out teams, but most can send one person.

In today’s fast-paced world, effective communication has become more critical. Communicating their mission, goals, and impact is essential for nonprofit organizations to engage with donors, volunteers, and other stakeholders. One way to achieve this is by having a professional communicator who can act as a one-person band if required by budget.

Having a Communications Specialist embedded in the field provides several advantages over having the position primarily at corporate headquarters with occasional travel to the area. One significant advantage is capturing and sharing stories and experiences in real time. This ensures that the content produced is authentic and relevant to the local context and can be used to inform and engage stakeholders more meaningfully.

Another advantage of having a Communications Specialist on the field is the ability to work more closely with the local staff to identify and create content that reflects the work and impact of the organization. As a result, they can collaborate more effectively to capture stories and experiences that are most relevant and impactful to the local community, ensuring that communication efforts are focused and targeted.

Furthermore, having a Communications Specialist in the field can help to ensure that communication efforts are aligned with the local context and culture. They can work more closely with the local staff to understand the nuances of the community, ensuring that communication efforts are sensitive to the local context and that messaging is appropriate and relevant.

In conclusion, having a Communications Specialist on the field provides a unique opportunity to capture and share stories and experiences that reflect the organization’s impact and work, collaborate more effectively with local staff, and ensure that communication efforts align with the local context and culture.

Drone photography has revolutionized how photographers capture images, offering a unique perspective that was once impossible without expensive equipment and extensive experience. With the advent of affordable and easy-to-use drones, anyone with the necessary training and certification can capture stunning aerial shots. In this blog post, we’ll explore how drone photography has changed what a typical professional photographer can offer their clients once they have their FAA Part 107 certification.

FAA Part 107 Certification

Before diving into how drone photography can benefit clients, it’s essential to understand the FAA Part 107 certification. This certification is required for anyone who wants to operate a drone for commercial purposes, including photography. To obtain the certificate, individuals must pass an aeronautical knowledge test and meet other requirements set forth by the FAA.

Commercial Drone Flying Without a Pilot’s License

• The civil penalties for flying commercially without obtaining a remote pilot’s certificate from the FAA are up to $32,666 for each incidence.
• This fine is charged per day for continual illegal use of a drone for commercial purposes after receiving a warning letter from the FAA.
• The FAA may also impose criminal sanctions, which include a fine of up to $250,000 and/or a prison sentence of up to three years upon conviction.

Once a photographer has obtained their FAA Part 107 certification, they can legally operate a drone for commercial photography. This opens up a new world of possibilities for photographers and their clients.

Benefits of Drone Photography for Clients

1. Unique Perspectives

Drone photography offers a unique perspective that is impossible to achieve with traditional photography equipment. With a drone, photographers can capture images from above, offering a bird’s-eye view of landscapes, buildings, and events. This perspective can provide clients a new and exciting way to showcase their products, properties, and events.

2. Increased Detail

Drones are equipped with high-resolution cameras that can capture incredible detail from above. This allows photographers to capture sharper and more detailed images than those caught from the ground. Clients can use these high-quality images for various purposes, including marketing materials, websites, and social media.

3. Enhanced Safety

With a drone, photographers can capture images from angles that were once impossible to achieve without putting themselves in danger. For example, drones can capture images of large structures, such as buildings and bridges, without needing a photographer to climb to dangerous heights. This enhances safety for both the photographer and their clients.

4. Cost-Effective

Drones are relatively inexpensive compared to traditional photography equipment, making them a cost-effective option for clients. In addition, capturing high-quality images from above can save clients time and money on an expensive helicopter or airplane rentals.

5. Versatility

Drones can be used for various photography needs, including real estate, events, and landscapes. This versatility allows photographers to offer a broader range of services to their clients, making them more valuable as a photographer.

Conclusion

Drone photography has genuinely changed what a typical professional photographer can offer clients once they have their FAA Part 107 certification. With the ability to capture unique perspectives, increased detail, enhanced safety, cost-effectiveness, and versatility, drone photography has become an essential tool for photographers looking to offer their clients the best. So if you’re a photographer looking to enhance your services, obtaining your FAA Part 107 certification and investing in a drone may be the perfect solution.

In today’s world, photographs play an important role in how potential students and their families perceive educational institutions. A professional photographer specializing in education and student recruitment can help institutions create a powerful visual brand that attracts the right students.

Here are some reasons why hiring a professional photographer is a smart move for educational institutions:

1. Quality photographs showcase the institution’s strengths and values: A professional photographer understands the importance of capturing images that highlight its unique qualities, such as its academic programs, campus culture, student life, and community engagement. These photos can be used in marketing materials, social media posts, and other communications to demonstrate what makes the institution stand out.
2. Professional photography creates a cohesive brand identity: An experienced photographer can work with the institution’s marketing and communications team to ensure that the photographs align with the institution’s overall brand identity. This can include color schemes, visual styles, and messaging that communicate the institution’s mission and values.
3. Photos can make or break a first impression: Potential students and their families often form their first impressions of an institution based on its website and marketing materials. High-quality photographs that showcase the institution’s facilities, student life, and academic programs can make a big difference in how prospective students view the institution.
4. Professional photographers have the technical expertise to capture the best shots: A professional photographer knows how to use lighting, angles, and other techniques to create visually appealing images that convey the right message. They also have the equipment and editing software necessary to produce high-quality images that can be used across various platforms.
5. Photography can help build an emotional connection with potential students: By showcasing the institution’s campus culture and student life through photographs, educational institutions can help likely students visualize themselves as part of the community. This can help build an emotional connection with the institution and increase students’ enrollment likelihood.

In conclusion, hiring a professional photographer specializing in education and student recruitment is an intelligent move for educational institutions that want to build a strong brand and attract the right students. With high-quality photos that showcase the institution’s strengths and values, institutions can create a powerful visual identity that resonates with prospective students and their families.

This is the Storytellers Abroad Workshop team in Lima, Peru. [NIKON Z 6, Sigma 24-105mm ƒ/4 Art, ISO 2000, ƒ/8, 1/200, Focal Length = 24]

Storytelling is essential for individuals and organizations to communicate their experiences, values, and ideas to their audience. However, becoming a proficient storyteller is not a one-time accomplishment but an ongoing process requiring continuous learning and practice.

Professional storytellers who assist people and organizations in finding and communicating their stories must keep up with evolving trends and technologies to remain effective in their craft. In addition, they must stay aware of the cultural, social, and economic shifts in their audience’s preferences to keep their stories relevant and engaging.

As non-fiction storytellers, they must be able to connect their audience with the message they are trying to convey. Therefore, adapting the narrative’s style and content to the audience’s needs is essential, making it easy for them to understand, empathize and find value in it. Storytellers must also be able to weave together facts, emotions, and insights to create compelling narratives that captivate their audience.

Additionally, these professional storytellers must be open to feedback and criticism. Constructive criticism helps them learn and grow, helping them adapt their storytelling style to create better narratives in the future.

In conclusion, storytelling is a never-ending journey for professional storytellers. They must continually improve their craft, adapt to their audience’s changing preferences, and learn from their mistakes to create compelling and relevant stories. This journey requires constant practice, learning, and creativity, but it ultimately makes more effective and powerful narratives for their clients.

As a professional photographer, you may have heard that prime lenses are the only way to truly high-quality images. However, while prime lenses certainly have advantages, they’re not always the best choice in every situation. There are many situations where a zoom lens can be the better choice for a professional photographer.

Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using a zoom lens:

1. Versatility: One of the most significant advantages of a zoom lens is its versatility, and flexibility prime lenses do not. With a zoom lens, you can quickly and easily change your focal length without swapping out lenses. This can be especially useful in dynamic environments where you must quickly capture various shots.
2. Convenience: Zoom lenses are also convenient because you don’t have to carry around multiple lenses. This can be especially important for photographers who are shooting on location and must keep their gear to a minimum.
3. Depth of Field: While prime lenses have the advantage of larger maximum apertures, which can create a shallower depth of field and more bokeh, zoom lenses can also create this effect by zooming in and using a longer focal length.
4. Image Quality: Zoom lenses have come a long way in recent years and can produce excellent image quality. Some zoom lenses even rival the image quality of prime lenses.

Of course, there are still situations where a prime lens might be the better choice. For example, if you’re shooting in low light and need a wide aperture to let in more light, a prime lens with a large aperture might be the best option. However, a zoom lens can be more versatile and convenient for many other situations.

So if you’re a professional photographer who has hesitated to use a zoom lens, it might be time to reconsider. With their versatility, convenience, and image quality, zoom lenses can be an excellent choice for many types of photography.

For Those Who Feel The Need To Comment

It’s important to remember that everyone has their preferences and opinions regarding photography gear and techniques. While some may prefer prime lenses or avoid high ISO settings, others may find value in using zoom lenses or shooting at higher ISOs.

• Regarding the comment about prime lenses: “While some photographers prefer the sharpness and image quality of prime lenses, I find that the versatility and convenience of zoom lenses better suit my shooting style and needs in certain situations. Of course, everyone’s preferences will differ depending on their goals and shooting conditions.”
• Regarding the comment about high ISO: “While it’s true that shooting at high ISOs can introduce noise and reduce image quality, I’ve found that using higher ISO settings can also be a valuable tool for capturing low-light scenes or fast-moving subjects. Of course, there may be situations where it’s better to avoid high ISOs and use other techniques like longer exposures or additional lighting.”

Please remember respectful and constructive dialogue can help build understanding and bridge differences, while trolling or derailing conversations can be counterproductive.

In the Parable of Talents, Jesus tells the story of a man who entrusts his three servants with varying amounts of money while he goes on a journey. Two of the servants invest and grow the money they are given, while the third servant buries his talent in fear of losing it. This parable represents our tendency to play it safe and avoid taking risks, even when it comes to pursuing growth and progress.

Analysis Paralysis and Career Changes

Many individuals struggle with taking action and are stuck in what is commonly referred to as “analysis paralysis.” This is the tendency to overthink and analyze a situation to the point of inaction, leading to missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. One example of this is a person considering a career change. They may spend months or even years researching different career paths, becoming so focused on analyzing every detail that they never actually take the necessary steps to make a change.

To overcome analysis paralysis, it is important to take small steps towards the goal, even if everything is not figured out yet. Setting deadlines, taking action, and seeking support and guidance from others can all help to move forward and make progress towards career goals.

The Fear of Starting a New Venture

Another example of playing it safe is the fear of starting a new business or pursuing a creative passion. Many people have dreams of starting their own company or pursuing a creative passion but are held back by the fear of failure and the unknown. Like the man who buried his talent, they may choose to play it safe and stick with the security of their current job, even if it means sacrificing their potential for growth and success.

Excuses and Personal Growth

Excuses can also lead to problems in the realm of personal growth and self-improvement. Many people make excuses for not pursuing their passions or working towards their goals, such as “I don’t have enough time” or “I’m not talented enough.” These excuses may feel valid, but they ultimately hold individuals back from reaching their full potential and creating a fulfilling life.

Making Excuses and Stagnation

By not pursuing their passions or working towards their goals, individuals may feel unfulfilled and unhappy in their personal and professional lives. This can lead to strained relationships with family and loved ones and a sense of regret and missed opportunities. It can also create a cycle of complacency and lack of motivation, leading to a stagnation of personal growth and progress.

Take Responsibility for Action and Choices

Ultimately, the message of the Parable of Talents is that we must take action and use our abilities to their fullest potential to grow and succeed. While it can be tempting to play it safe and avoid risk, we must have the courage to step out of our comfort zones and pursue our dreams, knowing that the potential for growth and success is worth the risk. By taking responsibility for our choices and actions, and working towards our goals despite obstacles and challenges, we can create a more fulfilling and secure life for ourselves and those around us.

Photo By Gibbs Frazeur [NIKON D750, 14.0-24.0 mm f/2.8, Mode = Manual, ISO 450, 1/1000, ƒ/8, (35mm = 14)]

As a professional photographer, always having a backup plan for equipment is crucial. This was emphasized to me during my recent experience while doing commercial real estate drone work.

Upon arriving at the job site, I encountered an error message on my DJI Air 2S drone, stating that it could not take off due to a code 30064 error. I immediately attempted to troubleshoot the issue by researching online and downloading new software, but to no avail. Then, I realized the importance of having a backup drone on hand.

Luckily, I had my first drone, the DJI Air 2, with me as a backup, and I could complete the job without any further issues. However, the job could have been a complete disaster if I had not been prepared with a backup drone.

After completing the job, I went home and researched the issue and found the solution was reinstalling the DJI app on my Android phone. However, I did not receive a warning about the DJI app while in the field, which could have prevented the problem altogether.

I have a few tips for fellow drone photographers to avoid similar issues in the future. Firstly, always turn on your drone and update its software before leaving the house. This ensures you have the latest firmware updates and know your internet connection. Secondly, test-fly your drone before the job to ensure everything works as it should. This can prevent any issues from occurring during the actual job. Lastly, always format your SD card after updating the software to ensure no compatibility issues.

In conclusion, my recent experience highlighted the importance of having a backup plan for equipment when doing professional photography, especially when working with drones. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your equipment is always up to date and that you are prepared for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise on the job.

[X-E2, XF55-200mmF3.5-4.8 R LM OIS, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 2000, 1/500, ƒ/5.6, (35mm = 300)]

Depth of field is one of the most critical aspects of photography that allows photographers to control the amount of sharpness in a scene. It refers to the range of distances within a scene that appear acceptably sharp in an image. While many assume that depth of field is all about the aperture, the truth is that focal length and distance to the subject are just as crucial.

The aperture is undoubtedly an essential factor that affects the depth of field. A wide aperture (small f-number) results in a shallow depth of field, while a narrow aperture (large f-number) results in a deep depth of field. However, focal length and distance to the subject also play a significant role in determining the depth of field.

Focal length refers to the distance between the lens and the camera’s image sensor. It affects the angle of view, perspective, and image compression. When using a longer focal length, the depth of field appears shallower, making the background blurrier. In contrast, shorter focal lengths result in a deeper depth of field, making more of the scene appear in focus.

Distance to the subject is another critical factor that affects depth of field. When you move closer to the subject, the depth of field becomes shallower. Conversely, when you move away from the subject, the depth of field becomes deeper. This is why portraits shot at a close distance with a wide aperture have a shallow depth of field, resulting in a blurred background.

Therefore, to achieve the desired depth of field, it is crucial to consider all three factors: aperture, focal length, and distance to the subject. A photographer needs to understand these factors and how they interact to create the desired effect in their image.

In conclusion, while the aperture is a crucial factor that affects the depth of field, it is equally important to consider the focal length and distance to the subject. By understanding how these factors interact, photographers can create stunning images with the perfect depth of field for their subject and creative vision.

Investiture Ceremony Honorable J. Elizabeth McBath [NIKON Z 9, NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S, Mode = Aperture Priority, ISO 6400, 1/250, ƒ/5.6, (35mm = 400)]

If you are an avid photographer who loves to capture events, you may have already come across lenses with varying focal lengths. Two of the most popular lenses used for event photography are the 100-400mm and the 28-300mm lenses. While both lenses are versatile and can be used in various situations, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens can make all the difference when capturing high-quality images at events.

The difference in focal length between the two lenses may not seem significant at first, but it can make a world of difference when photographing events. In addition, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens provides a substantial amount of reach that can come in handy in various situations.

First and foremost, the extra reach provided by the 100-400mm lens allows you to capture images of your subjects from a greater distance. This can be particularly useful in situations where you may not be able to get too close to your issues, such as at concerts or sporting events. In addition, with the extra 100mm, you can zoom in and capture details that would have been impossible to capture with the 28-300mm lens.

In addition to the increased reach, the 100-400mm lens provides better image quality. The optics on the 100-400mm lens are designed to give sharper images with less distortion, which is essential when capturing detailed shots at events. The lens also has a wider aperture, which allows more light to enter the lens and provides better low-light performance.

Another advantage of the 100-400mm lens is that it allows you to blur the background more effectively. This is especially useful when photographing portraits or capturing action shots at events. In addition, the lens’s longer focal length helps compress the background, making it easier to create a shallow depth of field and isolate your subject from the background.

Of course, it’s worth noting that the Nikon 100-400mm Z lens is generally about the same weight as the Nikon 70-200mm ƒ/2.8 Z lens, making it easier to carry around all day.

In conclusion, while the 100-400mm and the 28-300mm lenses are versatile and can be used for event photography, the extra 100mm on the 100-400mm lens can make all the difference when capturing high-quality images. The extra reach, improved image quality, and better background blur make the 100-400mm lens a must-have for any event photographer looking to take their photography to the next level.

Backing up digital content isn’t just a technical step—it’s an essential safeguard for protecting precious memories and critical data. A robust backup strategy ensures that your files are secure and accessible, no matter what unexpected challenges arise. Let’s explore a workflow tailored for photographers, videographers, and brand storytellers.

The Evolution of Backup Practices
Over the years, storage methods have significantly evolved. While CDs and DVDs were once popular backup choices, their limited storage capacity and slower access times have made them obsolete. For the past decade, I’ve transitioned entirely away from optical discs. Now, solid-state drives (SSDs) serve as my primary storage medium for working on photo and video projects.

Once a project is complete, I take a layered approach to backups:

1. Primary Storage: Finished images are uploaded to platforms like PhotoShelter (for photos) and Vimeo (for videos). These platforms provide secure, cloud-based storage and easy accessibility for clients and collaborators.
2. Secondary Backup: Projects are archived on a NAS (Network Attached Storage) system, specifically Synology, which offers advanced file management and data integrity features.

The Importance of Multiple Backups
Copying files from one drive to another isn’t sufficient to ensure their safety. Hard drives can fail, SSDs can become corrupted, and even well-maintained systems can encounter unexpected issues. That’s why I follow the 3-2-1 rule:

• 3 Copies of your data
• 2 Different types of storage (e.g., local drives and cloud services)
• 1 Off-site backup

Using PhotoShelter as part of this strategy provides several advantages. It offers built-in redundancy, meaning multiple backups are maintained on their end. Additionally, its user-friendly platform allows for secure sharing and customizable permissions, making collaboration effortless.

Enhancing Data Protection with RAID Systems
Implementing a RAID (Redundant Array of Independent Disks) system is an excellent way to bolster data protection for home office setups. RAID uses multiple hard drives to ensure redundancy. For instance, if one drive fails, the system allows you to continue accessing your files from the remaining drives while replacing the faulty one.

Key Takeaway
Your digital content is valuable—both to your creative vision and to your clients. Adopting a modern, layered backup strategy using SSDs, cloud platforms like PhotoShelter or Vimeo, and a reliable NAS system like Synology ensures that your work is safe and easily accessible. By leveraging these tools, you can confidently protect your projects and deliver a seamless experience to your audience.

In conclusion, having multiple backup copies of your digital content and a secure cloud storage solution is crucial. By following a backup strategy that includes various backups and different media, such as CDs, DVDs, external hard drives, and cloud storage, you can ensure the safety and availability of your photos and other digital content. Additionally, exploring technologies such as RAID systems can provide extra protection and peace of mind.

When a client contacts a photographer for a job, there are several key questions and pieces of information that the photographer should gather to provide the best possible service. Some of these include:

1. Type of event or photoshoot: The photographer needs to know what kind of event or photoshoot they will cover, such as a wedding, portrait session, corporate event, etc.
2. Date and location: The photographer will need to know the date and location of the event or photoshoot.
3. Duration: The photographer will need to know how long the event or photoshoot will last.
4. Client’s vision and style: The photographer will want to understand the client’s vision and style for the event or photoshoot, including any specific ideas or themes they have in mind.
5. Budget: The photographer will want to discuss the client’s budget for the job, including any specific concerns or constraints.
6. Prints and products: The photographer will want to know if the client wants any prints or products, such as albums, canvases, or digital files.
7. Editing and retouching requests: The photographer will want to know if the client has any specific requests for editing and retouching, such as specific filters or effects they wish to be applied.
8. Contact information: The photographer will want to get the client’s contact information, such as their name, email address, and phone number, to stay in touch and provide updates on the job.
9. Deadline: The photographer needs to know when the deliverable is expected. Sometimes the client even needs photos during the event or within the hour after the event. Most of the time, they are comfortable with a few days before getting the deliverable, but you need to know their expectations.

By gathering this information, the photographer can better understand the client’s needs and tailor their services to meet their requirements.

Ending the Phone Call

Before ending a phone call with a client, the photographer should summarize the key points discussed during the call and confirm the next steps. For example, they might say something like:

“Okay, so I understand that you’re looking for a photographer for a wedding on June 12th, and you’re interested in having a mix of posed and candid shots. You’re also looking for a package that includes a digital album and some prints. I’ll send you a detailed estimate and some examples of my work in the next few days. Thank you for the call, and I look forward to hearing back from you.”

Regarding giving a formal estimate to the client, it is a good practice to send it in writing after the call rather than giving it verbally. This provides a clear and detailed record of the agreed-upon services and costs, which can be referred to later if necessary. Additionally, it allows the client to take their time to review and consider the estimate, and it gives the photographer a chance to carefully consider the client’s specific needs and requirements before putting together a proposal.

Most of the time, end the call so you can work on the estimate

When you need to end the call and let the client know that you need to work through the numbers before providing a quote, you can use polite and professional phrasing such as:

“Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I have all the information I need to provide you with an accurate estimate. I’ll consider all your requirements and preferences and get back to you as soon as possible with a detailed quote. If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out. Have a great day!”

This lets the client know that you are taking their request seriously and working on providing a comprehensive quote. It also demonstrates professionalism and customer service, which can help to build trust and establish a positive relationship with the client.

When You Must Give a Quote Right Away

Sometimes, a photographer may need to give a quote before the end of the call, such as when the client has a tight deadline or when they need to make a decision quickly. For example, suppose a client contacts a photographer for an event that is taking place the following week and needs to secure a photographer as soon as possible. In that case, the photographer may need to provide a quote during the initial call. In these cases, the photographer should still try to gather as much information as possible about the client’s needs and requirements and then provide a quote that is as accurate and detailed as possible, given the limited information available.

For example:

Client: “Hi, I’m interested in hiring a photographer for an event next weekend. Can you give me a quote?”

Photographer: “Of course! Can you tell me a little more about the event, including the date and location and what kind of coverage you’re looking for?”

Client: “The event is next Saturday, a corporate function downtown. We need someone to cover the event for 5 hours, including both posed and candid shots.”

Photographer: “Okay, I can certainly do that for you. Based on your information, I can give you a rough estimate of $X. Please keep in mind that this is a rough estimate, and a more detailed quote can be provided once I have more information. Does that work for you?”

In this scenario, the photographer provides a quote as requested by the client but notes that the quote is a rough estimate and that a more detailed quote can be provided later. This allows the photographer to secure the job and provide a more accurate quote once they have all the necessary information.

As a photographer, technical skills and subject knowledge are the most critical factors for taking great photos. However, as I was reminded this week, there’s a crucial aspect that often goes overlooked: your relationship with the subject.

I recently worked with Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina, photographing their executive director and leadership team. But the connection between us went much deeper than just a client-photographer relationship.

My father was a pastor at Kennedy Home in Kinston, a part of Baptist Children’s Homes of North Carolina. Growing up, I received the Charity & Children newsletter and even wrote to Jim Edminson, one of the leaders, to connect and let him know about my background and interests. This connection paid off years later when Jim thought of me to celebrate their executive’s 40 years of service.

Additionally, my grandfather, Rev. Knolan Benfield, was a respected North Carolina pastor, with most of his career spent in Hickory and Morganton.

But there’s another layer to this connection. Don Ball was the first director of social work at Kennedy Home and later created the social work program at East Carolina University, where I got my degree in social work. And when I was introduced to the team, they immediately knew of my background and connection to the organization. They treated me like one of their own, making for a relaxed and comfortable photoshoot.

This experience taught me the power of pedigree in photography. When looking for clients or subjects to work with, take notice of the connections from your past. See who might overlap with your skills and background, and reach out to those people. You never know what opportunities might come from those connections.

In conclusion, while technical skills and subject knowledge are essential, consider the impact of your relationship with the subject. Your pedigree can make all the difference in creating a comfortable and successful photoshoot.