Quick Photography Tips from a Seasoned Magazine Photographer

When it comes to professional experience, Joe McNally has quite an impressive resume. McNally, who has been working in the industry for 30+ years and has done work for TIME, Newsweek, Entertainment Weekly, and countless other publications, took a few minutes out of his busy schedule to share some of his insights on what it means to be a photographer, as well as an assortment of tips to those aspiring to reach the level of success McNally has achieved. Take a look at the video below to see what he all has to share:

Advice From a Master

  • Photography requires a mental process in which photographers should be pre-visualizing shoots. Think about how things should go and how they could go wrong. Doing so will make you prepared for whatever the day throws at you.
  • Have a solid idea of how you want your photos to turn out, but don’t close off your creativity once you’ve settled on an idea. Keep your imagination flowing and your mind open to try new ideas. 
  • Photographers, like all artists, need drive to keep creating. Sometimes that drive will come from a money based job, but don’t forget about self assignments and personal projects. Remember, we are photographers because it’s fun, not because it’s a job.
  • Always keep a mental checklist in the forefront of your mind. Do your research, make sure you have the right equipment with you, know where the sun is going to be and what the weather is like if you’re shooting outside, don’t leave anything to surprise you. Preparation is key!
  • When photographing people it’s important to be a decent human being. Always try to understand where your clients are coming from. They may have reservations about being in front of a camera or feel vulnerable. It’s up to you to make sure they are comfortable and relaxed-your photographs are depending on it!

photography insights

“First and foremost, when you’re on location, you’ve got to deal with the humanity of the situation and build some kind of rapport before you even take those cameras out of the bag.”

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