Canon 35mm f1.4 L VCM Quick Take
When Canon released their new hybrid 35mm 1.4, I didn’t think it was for me. As a headshot photographer, 35mm is a bit too wide for my usual work. However, with some interesting video-centric features like an iris control ring, I decided to give it a try.
Canon’s 35mm 1.4 L VCM Lens, Is It Worth It for a Headshot Photographer?
When Canon released their new hybrid 35mm 1.4, I didn’t think it was for me. As a headshot photographer, 35mm is a bit too wide for my usual work. However, with some interesting video-centric features like an iris control ring, I decided to give it a try.
Currently, the only other hybrid lens in Canon’s lineup with the iris control is the 24-105 f2.8 L USM Z, which is amazing. But it looks like new lenses might be announced any day now!
While I enjoy the 35mm 1.8 for its affordability and macro capabilities, it’s not ideal for video, so this new 1.4 seemed worth a test.
Field Testing the Lens
I’ve used the new 35mm 1.4 during high school senior sessions, dance clinics, and soccer games. It also worked great for lifestyle portraits of my dogs and son. The compact design makes it a fantastic walkaround lens, and the custom button on the barrel adds some nice flexibility (though I’m still deciding the best use for it!).
How Does It Perform?
For pet portraiture, especially action shots of my dogs, this lens really shines. The autofocus is fast and accurate, ensuring a high hit rate—just keep that shutter speed high. In senior portraits, it’s perfect for environmental shots but a bit wide for close-up headshots.
And I even recorded this video using the new lens. What do you think?
Should You Get It?
If you’re doing video work on Canon RF mirrorless or cinema cameras, this lens is a no-brainer. The performance and f1.4 aperture (with manual iris control) are ideal for video applications. Still photographers, if you’re happy with your current 35mm, this lens might not be life-changing. But if you’re considering an upgrade, you won’t be disappointed.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
What To Expect When Booking Corporate Headshots
Are you planning a headshot day for your colleagues in the office? Or maybe you’re hosting a conference and need a headshot booth? Either way, choosing the right photographer for your corporate headshot project can be a daunting task.
Are you planning a headshot day for your colleagues in the office? Or maybe you’re hosting a conference and need a headshot booth? Either way, choosing the right photographer for your corporate headshot project can be a daunting task.
With a decade of experience in corporate headshots, I’m here to guide you through what to expect when booking.
Specialized Expertise for Corporate Headshots
Corporate headshots require a different approach compared to individual or creative photoshoots. The images need to be consistent and professional, maintaining a uniform look for all participants. This involves specific posing, lighting, shooting, and processing techniques to ensure repeatable results throughout the day and in the future.
Remember, most participants aren’t professional models, and being photographed isn’t their favorite activity. Often, we work in conference rooms with simple setups—no elaborate scenery or props. This makes the photographer’s skill crucial.
Leveraging Technology for Better Results
Software plays a significant role in achieving excellent headshot results efficiently. I use a great tool called Headshot Tools, which has quickly become the industry standard for corporate and event headshot photography. By shooting directly into a computer, clients can see previews during the session, allowing for immediate adjustments to hair, clothing, or other details. This eliminates surprises and ensures everyone is happy with their images.
Streamlined Workflow with Headshot Tools
Headshot Tools offers several features that make the process smoother for both the photographer and the client. For project organizers, receiving files named by employee name saves the hassle of renaming files. Moreover, each subject gets a private gallery link within minutes of their session, so they can select their favorite image for retouching without the whole office seeing their proofs.
Once retouched, the images are delivered back through the same proof gallery. This means you, as the project organizer, don’t need to send numerous individual emails. Instead, you receive a master gallery link to download all the finished images in one place.
Ready to Book?
When choosing a headshot photographer, be sure to ask about the software workflow (it might just save you hours or days of work after the event). Reviews, local reputation, image portfolio, studio availability, and options for new hires are also important to the experience.
Reach out if you’re interested in learning more about headshot options for your team or your next event or conference. I’m Detroit based, but I do travel for larger projects. For smaller projects outside Michigan, I might be able to recommend a fellow photographer that can offer a similar level of service.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 L IS USM Z Initial Review
When Canon released the new 24-105 f2.8 RF lens, I was initially uninterested. My experience with the 28-70 f2 lens was underwhelming due to its limited range and awkward size. However, in situations where f2.8 is necessary, f4 simply doesn’t cut it. So, I decided to give the new lens a second look.
Since moving to Canon a few years ago, the 24-105 f4 lens has been my go-to workhorse lens. Its compact size and versatile focal range cover about 90% of what I need for most of my paid studio work. While an f2.8 aperture isn’t essential for my needs, owning the 70-200 f2.8 has shown me the perks of a faster lens.
When Canon released the new 24-105 f2.8 RF lens, I was initially uninterested. My experience with the 28-70 f2 lens was underwhelming due to its limited range and awkward size. However, in situations where f2.8 is necessary, f4 simply doesn’t cut it. So, I decided to give the new lens a second look.
Although I primarily use my gear for still portrait photography, client demand for video is increasing, and this lens is clearly designed with video in mind. So, I decided to pull the trigger and add the Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 to my collection. Here are my initial thoughts.
First Impressions and Build Quality
Straight out of the box, the lens isn’t small, but it has a great level of balance and refinement. It’s about the size of a classic 70-200 lens, whether from Canon or Nikon, with internal focusing. The lens also features a sturdy tripod collar similar to the reliable Nikon design.
As a hybrid video lens, it includes an aperture ring, or iris control (for videographers), which is currently only functional for video. However, future camera updates may change this. Additionally, the lens has function buttons on the barrel.
Performance and Usability
The Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 lens supports a new power zoom module, providing a smooth powered zoom function that makes perfect sense given its focal range. In the studio, the lens has performed fantastically so far, offering noticeably sharper images than the f4 version.
For video, I tested the lens in some extreme lighting conditions at home, and the results were nothing less than cinematic. This lens has quickly earned its place in my bag. While it might be overkill for quick on-location jobs, it offers significant advantages in scenarios requiring a bit more power. Additionally, it adds valuable redundancy to my kit.
Versatility and Future Proof
Over the next few months, I plan to dive deeper into video work, and this lens will provide ample room for experimentation.
In summary, the Canon RF 24-105 f2.8 lens offers a perfect balance of performance and versatility, making it a valuable addition to any studio photographer’s kit. Whether you’re focused on stills or venturing into video, this lens is designed to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.
Got headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Is the M4 iPad Pro Worth the Upgrade? A Photographer’s Perspective
When the M4 iPad Pro was released, I found myself contemplating whether it was worth upgrading from my existing iPad Pro. I know Apple Silicon is nothing to write off, but my previous iPad Pro was still performing well. So, is the upgrade really worth it?
When the M4 iPad Pro was released, I found myself contemplating whether it was worth upgrading from my existing iPad Pro. I know Apple Silicon is nothing to write off, but my previous iPad Pro was still performing well. So, is the upgrade really worth it? Let’s dive in.
iPad Pro for Photographers
As a full-time headshot and portrait photographer, I primarily use my iPad Pro as a light-duty laptop. It handles email, scriptwriting for YouTube, reading, and watching videos effortlessly (the new display is amazing). However, I don’t rely on it for photo editing. My current shooting and editing workflow makes it challenging to use Lightroom on my iPad without misplacing images.
While CaptureOne has released a solid mobile version, I haven’t found the right workflow for regular iOS use. Lightroom’s mobile app is also commendable, but transitioning from Lightroom Classic is a chore.
In the store, the new iPad Pro’s thinner and lighter design, along with the latest keyboard with a trackpad, impressed me. My old iPad keyboard lacked a trackpad, and the difference it makes is significant. The 11-inch size is perfect for air travel, fitting comfortably even with the seat in front reclined.
iPad Pro Performance and Usability
You might wonder if an M4 chip is necessary for an iPad. Honestly, probably not at the moment, but with Apple’s recent advances in AI technology (aka Apple Intelligence), this iPad is built to last several years. At the moment, it’s the only hardware with an M4 chip! I opted for a 512 GB 11-inch model with a keyboard.
In a casual test, I photographed soccer games and imported hundreds of JPGs into Lightroom Mobile. The iPad handled it effortlessly. The only limitation was the slow hotel WiFi.
As a light video editor, I’m excited to test Final Cut Pro on the iPad, which my previous iPad Pro couldn’t support. The iPad is certainly versatile, serving as a second screen for client proofing, and allowing direct shooting into the iPad, adding redundancy and flexibility in the field.
iPad Pro Practical Benefits for Photographers
For photographers like me, iPad Pro is a valuable tool. It streamlines my workflow, especially on location shoots with just a few clients. The portable setup allows for quicker job execution, saving time and money.
iPad Cost
If there are downsides, it’s price. A 512 GB iPad Pro costs around $1200, and that’s before adding a keyboard or AppleCare. Thankfully, my old iPad trade-in helped offset some of the cost. Beyond a certain price point, a MacBook Air might be a more economical choice unless you specifically need iPadOS.
Conclusion
All things considered, M4 iPad Pro offers a notable performance boost. If you’ve been holding off and prefer the iPad form factor despite the cost, this upgrade won’t disappoint.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
The Tripod—Headshot Gear Essentials
Tripods may not be the most glamorous piece of photography equipment, but I believe they are essential, especially in headshot photography.
Tripods may not be the most glamorous piece of photography equipment, but I believe they are essential, especially in headshot photography.
Consistency and Precision in Headshot Photography
The primary benefit of using a tripod is the ability to achieve consistency and repeatability in your work. As a corporate headshot photographer, maintaining the same look across different sessions and locations is crucial. A tripod helps ensure my framing remains consistent, which is vital for corporate profiles where uniformity is often required.
Enhanced Interaction and Ergonomics
Beyond consistency, tripods allow photographers to focus more on interacting with the subject rather than holding the camera. This is particularly useful in portrait photography, where capturing the right expression is key. With the camera securely mounted, you can step aside and engage with your subject more naturally, which often results in better, more genuine expressions.
Using a tripod can significantly reduce physical strain—a huge long term benefit. We photographers often suffer from neck, back, and shoulder pain after long sessions. A tripod alleviates much of this by enabling a more ergonomic friendly posture.
The Myth of Creativity Restriction
Some might argue that tripods restrict creative freedom. However, for certain types of photography like corporate headshots, consistency is more beneficial than extreme angles or unusual perspectives. Of course, if you see a brilliant creative angle, you can always take the camera off the tripod as needed.
Conclusion: A Long-term Investment in Quality
A tripod is a vital tool for any serious photographer, particularly those specializing in headshots. While the initial investment might seem substantial (you get what you pay for), the benefits—consistency, ergonomic support, and enhanced interaction with subjects—far outweigh the cost. Investing in a quality tripod, like those made by Feisol or Mefoto, ensures durability and reliability in your photography practice. Visit your local camera store to check out the options.
Whether you're photographing in a studio or on location, incorporating a tripod into your workflow will not only improve the consistency of your images but also enhance your overall shooting experience (so you’ll be ready for the next project).
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
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