The most effective video marketing campaigns start with professional photography.
You read that right, photography is, and has always been at the heart of any effective marketing strategy.
I’ll explain; most businesses have websites, a pile of social media pages, maybe a YouTube channel, a Google business page, Yelp, LinkedIn and more. The one thing these platforms have in common is they are heavily focused on photos.
One of the best ways to stand out online is to have high quality photography that not only tells a story, but shows who you are, what you do and where you’re located.
Admittedly it’s overwhelming to come up with profile photos, cover photos, photos of your location, photos of your products, or of you or your employees performing your services, headshots, photos of happy customers and clients, before and after photos. The list is seemingly endless, and often confusing.
You have options, most of them suck, but they are options.
Option 1: Take your own photos.
Most small or new businesses take their own photos, and it shows. Grainy, poorly lit and composed photos are the hallmark of a business that’s cutting corners in their marketing plan.
Most business owners don’t know what to take photos of never mind how to make those photos good. Maybe you’re a great photographer, and that’s awesome, do it up!
Option 2: Stock Photos
Can I just say “don’t do this” and let you trust me? No? Alright, hear me out.
Stock photos are inauthentic, unoriginal, irrelevant and don’t represent your business. They are the hallmark of lazy social media managers and web developers who are trying to slam out as much useless content as possible so they can get paid.
The same stock photos are used by thousands of businesses to the point of being a trope. They scream “I’m fake and trying to trick you.” Stock photos are the “lorum Ipsum” of the photography world – filler that should never be seen by the public until they are replaced with actual meaning. Do not use this option.
Option 3: Hire a Photographer (recommended)
Hiring an experienced photographer is the best way to get the photos you need to attract people to your social media, websites and ultimately generate sales. Photographers have years of training, practice and education. They understand storytelling and composition and have invested in the equipment needed to capture and process stunning images that will make you stand out from the crowd and give your potential and existing clients a better understanding of who you are and what you do.
How to find and pick the right photographer?
Good photographers are not as common as you’d think, and they are more specialized than you might imagine, and while they won’t generally break the bank, they aren’t cheap either.
That being said, I’ve created a Facebook group to assist you in finding them! Just go to facebook.com/groups/nepaphotographers and make a post detailing what you’re looking for.
Then follow up by looking at their work. You should expect to invest between $2,500 and $7,500+ on average every year for professional photography based on your needs.
Note: if you missed last weeks column on Content Calendars, now is the time to go back and read it. If you haven’t already, subscribing to the Times Leader should be on your urgent to-do list.
Long story short – Photography is an incredibly important part of effective marketing that cannot be overlooked. Before you start making videos you absolutely need to make sure your photography game is solid!
Homework
Go through your website and social media. Make a list of every place that could use a good photo. You probably need headshots, cover photos, photos of the inside and outside of your business, product photos and more.
Once you’ve made that list it’s time to find and hire a photographer! Go to facebook.com/groups/nepaphotographers and start putting out feelers!
As always, if you need help or have questions email me at [email protected] I read and answer EVERY email!
Jonathan Edwards is the owner of Diamond City Studios. Reach him at [email protected].
The transformation from color to a black-and-white image has a dramatic impact on the visual appearance. It means that the viewer isn’t distracted by bright colors and, instead, the focus is on the structure and texture. “One of the characteristics
of a good photograph is its feeling and effect on the viewer,” says Mostafa. Here, this black-and-white image transports the viewer’s feelings and takes them into another world. With the color almost fully reduced, the different elements in the photo are contrasted visually and the tree stands out even more.
Mostafa opted for one of photography’s most common and effective methods for focusing on the main subject, the rule of thirds. Imagine two horizontal and vertical lines dividing the picture evenly into three parts and intersecting at a total of four points – the composition is often at its best when the subject hits one of these points. “I try to place the main subject of the photo as much as possible on the intersections, so that the composition captures attention, directing the viewer’s gaze to the subject,” Mostafa says.
In terms of its size, the tree is the smallest element in the photograph, but it is also the most significant. It is enhanced by the wide background, which provides a negative space that artfully highlights the tree. “The combination of clouds in the background makes this a simple monotone photo,” Mostafa says. The structures of the clouds are reflected in the outer elements of the tree, creating an interesting interplay, while the extensive background gives the overall image a surreal effect.
The photograph radiates a sense of calm and opens up an expanded view of an image that no longer seems to be quite real. “To me, minimalist photography is an art, in the same way that artists learn how to omit the extra elements that seem to be essential in everyday life,” Mostafa says. By reducing the image and concentrating only on the key elements, they are depicted in their essence. Mostafa has twisted the concept of time and space, offering the viewer room for speculation and further imagination.
Camera: Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Lens: Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM
Aperture: f/10
Shutter speed: 1/400sec
ISO: 100
Mostafa Nodeh is a self-taught photographer based in Guilan, on Iran’s Caspian Sea coast. He is known for his captivating minimalist landscape photographs in black and white, which are inspired by conceptual photography and rooted in themes, ideas and symbolism.
Capturing the Essence of A Student-Photographer – The Observer
Hot off the successes of my local actor Cillian Murphy’s Golden Globe for “Oppenheimer,” it reminded me of my trip last year to another iconic location that also swept the boards at the illustrious awards, “The Banshees of Inisherin.” Movies have the extraordinary power to transport us to different worlds, allowing us to experience the magic of storytelling through the lens of a camera. But what happens when the magic extends beyond the big screen? What if we could step into the very locations that served as the backdrop for our favorite films? In this exploration, we delve into the enchanting world of movie locations, focusing on the rugged beauty of Achill Island’s Keem Beach—the cinematic stage for the film “The Banshees of Inisherin,” starring Colin Farrell and Brendan Gleeson.
As I set foot on Achill Island, the crisp sea breeze carried with it a sense of déjà vu. It wasn’t my first visit to Keem Beach—thanks to the immersive experience provided by “The Banshees of Inisherin.” The familiarity was uncanny, as if I had already walked the shores, explored the coastal cliffs, and ventured into the heart of the story.
The film’s main location, a captivating house overlooking Keem Beach, stood majestically against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. If you have seen the movie, then you know exactly what happened in this very house. If you haven’t, then I won’t spoil it for you. Its weathered exterior hinted at the challenges faced by its fictional inhabitants, and the rugged surroundings reflected the untamed beauty that makes Achill Island a haven for filmmakers seeking authenticity.
Equipped with my camera, I started my photographic journey that aimed not only to capture the raw beauty of Keem Beach but also to recreate the cinematic atmosphere that had left a lasting impression on me. The shots taken during this expedition were more than mere photographs; they were like frames plucked from the movie itself.
My camera turned toward the iconic house that played a central role in the film’s narrative. Its silhouette against the coastal backdrop evoked a sense of mystery and history. I approached it from various angles, capturing the play of light and shadow on its weather-beaten facade. Each click echoed the tales of the Banshees, blending reality with the cinematic realm.
The waves crashing against the rocky shoreline became my visual symphony. I recreated scenes from the film where the characters confronted the untamed sea, immortalizing the raw energy and untapped power of the Atlantic. The dance of the waves painted a dynamic canvas, mirroring the emotions conveyed in the movie.
The sandy shores of Keem Beach bore witness to the characters’ journeys in “The Banshees of Inisherin.” I followed in their fictional footsteps, photographing the imprints left by the actors and the narrative. The interplay of sunlight on the sand created a dreamlike quality, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary.
Stepping back, I embraced the entirety of Keem Beach as a cinematic stage. From panoramic shots capturing the vastness of the coastline to intimate frames highlighting the smallest details, my lens painted a vivid picture. Every frame whispered the echoes of the film, urging viewers to see the landscape through a cinematic lens.
The experience of exploring a movie location for photography goes beyond capturing picturesque landscapes. It’s about breathing life into the scenes that once unfolded on the silver screen. Here are compelling reasons why every photography enthusiast should consider this unique approach:
Movie locations provide a visual playground brimming with inspiration. The carefully chosen settings, whether a quaint village, a historic landmark, or a breathtaking beach, offer a rich tapestry for photographers to weave their own visual stories.
Visiting a movie location allows for a unique form of emotional connectivity. The viewer becomes a participant, stepping into the shoes of the characters whose stories unfolded in that very space. Photography becomes a tool to bridge the gap between fiction and reality.
Each movie location has its own narrative, and through photography, one can become a storyteller. The challenge lies in capturing the essence of the stories that unfolded within those spaces. It encourages photographers to think beyond aesthetics and delve into the emotive power of their craft.
Movie directors meticulously choose locations that complement their narrative. By exploring these locations for photography, one gains insight into cinematic composition. The play of light, the framing of shots, and the attention to detail—all these aspects contribute to creating visually compelling photographs.
For those who have watched a film set in a particular location, visiting that place is like stepping into a cherished memory. Photography becomes a means to transform personal connections and memories into tangible art, allowing individuals to share their unique perspectives on a shared cinematic experience.
Movie locations often lead photographers off the beaten path. Exploring these less-traveled areas unveils hidden gems and undiscovered landscapes. It encourages a sense of adventure and discovery, making the photographic journey as exciting as the cinematic one.
Achill Island, with its rugged landscapes and untamed beauty, served as the canvas for “The Banshees of Inisherin.” Keem Beach, nestled along the island’s western coast, became an integral part of the film’s narrative. But why should photographers specifically consider this location?
Keem Beach boasts natural splendor that transcends the cinematic world. The juxtaposition of cliffs, sandy shores, and the vastness of the Atlantic Ocean creates a mesmerizing backdrop for photography. Every corner of Keem Beach tells a story, waiting to be captured in a frame.
The house featured in “The Banshees of Inisherin” stands as an iconic landmark on Keem Beach. Its weathered charm and coastal perch provide a compelling subject for photography. Capturing the house against the ever-changing hues of the Atlantic sky transforms it into a timeless symbol of cinematic nostalgia.
Keem Beach offers a diverse range of scenes for photographers. From intimate shots of the house and shoreline to panoramic vistas capturing the entire beach, the versatility of the location allows for creative exploration. Photographers can experiment with perspectives and compositions, ensuring a varied portfolio.
Stepping onto Keem Beach feels like entering a cinematic world. The natural elements, combined with the historical and cultural significance of the location, infuse a touch of movie magic into every frame. Photographers can leverage this atmosphere to create images that resonate with the cinematic spirit.
For those who have seen “The Banshees of Inisherin,” Keem Beach becomes a canvas for storytelling. By capturing scenes reminiscent of the film, photographers can evoke the emotions and narratives embedded in the cinematic experience. It’s a unique opportunity to tell a visual story that echoes the Banshees’ tales.
Exploring movie locations for photography requires a thoughtful approach. Here are some tips to make the most of your cinematic adventure:
Before visiting a movie location, research the film to understand its narrative and the significance of each location. This knowledge will guide your photographic exploration and help you capture scenes that resonate with the movie’s themes.
Just like in filmmaking, lighting plays a crucial role in photography. Visit the movie location during times that complement the mood of the film. Whether it’s the soft glow of dawn or the warm hues of sunset, timing can elevate your photographs.
While iconic landmarks are essential, don’t forget to capture the smaller details that contributed to the film’s atmosphere. These details can add depth to your photographic story and showcase a nuanced understanding of the movie’s visual language.
Explore different angles and perspectives to recreate iconic shots from the film. Pay attention to framing and composition, aiming to capture the essence of the cinematic scenes while infusing your unique creative vision.
If the movie featured characters in specific locations, consider incorporating people into your photographs. This adds a dynamic element to the scenes, allowing viewers to connect with the human stories that unfolded in those spaces.
While photographing movie locations, be mindful of local regulations and private property boundaries. Respect the communities that host these iconic sites, ensuring a positive and responsible photographic experience.
Exploring movie locations for photography is not just about capturing beautiful landscapes—it’s about immersing oneself in the magic that cinema creates. Keem Beach on Achill Island, with its starring role in “The Banshees of Inisherin,” stands as a testament to the transformative power of film locations.
As I framed each shot on Keem Beach, I felt a profound connection between the real and the reel. The landscapes that once existed solely within the confines of a movie became tangible, and my photographs became a bridge between the cinematic world and the realm of personal experience.
For photography enthusiasts seeking a unique and immersive approach to their craft, movie locations offer a wealth of inspiration. The fusion of cinematic nostalgia, natural beauty, and the creative act of photography turns these locations into living canvases waiting to be explored. Keem Beach, with its rugged cliffs, rolling waves, and the iconic house, invites photographers to step into the cinematic frame and capture the magic that lingers long after the credits roll. In the footsteps of “The Banshees of Inisherin,” I discovered not just a picturesque beach but a canvas that weaves together the art of cinema and the craft of photography—a tapestry of stories waiting to be unveiled.
Have you photographed movie locations? If so, I would love to hear your stories.
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