It's another new year, and I'm sure you're like me and looking for ways to make 2021 an even better year for your photography than 2020.
Fortunately for photographers these days, there's no shortage of ways that we can improve our craft.
From learning new skills to committing ourselves to our particular photography style to actually printing our photos rather than just sharing them online, the tips I've outlined below will get you going in the right direction for achieving new heights with your photography.
Print Your Photos
I take a lot of pictures.
Yet, something that's bothered me for awhile is that the vast majority of them never see the light of day.
Sure, they might get some Instagram or Facebook action, but eventually they get buried in the feed and I forget about them.
That's why I've resolved to print more photos in 2021.
We've got tons of ways to have our photos printed these days, which is a blessing and a curse.
On the one hand, it's easier than ever to get your photos printed. On the other hand, most printers simply aren't worth the money.
But some, like CanvasHQ, have managed to bridge both worlds and offer the highest-quality canvas prints at great prices.
For starters, CanvasHQ offers you tons of variety when it comes to how your canvases look.
You can select from a variety of finishes - including semi-gloss, glossy, matte, and iridescent - to customize the appearance of your photos.
Not only was I impressed by your expertise and fine work, but your customer service really went above and beyond in every possible way. I will gladly recommend Canvas HQ to others! (And you can quote me on that!) - Eileen Cowel, Durham, NC
There's also a selection of artwork frame depths, ranging from a slim .75-inches for a clean, modern look to a full 2-inch frame that helps your photos really make a statement on the wall.
CanvasHQ offers a variety of sizes as well, from an 8x10 for a small space to a 30x40 print to make a statement above the fireplace to a massive 40x60 print that is sure to make people's jaws drop.
On top of all that, CanvasHQ has a 100% satisfaction guarantee, so if for some reason you aren't in love with your print, just let them know within 30 days and you can get your photo reprinted or get your money back.
But I can tell you from firsthand experience that you'll be blown away by the quality of your canvas prints from CanvasHQ...
I have several of their prints in my home, and each time I see them I fall in love with my photos all over again!
If you want to fall in love with your photos all over again as well, get in touch with CanvasHQ.
Learn More:
Take Photos For You
If you're struggling creatively or are simply looking for a new direction for your photography in 2021, there's one thing that can help guide you in the right direction - your specific wants and tastes.
In a world in which Facebook and Instagram are part of daily life, it can be easy to get sucked into the game of "getting likes" on your photos.
The problem with that is that before you know it, you're shooting images that you think other people will like instead of following your creative impulses.
So, in the new year, focus your photography on what you want, not on what you think others want.
The more you explore your photography style and your personal photography tastes, the better your photos will be and the more satisfied you'll be with the images you create.
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It's YOU That Matters, Not Your Photography Gear
I think it's safe to say that we'd all love to have a Nikon D850 or a Canon 5D Mark IV with a couple of awesome, high-end lenses to go with them, but not everyone has $5,000 or $6,000 to drop on a camera and lenses.
And that's okay, because at the end of the day, what matters most when you create a photo is YOU, not your gear.
Think about it like this...
If Ansel Adams were alive today, he could take breathtaking photos with nothing more than a smartphone.
That's what great photographers do - they rely on their photography skills and know-how to create gorgeous shots, no matter what kind of camera they're carrying.
On the other hand, a brand new photographer can have the most expensive Hasselblad or Leica camera on earth, but still take terrible photos.
If you find that your photos just aren't up to snuff, take time this year to learn new skills (and learn how to use the gear you have, too), and I promise you that you will see better results!
Learn More:
- Why Photographers Should Print on Canvas
- 8 Common Mistakes Photographers Make When Printing Their Photos
Bonus: Go Shoot With Other Photographers
I tend to be a lone wolf when it comes to shooting photos, and that's something I intend to change this year.
By shooting with other photographers, you have a sounding board for questions about photography. You also have a way to get feedback on what you're doing and the images that you take.
Beyond that, shooting with other photographers helps inspire you to create better photos.
The colors are amazing!! The quality of the wooden frame and canvas are the best I've ever seen! Don't waste your time with any other company. CanvasHQ is the best you can get! - Lee F., Nashville, TN
By seeing how other people work, how they approach the process of taking photos, and examining the photos they take, you can learn a lot about who you are as a photographer (and what you want to change).
So, with that in mind, venture to shoot with others, focus on building your skills, take photos that you want to take, and when it's all said and done, get some awesome prints of your favorite shots.
If you can do all that, you will be on the road to making 2021 your best year of photography yet!