Can The iPhone 11 Pro Max Replace Your DSLR?

April 16, 2020 in Camera Review, DIY Photography

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Can the camera in your pocket replace your DSLR?

The iPhone 11 Pro Max is a phenomenal phone that boasts an impressive camera. One of the best cameras compared to other smartphones in the market.

There’s a saying that the best camera is the one you have on you all the time, your phone's camera. This doesn’t make sense when you see new DSLR cameras coming out daily. If the best camera is the one in my pocket, why is the camera business still booming? The best camera to shoot with is whatever you can afford. You have to make do with what you have. With strides to invest in better if you decide photography is for you. For now, if you only have an iPhone start with that. But, if you have a DSLR, like the Sony A7III, I would suggest shooting with that.

I hate when photographers tell you to shoot with your iPhone when they shoot their work with expensive cameras.

To put an iPhone camera to the test. I wanted to test the capabilities of the new iPhone 11 during a fashion shoot. Figure out if it can be a replacement for a DSLR in a pinch and what benefits you have when shooting with your phone. Here are some insights I learned:

Model in Sweater iPhone 11 Pro Max Photo

No Learning Curve

When it comes to smartphones there is no learning curve. You can pick up your phone and take a decent picture without much skill. Without knowing photography basics.

Yet, this can be a pro and a con. As the iPhone has limitations when it comes to manual functions and how you want an image to look.

There's an iPhone Workaround

One great addition to the new lineup of iPhones is the portrait mode. With portrait mode, you can add a blurry background to your image. With the ability to adjust the aperture after you take the photo. This is cool because I love shooting portrait mode for selfies and when shooting around the city. This isn’t a replacement for a fast lens and a DSLR. Due to the automatic way it applies a blurry background the results aren't perfect. This is still a great step in getting a quality iPhone photo.

Model with Trench iPhone 11 Pro Max Photo

iPhone has Good Dynamic Range

When it comes to the dynamic range the iPhone shines. It might be a better choice when shooting in areas with strong highlights and shadows. For example when you’re shooting under an awning and there’s harsh sunlight coming through. Situations where with a DSLR camera you would have to fix it in post. With underexposing or bracketing the exposure. The iPhone has a smart HDR. So it can analyze an image and create a balanced image.

Final Thoughts

This isn’t a replacement for a good DSLR camera with an amazing dynamic range. Yet, it will save you when you’re shooting in harsh lighting conditions. In those times when your friend wants a photo and your DSLR isn't around.

Watch the Video: iPhone 11 vs Sony A7III [Best Smartphone Camera 2020]

Products mentioned in this post:

iPhone 11 Pro Max

Sony A7III

Tamron Lens

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P.S. If you’re interested to see all the equipment we shoot with head to our Gear Page.

3 Photography Tips for Better Backgrounds

August 29, 2019 in DIY Photography

Raw image of model in front of white wall

In Los Angeles, locations and studios can get expensive. If you’re a new photographer or a seasoned one it can get discouraging trying to find places to shoot. Especially when the clients don’t understand the value. I know that you get tired of going outside, but when it’s all you have, it’s better to shoot than not at all. We did a shoot with the Sony A7III with the Sony FE 24mm 1.4 G Master lens and used all free outside locations to capture images. All the photos in this post are raw images.

Here are the top tips in getting better backgrounds for your photos:

Textures

When looking for a place to shoot your model pay attention to colors and textures. See how it flows with the model’s wardrobe. Often you can find cool textures on walls and garage doors. What you’ll find is, you get a background that looks more stylized and less like you took a photo in front of a blank wall. For our shoot, we decided to add a bit of texture by placing a sheet on a couple of light stands. This brought a whimsical aesthetic to the images. When we moved it around it created a texture. You can do this with any fabric.

When walking around outside, don’t be afraid of ugly corners or the appearance of rust, wood, or concrete. If you play around with these areas you can often get cool photos. I always say, take the shot and if it doesn’t work move on. But sometimes these places will surprise you.

Lighting

When working with your model think about lighting. As we’ve mentioned before you don’t always get the luxury of a golden hour or studio. When working outside watch how the light hits trees, walls, lamp posts. You can use shade to create cool angles in your shot. Slivers of light through trees can create cool shadows around your model. All photographers will shoot in harsh light sometimes. You can find soft light by placing models under a tree or in the shaded spot of a building. Pay attention to shadows to create composition and artistic choices for backgrounds.

Raw Image of model in a field next to bush.

Raw Image of model in nature sitting on tree stoop.

Interactive Backgrounds

Give your models something to do. This will allow them to move with purpose and tell a story. For our shoot, we had the model play around with the sheet we placed on light stands. This added a flirty vibe to the photos, like a perfume ad. Likewise, when shooting outside we had the model interact with the plant and flowers around her as a prop. We found a stump that was perfect for the model to sit on and pose. I’ve seen photographers take awesome photos using shopping carts, food, sunglasses, etc.

If you’re working with an amateur model using props will make them get comfortable. Look for stairwells, plants, rails and places the model can lean against or touch work great.

Watch the Video Photography Tips for Better Backgrounds:

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P.S. If you’re interested to see what equipment we shoot with head to our Gear page.

iPhone vs DSLR

June 10, 2019 in DIY Photography

As a beginner photographer, you feel required to invest in DSLR cameras and equipment. Before you make a big investment start with your smartphone. If you have an iPhone you can begin taking photos and practicing the basics of photography. We did a fashion shoot using our Sony A7III DSLR and iPhone X to compare them. Continue reading to get tips on shooting professional fashion photos with your iPhone.

1. Optimal Settings

Every smartphone has settings within the camera function. You don’t know they’re there unless you play around with it. When checking your phone’s camera make sure settings are set for the best quality. With the iPhone X go into the camera settings and make sure you have these boxes checked:

Smart HDR on the main settings menu.
Most compatible in the Formats section.

The reason for this is the iPhone tends to try to compress images to save space on your phone. So when you check these boxes the files will be bigger but higher quality. If you begin using your iPhone to capture high-quality photography. Make it a habit to clear storage up by deleting photos often.

2. Feed it Light

Lighting is a recurring theme for photography. It will separate your photos from being amateur to being high caliber. You’re using the iPhone so you will need to feed it light. The camera on this phone has a small sensor so you have to shoot at the right time of day. This will help avoid low light shots. I find that when shooting in low light the iPhone image breaks apart in detail. We used natural light for our shoot. When showing it to friends they couldn't tell which images were iPhone and DSLR.

3. Learn Composition

As a beginner shooting with an iPhone can be a great way to learn about composition. The iPhone has its shining components. It has Smart HDR to read a scene and adjust exposure. A feature that's not available to DSLR’s without post-production. This gives the iPhone the impression of more dynamic range than a DSLR. Even as a professional photographer, limitations can be a great way to spice up your photography. Next time you’re shooting. Capture a few photos on your iPhone or smartphone and see the results you get. Challenge yourself to get stellar photos regardless of equipment.

Watch The Full Video on the iPhone vs DSLR:

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How to Take Product Photos

January 02, 2019 in DIY Photography

Product photography has become more popular lately with the boom in social media. You’ll find small companies dominating with stylized images of their products. You’ll also see lifestyle bloggers making every meal look like the cover of Bon Appetite. Capturing product photos can be a lot of fun. Whether you’re a small company or a photographer that wants to expand their portfolio. There are some tips that can help make your product photos shine.

For our product photography shoot, we worked with our client Seabold Ginger Beer. They make tasty ginger beer in the Los Angeles area. For this shoot we used our Sony A7 III with the Tamron 28-75mm.

Here are the tips for capturing eye-catching product photos. These tips can enhance your Instagram and website.

PROPS

To stand out with product photos you have to have a great arsenal of props. This helps because you won’t always have the budget to include a prop stylist. It’s doesn’t have to break the bank to start a collection of props. I’m proud of our prop collection because it’s a mixture of home good stores, thrift stores, and unique finds. Always keep your eyes open when it comes to props. Look for items that will work many times and in different settings. When it comes to storing props we keep them in stackable containers in the garage. So, you should be able to find a space to keep your props. Don’t forget to use plants or flower bouquets that will add life to your shoot.

NATURAL LIGHT

Natural light is always your best friend when it comes to photography. This tip is especially important for small business owners that aren't professional photographers. This will make your photos look more polished if you're working as your own photographer. When it comes to natural light it can add a clean look to your photos. Also, it can create dimension. Pay attention to how the light filters through the windows. See how you can use that to enhance your shot, add shadows and create depth. To add an extra pop, you can use a strobe light with a soft box to soften the light. This helped us in shooting the bottles and trying to eliminate some of the reflection on the glass.

TEXTURES, COLORS AND BACKGROUNDS

To bring flavor to your shots make sure to play around with textures. Use contrasting colors, interesting surfaces or unique backgrounds. When scouting around your home, or location. Look for spaces that might have texture or bring a unique element to your photos. Sometimes you have to look past the obvious and dig deeper. To enhance flat lays: use layers, saucers, plates, and placemats. One of my favorite ways to add color is to buy foliage before the shoot. I get leaves, baby’s breath, anything to throw in the corner or background. A plus with foliage is it lasts a long time and looks good even when it dries out a bit.

In conclusion, with any shoot, it’s always a good idea to find some references. Pay attention to what other brands are doing so you can see what props, textures, and colors they do. This will help you find the perfect style for you and your brand.

Watch our Full Video on How To Take Product Photos:

What are your tricks for shooting product photos?

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Best Zoom Lens For Sony

November 12, 2018 in DIY Photography

We’re on the hunt for the best zoom lens for the Sony Alpha Cameras. Especially our favorite camera, the Sony A7 III. The two lenses we decided to test are the Canon 24-70mm 2.8 and the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8. We enjoyed using both of these lenses. Keep reading to see the head to head comparison.

SIZE & WEIGHT

The Canon 24-70mm 2.8 is heavier and bulkier compared to the Tamron 28-75mm F2.8. The build quality is sturdier and it feels more professional. It’s about 805 grams, compared to the Tamron which weighs in at 510 grams. The Tamron is more plastic feeling, I wouldn’t say it’s cheap though. But it’s definitely lesser build quality than the Sony. Both lenses look professional. I actually prefer the looks of the Tamron over the Canon.

AUTOFOCUS

The Canon lens on the Canon 1DX handles autofocus better than the Tamron 28-75mm. In photography modes, you won’t have any problems with either lens’ focusing. But, if you plan on shooting fast motion or sports photography, go with the Canon 24-70mm. It handles burst modes better.

IMAGE QUALITY

Both lenses have stellar image quality. At F2.8 they are both sharp lenses. The Tamron 28-75mm is a tad bit sharper but it’s actually hard to tell. As both lenses have great contrast and sharp optics. I will say, the Tamron does vignette more than the Canon. Keep that in mind.

BOKEH

Excited to have an affordable zoom lens for the Sony A7III. Until now our options were either shoot F/4 lenses or adapt Canon or 3rd party lenses to the Sony cameras. The Tamron is F2.8 which creates awesome bokeh. I’m excited about not having to spend that extra money on adapters or buying the expensive G Master Sony lenses. But the Canon and the Tamron bokeh is comparable and beautiful. The bokeh is delicious.

My favorite lens out of these two is the Tamron. It’s affordable, gives good quality and it’s lightweight. When you’re traveling those are the best points you can have in a lens.

Watch our Full Video on the Best Zoom Lens For Sony:

What do you think is the best lens for Sony?

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Canon 1DX Mark II vs Sony A7 III

November 01, 2018 in DIY Photography, Camera Review

For our latest camera comparison, we put the Canon 1DX up against the Sony A7 III. Let’s start with the dynamic range. It’s great on both cameras. The Sony A7 III has 15 Stops of DR. While the Canon 1DX has 13 Stops of DR. If you’re not experienced with color grading you might have a problem dealing with Sony Log footage. When it comes to obtaining Dynamic Range. The Sony has many options when it comes to Log Profiles for Color Grading. The 1DX Mark II doesn’t have flat color profiles for grading. But, if you hack the camera, you can access them.

SKIN TONE

When it comes to skin tones Sony Cameras aren’t usually praised. Yet, the Sony A7III has stepped up their game with new color science. Which makes the A7 III better than previous Sony Alpha Cameras. Yet, out of the box the Canon 1DX produces better skin tones in camera. One trick around this for Sony Alpha Shooters is to buy EOS PRO Color. I’ve found that with these color profiles, you lose a little dynamic range. Gaining a better highlight roll off and better skin tones.

AUTOFOCUS

Both cameras perform well when it comes to autofocus. The Canon 1DX working better when it comes to tracking in-video modes.

VIEWFINDER

The Canon 1DX has an optical Viewfinder so that can be hard for video in bright situations. As you have to look at the screen to watch the video. The Sony A7 III screen is not the best quality. But I find the viewfinder awesome when shooting photography and Video.

CODEC

The Sony A7III has more options when it comes to video codecs and more usability in post production. The A7III files are smaller and easier to edit or create proxy files.

The Canon 1DX has huge files when it comes to video, about 30 minutes of footage is around 128GB. So memory cards are going to fill up fast. This is due to the camera using motion JPEG. I know a lot of people like the quality it produces. But a lot of professionals think it’s a huge pain, especially the processing power it takes to edit these files.

Watch our Full Video on the Canon 1DX Mark II Vs Sony A7 III:

I still prefer my Sony A7III over the Canon 1DX though it has some wonderful features.

What do you think of this camera comparison?

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How To Shoot Male Models

October 19, 2018 in DIY Photography

How to shoot male models. We’ve gone over how to shoot a lot of amazing female models from glamour to lingerie. In this tutorial, we’ll tackle how to capture male models. You’ll find that it’s as fun and that you can play around with different aspects of photography. We shot our male model with the Sony A7III. Our favorite camera in the game right now. Here are some tips when shooting male models.

DON’T BE AFRAID OF HARSH LIGHT

When it comes to shooting we usually tell you to stick to natural light to have a soft look on your models. That’s perfect when working with female models. When working with males you can also use natural light. But, if the sun is glaring don’t be afraid to use harsh light. This can add a sharpness to your model. Highlighting his jawline and giving a more rugged aesthetic. This look might not always be great for a glamour shoot. But it will be cool to help your male models look badass.

POSING

When it comes to male models it’s good to have a few go-to poses that they can do. To loosen them up in front of the camera. It’s a good idea to have movement added to the shoot. You can do this by having the model move around, pretend box, take the jacket on and off. In this shoot, we even used an empty box of cigarettes to add movement. The great thing about male models is the ability to have them put a hand in a pocket if needed. Find ways to add movement and it will bring your photos more life.

EXPERIMENT WITH LOCATION

When shooting with male models don’t be afraid to experiment with location. Since you don’t have to rely on natural light as much. You can find places that are darker that can add cool shadows to your shot. This will give your photos a dark and moody flare. Also, bonus tip is to have a good battery operated light you can travel with. This can allow you to play with locations that might seem too dark to use. We find alleys, wire fences, parking garages, and alleys are great backdrops. They're places to use harsh light and experiment with location.

Watch our Full Video on the Shooting Male Models:

What are some tips you have for shooting male models? Let us know!

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Top 3 Glamour Photography Tips

September 12, 2018 in DIY Photography, Camera Review

We’ve been having a good time playing with the new Sony A7 III. Recently used it during a glamour photography shoot and wanted to give top tips on how to pull off this style on a budget. We used the Sony 24-70mm F/4 Zeiss to see how it works in a different shooting environment. My Tamron 28-75mm F/2.8 should be coming any day. Can’t wait to do a head to head lens comparison when it does. We’ll have a chance to see which is the better lens for the Sony A7 III.

In the meantime, here are the top three tips when shooting Glamour Photography.

WARDROBE

It’s easy to think glamour and thinks diamonds, vintage fur coats, and long gowns. Which are glamorous but you see how our bank account works. We have to find a way to be glamorous on a budget. You have to walk the line between gaudy and high fashion. Meaning, it’s best to find one flashy statement and make it the focus of your shoot. Even downplaying it a bit. Pay attention to trends, it’s good to have at least one high fashion magazine in your arsenal. You want to study before you jump into this style. Since too many accessories or the wrong clothing can come off as cheesy. Don’t think you have to break the bank on wardrobe and accessories. A lot of the fast fashion companies (F21, H&M) copy from high-end designers.

IMPROVISE WITH LIGHTING

We planned on shooting with backdrops and strobes. Going for a studio look. I even shot a few images that came out great. But, in the middle of shooting, I decided I’d rather go outside and find a location. I felt that the model would do better in a natural environment. You have to be okay with changing your initial decisions. I loved my studio shots and the ones I got in different outside locations. When it comes to lighting, don’t be afraid to scratch an idea completely and move on instinct. Sometimes it’s best to improvise and plan new ideas.

WORK WITH NEW MODELS

Working with experienced models is great. But there is something genuine about working with new talent and watching them rise. I find that there is a lot of untapped talent out there. You have to look. It’s easy to find the model that has thousands of followers. But you’ll find models with great looks that have less. Where you can create great work with less pressure. These models are looking for content and are great to bounce ideas off of. That doesn’t apply to models. Work with new people when it comes to all creatives once in a while. It’s nice to get a fresh perspective on the industry.

To Recap:

When you’re shooting glamour, make sure you pick the right wardrobe that’s simple and not too gaudy.
Make sure you experiment with different styles of lighting. To get different looks and different moods.
Don’t be afraid to venture to new fresh faces when booking your shoot.

Watch our Full Video on the Best Tips for Glamour Shots w/ Sony A7 III:

Can the camera in your pocket replace your DSLR?

No Learning Curve

There's an iPhone Workaround

iPhone has Good Dynamic Range

Final Thoughts

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

Thanks for Reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

What are your tricks for shooting product photos?

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

What do you think is the best lens for Sony?

Let us know!

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

What do you think of this camera comparison?

Let us know!

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

DON’T BE AFRAID OF HARSH LIGHT

POSING

EXPERIMENT WITH LOCATION

What are some tips you have for shooting male models? Let us know!

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM

WARDROBE

IMPROVISE WITH LIGHTING

WORK WITH NEW MODELS

To Recap:

What are some tips you have for Glamour Photography? Let us know!

Thanks for reading!

LIVE ART LOVE TEAM