If you have ever been in a conversation with a professional photographer, keeping up with all the terminology they use is sometimes challenging. Don’t worry; it will be easier to follow once you understand the basics.
Every industry has its own words and phrases they use to communicate, and photography is no different.
The following are some common words and phrases used by photographers and a brief explanation of each.
Common Words and Phrases Photographers Use
Raw Files – Raw files are an uncompressed stream of data straight from a camera’s image sensor. Many photographers prefer to work with raw files, as the original data contains the most information about an image at its original resolution, allowing for more editing control.
Reprint Permissions – Reprint permissions refer to the copyright owner’s permission or license to share their images online, for print, or elsewhere. Reprint permissions ensure the images are being used with the copyright owner’s consent and is oftentimes an essential element of a photographer’s business.
Copyright – Copyright is a form of legal protection for original works of authorship, including photos, videos, and other creative works. It grants ownership rights to the creator or photographer who produced the work.
Golden Hour – The golden hour is when the sun is closest to the horizon and emits a warm, golden light. It typically occurs about an hour before and after sunrise and sunset, creating beautiful, soft lighting for photos.
Straight Out of the Camera – This phrase describes images which have not been altered. Also referred to as SOOC, these images are taken directly from a camera and are used for prints or other applications but are of a substantial file size.
Suggested Shot List – A suggested shot list describes a plan for images to captured at any photography session. It includes a variety of poses, angles, and locations a photographer or client would like to capture during the shoot.
Style – In photography, style refers to how an image is composed or created. Different photographers have different styles, from traditional portraiture to contemporary street photography. Style is often a key element in choosing a photographer for any project. At Leigh Ann Pincus Photography, I focus on relaxed, natural, candid lifestyle shots. No poses or props are needed with me. I want to capture real moments of your life as they happen.
Now that you know some of the standard photography terms, you’ll be able to discuss photography more confidently. Whether you’re a photographer or just trying to understand what your photographer is talking about, it pays to know the lingo!
Consider Leigh Ann Pincus Photography
If you are looking for a professional photographer in and around the Oakland, CA, area, be sure to contact Leigh Ann Pincus Photography for your next project. I offer a wide range of family photography services, and I’m always thrilled to answer any questions you may have about my work or the photography industry.
Please don’t hesitate to reach out today!
Leigh Ann – Your Oakland, CA, Family and Newborn Photographer, serving perfectly imperfect families. And remember, I serve families throughout the Bay Area.
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