Starting a blog can be an exciting but also equally intimidating experience. It can be hard to know where to begin, especially when it comes to taking high quality images for your blog, which are perhaps the most important aspect! That's why we're sharing our favourite basic tools to get taking stunning images fast.
1. Crop Sensor Camera
You'll hear others talking about how a full frame camera is needed and so much "better" than a crop sensor, but honestly unless you are wanting to be a professional photographer, needing huge files or printing big there really isn't a need - save your money! A basic beginner SLR crop sensor camera for simple blog images is all you will need.
I choose to have both a full frame camera, and a crop sensor camera. I use my full frame Nikon D750 camera for client work, and use my crop sensor Nikon D3300 for blog images and everyday life.
2. 35mm Lens
Depending on what your blog is about will depend on what lens will be best for you. However, a basic lens that is versatile for everyday life, portraits and flatlays is a DX 35mm lens (equal to 50mm on a full frame).
3. Tripod
A basic tripod will be needed for self-portraits, top-down photos, flat lays and so much more. I don't recommend a mini tripod, but you also don't have to spend the big bucks on a high end one. An AmazonBasics tripod will do just fine, and save you money. You may also want to consider finding a remote to make taking self-portraits easier.
4. Reflector + Diffuser
A 2 in 1 reflector + diffuser is important for improving the lighting of your images so that you can bounce more light on dark images and diffuse harsh light for an even glow.
5. White Backdrop
Depending on the style of your blog, you may want to consider purchasing a white background for a clean look to your product photos and portraits. You can also experiment with other textures, colours etc - have fun! If you're in a pinch, even bed sheets will do.
6. Lightroom
Lightroom can seem like a lot to take on at first, but it is actually pretty easy to use once you get the hang of it, and trust me it will be a big step up from Instagram filters. If you prefer to edit on your phone you can use mobile lightroom or VSCO.
There you have it, our 6 recommendations for the best basic photography set up for bloggers.
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Great list! Totally agree!