Recent content by driver_wedge

http://ukvapers.org/Thread-Taking-better-pics-of-your-vape-gear-part-1 http://ukvapers.org/Thread-Taking-better-pics-of-your-vape-gear-part-2 There you go. I haven't really watched the video or read the tutorial, but the guy does take some decent photos on a budget.

I know this industry very well and my advice would be to use any manufacturer stock photos that are floating about. Models change so quick that it's often more hassle than it's worth to take your own pics and will be doubly hard for you with your current lack of experience and proper kit...

I don't know much about taking photos of birds, but I can't imagine swallows being very easy to get accurate focus on. I also can't comment on the quality of the camera's AF system or whether it will function fully on a lens that's higher than f/2.8 - something for you to consider and look into...

Do the manufacturers not have any stock images you can use?

Don't rush out and buy one unless you need it. I remember having the urge, but now I hate using it and rarely do. I'd rather use my little cheap 50mm f/1.8 lens and make use of whatever available light there is. Sometimes you have no choice but to use flash though.

Yes, as Ian says. It also lights your subjects from above (when bouncing off the ceiling) which creates more natural dimension for facial features and skin tones, rather than a flat paparazzi style photo. In photographic terms, it increases the size of the light source (softer light) and...

Use the 18-55, bounce the flash, shoot raw...I'd personally also shoot manual, set camera to f4-f8, 125/sec, adjust ISO as necessary and be mindful of your distance from the subjects so as to achieve good exposure. Does your flashgun have ettl?