Location photographer. Getting behind the scenes. Showing off the secret, and not so secret, treasures of the world.
CLIENT SHOWCASE: CU@Wallaroo
CU@Wallaroo. Two properties in Wallaroo, South Australia catering to large groups.
Check out the fun photo shoot we did recently...
I love my job! I have so much fun, and there is always something new on the horizon.
This job, for CU@Wallaroo was such fun - thank you so much to everyone for coming and playing 'talent' for us. You did a great job!
CLIENT: CU@Wallaroo
BRIEF: Two large group properties in Wallaroo. Range of lifestyle images showing property features and food package option.
SHOOT: 1 day over a weekend.
TALENT: Friends, social media call out, family.
CLIENT SHOWCASE: Segway Sensation SA
Such a fun morning of work. And a fun way of seeing Adelaide. Segway Sensations.
In January I had one very fun morning riding a Segway around the riverbank precinct in Adelaide. OMG, I wish you (and me for that matter) could have seen my face the first time I hopped on one and moved forward. I'm pretty sure it would have looked like a kid on Christmas morning seeing Santa had been.
After, hmm, 10 minutes, it felt like I'd been on one for years. They are easy to ride and very stable. I loved zooming around.
We followed the tour trail, stopping when I saw some great photo opps. Everyone was super cooperative and fun to work with. And Mother Nature played nice for us.
If you follow me on social media, you may have seen a little Facebook Live video I did - here is the link. The excitement in my voice says it all.
Definitely check out www.segwaysensationsa.com if you want to have a fun couple of hours seeing our city in a new light. It's fun!
Here are the pics from the morning shoot...
Tasmania - want photos?
Tasmania - I'm on my way.
Lots of photo packages available with great options. Do you want in?
'We're all going on a summer holiday,
summer holiday.'
Well, not really. But I am going with the fam to Tasmania in March/April. And I'm pumped. One whole month!
I've got a few gigs lined up, and I'd love to extend the offer to everyone. If you are in Tasmania or know someone in Tasmania, that is in need of pics (and let's face it, who doesn't NEED pics in this era of social media and online advertising), here's the deal...
My schedule -
21-27th March 2017 West Coast
28-30th March 2017 Cradle Mountain area
31st-3rd April 2017 North West, Launceston area
4-10th April 2017 Hobart, Huon Valley, Bruny Island area
11th-15th April 2017 East Coast, Launceston
16th April 2017 Devonport
Some images from my last trip...
What's in it for you?
Contra Agreements (minimal $ or free)
I am also looking for a limited number of contra agreements where available and possible. If you are a tour operator, cafe, shop or accommodation business - this is perfect for you!
Stock photography on spec
NO COMMITMENT BY YOU - I WANT STOCK PHOTOS
If you would like general images, please email me with any requests. Of course, there is no guarantee that I will be able to achieve these images, but at least I can try. :) These images will then be uploaded to my stock photography where you can purchase at really reasonable prices. Check out the 'stock photography' page at www.heidiwho.com for examples of what I've already done for people.
An example:
Goyder Council, SA
- developed a shot list and organised talent
- I organised photo shoot time
- photographed area solo and with client/talent
- the client chose images to purchase after viewing proofs
Editorial Photography Package valued at $400 (plus GST)
With this package, you receive a one-hour photo shoot and up to 20 images in print and web size via Dropbox.
The images will be retouched to an editorial standard, which means I will colour correct, ensure they are tonally beautiful and look amazing, but I won't alter the reality of the image in any way. Ie. By removing objects, blending exposures (which helps with maintaining exposure through interiors to exteriors through windows, etc.).
Check out some examples at www.heidiwhotravels.com - particularly Port Lincoln Hotel and Whyalla Caravan Park.
Assignment Photography
If you have a particular photo shoot you are after, get in touch, and we can discuss. Clients include Crowne Plaza, YHA, Seawall Apartments, University of SA, SA government departments, SA Tourism Council, SA Tourism Industry Council, Majestic Group, Yorke Peninsula/City of Marion/City of Onkaparinga councils.
Please check out my website www.heidiwho.com for my photography work and my blog www.heidiwhotravels that showcase clients, my travels, photography tips and more.
Of course, email or phone me to discuss any ideas.
Bali - my fave places
So you have never been to Bali, but think it will be crap? There is more to Bali than Kuta and it's bogans, beer parties, and 'junket' stalls.
‘Bali?! I would never want to go there. Yuck.’
Sunset Bintangs - love them anywhere in Bali.
I hear this so often, and must admit, that I once said it too. But you know what? Once you get out of the bogan filled concrete city gridlock of Tuban, Kuta, Legian and Seminyak, it can be a holiday of your dreams.
Yes, you can get some bargain deals when you stay in these areas - but I’ve learned it’s not worth it for me. If I have to walk out of my hotel, be surrounded by concrete, drunk tourists before midday, touts pestering me every second - then I’m not going to enjoy myself that much.
Love the rural side of Bali.
If I can walk out of my accommodation and be surrounded by chilled people, relaxing rice paddies or jungle and relaxed beaches, I am content - even if that does mean being awoken by the roosters at dawn. I’m happy to pay the extra.
A pool for the kids. At least they are sorted.
I love Bali because it’s close, it’s easy, has good surf, the people are beautiful, and the countryside is dreamy. My kids love it because it has pools. Wish I was that easy to please.
My first visit to Bali was in 1992. We had to walk along a road lined with rice paddies to get to Kuta from Legian, where we were staying. Since then, I have returned four times and stayed in Tuban, Legian, Sanur, Seminyak, Canggu, Menjangan and Padang Padang.
My top three are...
A deserted beach in Bali? Yes, it exists.
Canggu
You can ride a bicycle around the streets here
Echo Beach sunset chill sessions
Surfing at Old Mans
Walking deserted beaches at Berawa
Expat chilled vibe scene with funky cafes/bars/restaurants like Old Mans
Clean sand on the Bukit.
Uluwatu area
As one taxi driver commented, ‘you are staying in the jungle!’
Uluwatu cliff top bars
Surf beaches everywhere - with squeaky on the feet white sand!
It feels safe enough to ride a scooter around here
Kuta bogans don’t normally hang out around here. It’s more surfer/chilled vibe
Exploring Menjangan mangroves.
Menjangan Park
Breakfast on a deck that hangs over the tree canopies while watching monkeys trying to steal food
You get transported through the resort in open-sided double decker vans
Kayak through the mangroves
The cocktails at sunset after crashing it on the free bicycles make all pain disappear
It’s quiet, there are no shops, and there is not much to do except relax in the forest
I know this list doesn’t suit everyone, but it’s mine. It’s chilled, surfy, good for families that like a bit of adventure (and not five-star luxury). You also get half a chance to get to know some locals, make friends, rather than just highbrow it to the touts in the tourist areas.
Fears. Ignore or lean in?
Should you listen to your instincts, no matter how crazy?
I went surfing. It wasn’t the best surf, but I really wanted to get out. I tried the day before, but it was even worse. So I was adamant. But, I didn’t last long. There were only three other people out in the ocean; I got paranoid about sharks, then felt tugs at my leg rope. I’d only been in 20 minutes.
But, when I get chilled, I get out. I guess it’s listening to my instincts (even when they are irrational). I hope by doing this, I’m telling my instincts that I value them and will listen to them. It’s so important.
There is a thing about leaning into your fear. Living just outside your comfort zone. But it’s just that - ‘just’ outside of your comfort zone. A place where you may fail, but it won’t hurt too hard. Let’s live there. We will grow, experience more, learn more, live more dreams.
How do you live out of your comfort zone? Do you listen to your instincts?
What’s in store for 2017?
Have you got a busy 2017 planned? Looking at mine - it's exciting!
Welcome to 2017!
I took this photo while on a walk to The Balconies in the Grampians over our New Years travel. I love the symbolisation of endless possibility. Looking forward. Being open to new opportunities. Moving forward together. And hey, step into the unknown - leap with faith and you will find your feet. Rocky roads lead to green pastures (or in this case, trees).
I hope you had a great, and relaxing, festive break.
I had a blissful time with family and friends, camping, surfing and doing not much. Perfect. I love summer; I wish I lived somewhere that had longer summers - or maybe not so cold winters. Don’t get me wrong; I love Adelaide, but the cold weather gets to me.
What is in store for you in 2017?
I’m so excited to be here. I have lots planned for this year.
In March, I’m off to Tasmania for four weeks. I’ll be photographing for stock, shooting a few assignments, hanging out with my little ones while my hubby hikes Cradle Mountain with my dad (he’s wanted to do it since I did it a few years back), and of course, discovering and exploring as much as I can. If you want to catch up while I’m there, or want to get photos done, let me know. And of course, if you know anyone that needs pics, I’m offering the amazingly insane $400 Editorial Package. Check out some previous blog posts here for sample pics. Who wouldn't want that?!
The Philippines towards the end of April is a possibility for a business conference - although I may need to add on a few more days for some exploring!
Better Pics for Business will have another two live intakes. It’s a great way of learning, as you get the advice and support of others doing the course also. I’m keeping it open for enrolments all year, but only doing two live intakes, the first being in March. I’m enjoying helping people get their photographs looking better. The feedback from participants has been great - and I already have some extra content being added.
In 2016 I also ran a few photography workshops. I’m going to be doing more in 2017 - on food and general photography. I’ll keep you updated as I finalise details. Of course, if you have an idea for in your area, let me know.
On a personal note too...
Ashton will be starting school. It’s a very exciting time, with both kids at school now. He is so ready and loves the teacher he has been placed with. Belle will be in year two. She's not happy she has been separated from her bestie - but I know they will both be fine.
We are going to the snow! A group of friends (and families) want to go together - I think it will be a great intro for the kids, who have never seen snow. I’ve only been twice in my life - once to Mt Hotham as a child and once to Andorra as a backpacker (yep, worlds apart), so I’m just a teensy bit excited too.
My bestie also mentioned a cruise holiday. More to come here. It’s only an idea at this stage, but an awesome idea I’d love to do. If not this year, but next.
I’m going to practice surfing, salsa dancing and yoga more. My fave hobbies. Hopefully, I'll get much better! I had to laugh at myself when I saw photos from a recent Bali surf trip. I had a poo stance while holding my nose (wiping water away I'd presume). I was going to buy one, but...
New Years Resolutions and all that stuff...
Ahh, it's that time of year. Festivities followed by resolutions. Do you have new years resolutions?
So, it’s that time of year. The time of year where all the staff Xmas parties are happening, people are going on summer holidays, crazy family do’s are happening, and everyone is resetting themselves for the new year. The new year is always going to be bigger and better.
‘And this year, my new year's resolution is to...’
And how many times does it work out? Hmm. I’ve given up on new years resolutions, and instead, try and commit to an action plan that leads to goals. Goals that may not even be for realising in the coming year. Like being paid to travel - not just one or two work trips a year but holiday with the family type travel. That is a long term goal that requires lots of rungs in the ladder to reach. It’s a long ladder, but it’s one I’m prepared to climb.
Anyway, with these goals and resolutions comes all the recommendations on how to set yourself up, ready and refreshed to achieve.
Take time out.
Reflect.
Be grateful.
Spend time alone to be with your thoughts.
Work out what you want, not what others want from you.
Set goals.
Stop working and spend quality time with family and loved ones.
Oooh, that last one is a hard one for me. Sure, I stop working on Xmas day and while we are on actual holidays. But to stop working, and just relax around the home. I don’t know how. I know how to waste time procrastinating. But I want to know how to take time out properly. I mean, that is why I am here working in Victor Harbor Library while my kids are playing with their cousin at my mum's five days before Xmas.
I love my work, but I can’t let it saturate my life. I need a switch that I can turn, either down or off. Or to up the ante when I’m in procrastination mode. I’m sure that many people can agree with me - especially if you are working for yourself. That is why we are working for ourselves - we are passionate. But we have to learn to work smart - well I do. Smart, efficient and effective.
So, having said all that here is my ‘to do’ list for the end of year reflections...
Take time to reflect on my wins and write them down.
Work out what I want for the coming year then schedule them out. I have created a monthly calendar on a photo frame for 2017, on which I will write my timeline. This will live on my desk so I can see it consistently.
Relax and take days off to just be. Have fun with family, be with my thoughts, do stuff for myself.
What are you going to be doing to get ready for 2017?
The difference in retouching...
What sort of retouching is needed after a photo shoot? Do you have to have any?
So, what does a basic retouch mean?
What about an editorial retouch?
And what do I mean when I say 'extensive' retouch?
I've had many Clients ask this, and I the answer is always hard. So, I have decided to show it visually. That's the best way with photography anyway. So I think.
Above is a food photo, let me explain the differences you can see.
No retouch
This image is straight out of the camera.
I shoot in RAW. This allows for maximum information caught, and kept, in the capture. You will find most professionals photograph in this setting.
Why throw away information without even considering it? The more information I have, the better the image can be.
It does also mean that there is always going to be a need for some amount of retouch. This can range from a click of 'auto' in software which has varied, and sometimes unexpected, results or manipulated by the photographer individually. I typically start with an Auto Correct then adjust each file individually from there.
RAW = better quality
After all, that is why you are paying a photographer. To get the best images possible.
Editorial Retouch
This image has had a basic Auto Correct, then individually retouched via Lightroom.
I will lighten shadows, adjust contrast/colour/tone/crop, remove any large blemishes/distractions and adjust local areas within the image. I also sharpen/noise reduce and perhaps add some saturation/clarity/vibrancy.
Generally, an editorial image is not taken into Photoshop for more intensive retouching.
Extensive Retouch
This image is looked at in detail. It gets the Editorial Retouch then it's taken into Photoshop for individual and precise alterations.
I have fixed perspective, removed some of the reflections from the glasses, removed blemishes on the surface, lightened darker areas of the food and cropped slightly.
So, what retouch do you choose?
What retouch you choose depends on the final use of your image. We can chat about it when you book your next shoot. Or, if you have any questions, leave them here for me to answer.
Client showcase: Whyalla Caravan Park
A little sanctuary in Whyalla - an hour with Whyalla Caravan Park.
Whyalla Caravan Park - who's been? It's a quiet place, on the outskirts of town. I'd never heard of it until they called asking for one of my Editorial Packages.
As the sun was going down one day, I discovered the park. There are areas for workers, families, grey nomads and solo travellers in all sorts of accommodation. From grassy sites to villas to workers single rooms down the back.
There is a relaxed, and ultra green grassed, area right next to the bbq, perfect for lounging the afternoon away. A fire pit keeps you warm as the sun goes down.
Anyway, I worked myself silly for one hour, and here are the results... this is an Editorial Package which is a basic photo shoot and edit. Nothing weird and wonderful being enhanced here. :)
These are not advertising images where I work over them in retouch - removing all distractions, fixing light, and in fact, ensuring light is 'just right' for the shoot in the first place. We do what we can do with our one hour.
I'm pretty happy with the results - and most importantly, so is my client.
I'm heading Tasmania way in March for nearly a month - if you are down there and keen, get in touch! Or, please pass the word on. I can't wait to discover more of Tassie...
Destination photos 'on spec'
Theres more than one way to help clients... getting awesome photos with minimal fuss. Results? Pretty fantastic for everyone.
On a recent photo tour, I did photos for Goyder Council 'on spec'. We developed a shot list, the client organised talent, then we photographed. Nothing fancy - all natural light and realistic. It's the way photos should be when trying to sell a destination.
I really enjoyed the shoot, which was over two days - six hours on the first day and one hour on the second. I got to wander around, exploring different areas, popping my head into shops, taking photos of all the great things I saw. I loved the fact that people knew what I was doing so I didn't have to explain all the time or feel weird that people would be looking at me going 'what is she doing?'
This kind of shoot benefits everyone involved - I get some awesome stock photography, my client gets beautiful photos with minimal effort and the people we photograph get the opportunity to have some professional photos too.
If you are interested in having your business/area photographed, email me. I am always going places and will let you know when I'm next in your area - or we can organise a tour around your dates!
