hello,
I started about 1 year and a half ago to shoot for real estate agencies. I was working as a videographer but someone asked me if I could do that for and I got into it. I started with a 5D Mk III a 14 mm L f/2.8 and a 24-105 L f/4 . I ultimately want to get the 24 mm Tilt-Shift. I was essentially doing HDR in Lightroom. The more I do it, the more I like it but I realize that my pictures are very far from what I'd like to achieve, too crispy, somehow lacking a natural feel. I now work more on Photoshop with different exposures and masks. I would like to buy a flash. What would you suggest to begin with? Yongnuo 560? What do you think is the best option on photoshop to blend exposures? I am currently doing masks but I am learning Raya pro. What do you think is the best option? Thank you very much for your advice
IMO it sounds like you're heading in the right direction. My work is mostly architectural or interiors for designers so it's been a long time since I've done pure real estate.
It's a natural progression to come to the realization that HDR software isn't going to cut it for higher end work. It's great for real estate where the fees aren't as high and you don't have all day to do your post. But eventually you will look for that beautiful, organic light that comes from mostly daylight and minimal flash. (if at all).
The 24 TS-E lens is a must for shooting interiors and represents 90% of my shots. Anybody who tells you that you can duplicate the tilt-shift look entirely in PS is full of it. There are times when your tripod will only fit in one spot but you want another POV. That can only happen with the Shift function.
I love Raya Pro and use it for all my architectural work, although lately I've been using Jimmy McIntyre's new panel, Lumi32.
One of Jimmy's most powerful tips is using smart objects for your PS layers so that you can creates better masks and then update the layer exposure again after the mask is created. It takes some practice but this single video changed my workflow overnight.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFr4AlU4Mew
Let us know how you progress and share your work as you learn.
Cheers,
I can't offer much related to architectural photography but i can give you my opinion on flash. When I looked into buying my first I couldn't justify the price of a Canon Speedlight because I was just starting out. I did a lot of research into Youngnuo and Flashpoint which is basically a rebranded Godox but interestingly had a longer warrranty than the equivalent manufacturer branded flash. Not sure if that's still the case.
I settled on the Flashpoint (Godox) brand. I have 2 flashes, receiver and transmitter. Where implemented their wireless system is interoperable throughout the line giving me the ability to add over time and not worry about connectivity and compatibility. I've had one flash for over 2 years and it's been flawless.
I agree with that assessment. I've had two FlashPoint SL-360s for a few years and have never had an issue with them. They've traveled well and taken as much abuse as the big brand monolights.