Expert: Don Wood - 7/15/2005

Question
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Followup To
Question -
I would like to know how to use digital backgrounds. I am considering starting a portable studio specializing in family portraits. I am using a Nikon N55 as my camera.
Answer -
If you are starting out I'd suggest that you start with a canvas background just to get your feet wet. Than later you can go for the digital-type backgrounds placing people in exotic locations, different type of backgrounds. I wonder if you are emphasizing the backgrounds to the detriment of your subjects. What are you envisioning with the digital background? If you are using a Nikon N55 as your camera, you are probably thinking of scanning your prints so as to use the capabilities of the digital media, your computer, to do the work of modifying the image. Removing wrinkles, red-eye, distracting backgrounds, etc. Most of the older studios have a larger camera such as a 2 1/4 x 2 1/4 or larger to get more information on the negative. I would suggest going all digital, investing in a camera such as the Nikon Coolpix 8700 or newer camera. You will need to get a large memory card for the camera since the camera will have the capability of recording 8 megs or better. Unfortunately we're talking about some big bucks here. You will need an adequate 2-3 light setup for your kit. That can cost another $1000. You've already got at least $2000 in equipment before you've taken your first picture.
Be aware that your "friends" will praise your pictures wanting you to take more "gems" but when you try to get some money out of those "gems", you will find that many of your "friends" will disappear or want the pics but will pay you next week. Bear in mind that for many people, next week will never come. You might find it necessary to do some research in the public library for portraiture. Remember that Artists and photographers are alike in using the same methods of posing the people just a change in the medium of expression. Another source are the museums (art and photography) studying the pictures with an eye to seeing how they did the posing.
Sorry to be tardy in replying but have been off-line for 4 days while I was getting a large HD installed. Then I had to reinstall all my application and data. This process is still going on.
Thanks for asking, if I can help further please ask.



I was planning on buying a chroma key then having my negatives scanned to cd and then replacing the background with a background that suits the subject. Would this be more trouble than it is worth. With this N55 should I stick with traditional cloth backgrounds? I really appreciate your help on this matter.

Answer
I would go with the digital camera. Reason is that if you are having negs scanned to cd you are adding a week or so to the turnaround. Strike while the iron is hot. After you take the pix with the digital camera, you input them into your computer, then the subjects can look at them immediately, they won't have to return with the previews to place their order. You will find that they will not buy as much as when they see them for the first time on your computer. Plus, YOU have full control of the output. I'd suggest an application like Paint Shop Pro 8 or 9 to do the work. Photoshop is nice but pricey. Again I would repeat that they will be more interested in the faces than what's behind the bg. Besides, you can always lasso the subjects, and place them in another background. You will understand what I mean when you start using the PSP program. I don't think you'd find much good with the chroma key program.
Good luck.