PhotographyBanzai.com

I was recently sent a Hanji leather pen case from an ad agency that wanted me to do something with it. What better way to feature a product like this than to do a full product photography shoot? In this article, I'll walk you through the entire process, from the equipment I used to the various scenes I set up and the challenges throughout the process. The  Hanji leather pen case. The product itself is a very nice roll-up style case. On the inside, it has two different areas for pens or pencils with protective flaps at the top. There's also a zippered pouch for other small items. To keep it closed, a long leather strap wraps around the case. My goal for the photoshoot was to feature all these different aspects in the final photos. The pen case is opened. The Equipment Equipment being used for this photoshoot. Here’s the equipment I used for this photoshoot. These are B&H affiliate links. I earn from qualifying purchases! Nikon Z5 camera Nikon Z 28mm f/2.8 Nikon Z 40mm f/2 Ni...

If you are into photography or videography, you have likely faced the question: should you ask for a photo every single time at an event? A recent experience at a local Halloween market brought it into focus for me. I was there to capture the atmosphere, the feel, and the experience of this event in a documentary style. This was my first time attending this market. I also make videos highlighting photography at fun events like anime conventions. One of the buildings used at the Halloween market. For the most part, the day was filled with positive interactions. The market was filled with awesome, creative people who were more than happy to let me photograph them and their products. I made a point to ask many of the vendors for their permission to take photos of their wares, and their welcoming responses were a highlight of the event.  I rarely took photos of the vendors, but each time in that case I'd ask. This article is focusing more on photographing the products and what could al...

Today, I'm going to cover a product photoshoot I did with some Immi branded instant ramen. The company sent me the products at no cost, so just keep that in mind as we go. The plan was to take photos of the packaging and the prepared ramen, and then I'll give it a try myself and share my thoughts. The Immi "Surprisingly Healthy" Instant Ramen Variety Pack and a bag of Veggie Topping Mix. Included with the ramen was a bag of Veggie Topping Mix, which should add some nice visual interest to the final photos once the ramen is cooked. The variety pack I have is "Variety Vol. 1," (not a sponsored link) which includes three different plant-based flavors: Black Garlic "Chicken," Spicy "Beef," and Tom Yum "Shrimp." A look at the ingredient lists for Immi ramen. According to the packaging, this ramen is positioned as a healthier alternative. Some of the highlights are that it's high in protein with up to 24 grams per serving, low in ...

Wheelchair rugby! This isn't your average sport, and it's not my first time trying to capture its unique intensity through photography. This is actually the second time I've done photography at this event, the national tournament for the USWRA (United States Wheelchair Rugby Association).  It was hosted or at least partly sponsored by Oscar Mike , a great organization that you should really check out if you are curious about their efforts supporting disabled veterans. My friend is related to them and handles a lot of their photography, so he invited me along. A view of the court, ready for the intense wheelchair rugby action. This particular tournament was back in 2023. It's been sitting on my computer this long, and I haven't edited any type of video out of it, but today's the day.  A look at the USWRA National Championship schedule – a busy weekend of games! My friend that's a photographer asked me to take some photos at the event. The first time I photog...

In this article, I’ll go over a common question beginners have when they start photography: How can I get closer-up photos of my subjects? I recently saw a comment from someone who just got their first camera. They were excited but realized the lens they received couldn’t capture things up close. So, let’s break down what that means and how to address it.  Understanding Reproduction Ratio One of the key specifications to look at when figuring out how close you can get to your subject is the lens's reproduction ratio, also known as magnification ratio. This is typically represented as 1:1 (or 1x) for life-size magnification, while a ratio like 1:2 or 0.5x indicates less magnification. Both formats represent the same concept.  Part of the comment I had seen. For example, if you want to capture close-up details of a subject, you need to consider the reproduction ratio of the lens you're using. Kit Lenses and Their Limitations The Sony mirrorless kit lens. Let’s start with the bas...