Episode 96: How to Take Your Own Photos of Your Products with Hallie MacPherson
Lauren Tilden:
Welcome back to Making Good, the podcast for small businesses who want to make a big impact. I'm your host, Lauren Tilden. And this is episode 96. I love hearing from listeners of this podcast for so many reasons, but one of the big ones is that you have such fantastic topic requests. Today's episode is one of those requests. My guest today is my friend, the amazing Hallie McPherson, a super talented photographer and also the owner of Soule Candles. We're talking all about how to take great photos of your products or even yourself all by yourself.
But before we get into the episode, I have one thing to chat with you about first, and that is Making Good Happen. So what is Making Good Happen? One thing I know all too well is that it's one thing to learn the things that will help our businesses thrive. And it's another thing entirely to actually take the actions we need to take. It's the action that changes things for us, not the learning by itself. And that's what Making Good Happen is all about. Making Good Happen is a monthly membership designed to help you custom build a marketing plan for your business. And more importantly, to take the steps necessary to actually see the results you dream of. Making Good Happen includes a private members only podcast called Making Good Happen. There'll be short and sweet episodes every weekday ranging from mini pep talks to journaling prompts to action items. It includes deep work sessions, so these are kind of like co working on Zoom but with no video or audio to minimize distraction, and includes guided monthly marketing plan creation, an online community of other like minded small business owners, accountability tracking of your most important deadlines, guest expert presentations each month and more. And so that we can all kick off 2022 with a bang Making Good Happen as officially launching the first Monday in January, January 3 2022. If you want to start 2022 with an intentional strategic marketing plan that you actually execute, come hang out with me and some other really amazing small business owners in making good happen.
Speaking of other amazing small business owners, I wanna gush a little bit about some of the folks we have signed up already, which includes today's guest Hallie, we have jewelry makers, candle makers, makeup artists, live event services, photography, accessories, paper goods, calligraphy and so much more. If you have a creative business you want to take to the next level by consistently taking marketing action. Join us in Making Good Happen. The doors to Making Good Happen will be open until December 31 and then I'll be closing them for a while so I can focus 100% on the members who sign up in this first round. I have some fun bonuses in store for those of you who get signed up before January, so if you're interested if this is a great time to join. If you know you're ready to join us head to makinggoodpodcastcom/MGH to sign up. And if you want an email sent to you with all the details you can head to makinggoodpodcast.com/happen I can't wait to work with you inside of Making Good Happen.
Okay, so let's talk about today's episode. As I said, My guest today is Hallie McPherson. How he is the photographer behind Hallie Katherine photography, as well as the maker and business owner behind Soule Candles. Both of these businesses are united by Hallie's commitment to empowering women something she does so incredibly well. She also offers branding photography to small businesses to help them create and maintain a cohesive brand through beautiful photography. As both a professional photographer and someone who owns her own product based business, Hallie is the perfect person to have this conversation around product photography with.
In our conversation we discussed why product photography is important. What makes good product photography, what basic tools we need to DIY our own photos, how to optimize your lighting and positioning, Hallie's recommendations for editing your photos, and how to take photos for yourself. We also discussed what it's like to work with a professional photographer and how Hallie approaches running multiple businesses. I loved her answer here. A lot of this conversation is focused on product photography. But if you're a service based business owner, I think there's a lot of good stuff in here for you too. First of all, behind the scenes, photos of your work and your process are super interesting, even if you work behind your computer. Trust me. Hallie's tips about product photography can apply to any physical items you're taking photos of whether it's something you sell or not. Second, we also discuss how to take photos of yourself which might be something you're interested in doing. Hallie really doesn't hold back her expertise in this episode. She shares so many super actionable tips and tricks that you can apply to your business today. I can't wait for you to listen to it. Here it is.
Hallie Welcome to Making good.
Hallie MacPherson:
Thanks, Lauren. I'm so happy to be here.
Lauren Tilden:
I am so so so excited about this episode. This is one of those episodes where I'm kind of practicing what I preach like listen to your ideal customers. Listen to your audience and my audience and listeners of this podcast. And people in my Facebook group have been asking about product photography for a while. And I just haven't gotten around to it until now. And now that I have and I've sort of asked people like, what questions do you have about taking product photos or photos of yourself or whatever it is? There are so many questions, and people are like, this is definitely a pain point for people figuring out how to get good photos of their products at different budget points from like doing it yourself to maybe outsourcing it. So, so excited about this episode. Before we get into all the nitty gritties, though, I would love for you to introduce yourself and your businesses. I know you have two businesses, and just talk a little bit about your path to doing what you do now.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so my name is Holly, I go by Holly Katherine photography, usually, I have been doing photography for probably seven years. And I studied it in college, but started in high school, just photographing friends, we would just go hang out, bring a camera. And that's, I guess what started my passion for it. I've always just been shooting. And then once I started in college, I realized that there were so many other pathways to go down with it. And I, I still haven't necessarily chosen but what I love to do is photograph women, one on one, and have that like, moment where I like we just work together to empower them in front of the camera, because I've been in a position where it wasn't that empowering.
Lauren Tilden:
Oh my gosh, and I just have to interject into your intro and say, Hallie took photos of me for a conference she put on that I was invited to speak at. And the experience of taking photos with her was so fun. And like I am someone who's like, self conscious in front of the camera. Usually I don't really like having my photo taken. I said this to her recently, it's just such a good example of like, almost like an easy to overlook way of really making a positive impact is like, you know, she's working with a client one on one, like making them feel so comfortable. So awesome. So empowered, like you said, so I just like as on the other end of that, like wanting to reinforce what an amazing job you do. Yeah. Such a magical like skills I have. So anyway, go on.
Hallie MacPherson:
No, thank you. Yeah, I, I guess I kind of harnessed it from interning with a photographer, where I went to high school in Idaho. So she was always about women empowerment and positivity, and just bringing, like a really, really great attitude to the shoot. And that is, honestly what makes the whole difference. So I used to be the most shy girl growing up really, really shy, like, and now I, I probably don't come off that way I come out, come off, as you know, open and bubbly and like wanting to get to know you because I genuinely do now and I think like photography in that way has really shaped me to be who I am today, which is really cool.
Lauren Tilden:
That's awesome. And then, one thing I love about the fact that you have two businesses is that they are both super different. One is a service based business. One is a product based business. But they're so tied together by like, kind of the mission that you're just talking about, about female empowerment. So will you share a little bit about your product, your candle business?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, absolutely. So in 2020, I started making candles as a little quarantine hobby. And I kind of had in mind, I was like, I'm gonna photograph these and I think these are so cool. Like, I was just so jazzed about the idea, I wanted to share them. So candles are the candles of the feminine body, and in all different shapes and sizes, and I hope to continue new sizes and, and shapes to bring more inclusivity to that space. Both of the my businesses overwhelmingly like talk to women and bring in that feminine audience. Which, you know, I think is always a good thing. And we can always be more empowered, especially when like, as a woman myself, you know, I know what it feels like sometimes so.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, so great. And it's kind of hard to put her candles to words. So like we'll link them in the show notes so you can go check them out while you're listening. They're so beautiful. And like, yeah, just all body types there. They just like celebrate women in such a great way. So I love these candles, we carry them on Station Seven. So big fan. Okay, so I feel like the fact that you are both a photographer and a product based business owner makes you the perfect person to talk to about this question and product photography because, you know, like exactly what you use your product photography for, as you know, like on your website, or your socials or whatever it is. And also, you're a pro. So I am just delighted to get to pick your brain about this. So let's start really broad. Why is product photography so important?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, when I was thinking about this, I, I guess I noted down to photography, photography being kind of the baseline of a brand. I mean, considering yeah, there's, you know, fonts and colors, but I think photography, it brings brand awareness to a business or a product that you can't find anywhere else, because it's the real thing, right? It's a photo of the thing that you're selling, or the thing that you make, or that you're trying to like show off to the world. So in my opinion, like if I'm scrolling through Instagram, or a website, and I look at the photos, and they're, they're like, Okay, average, and sure I have a very like nitpicky eye for these kinds of things. But if they're kind of subpar, like I'm gonna think your product is a little subpar. So in that respect, like, I think product photography should match, like your insides to how you made made the product to the outside of it, because I know it takes like, so much time, effort, skill, to like honing your craft and make your make your thing, whatever it is. So it's important to match that to your photography and how you're like showing up in your brand and showing it off to the world.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, yeah. So that's a great answer. And I feel like it's so easy not to take good photos, for example, like I'm sitting in my office, and I'm looking at this beautiful arrangement of dried and preserved flowers. And they're, like, so lovely and warm. And like, I just love having them on my desk. But I know if I were to take a photo of them right now, like it would not, because I don't really know what I'm doing, I like, it would not capture it, you know. And so I think what you're saying, what I'm taking away from what you're saying is like most people listening probably make a really amazing thing. Like they have an amazing product or skill or art. And in the flesh, it is one thing, but it's actually not that easy to like, represent that, you know, as good as it is we're not trying to make things look better than my arts just take photos is like surprisingly challenging. So, right, love this. So let's talk about that a little bit. Like how to good product photos. What's the difference between good product photos, and like you say subpar ones?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, I guess as a whole, like, in building your brand and business. Good photos are like cohesive, you know, like I work with And Darlin a lot and, and I think whatever brand it is, like I want to be scrolling through my feed and be like, Oh, that that looks like a picture from and And Darlin. And I think bring that to your bringing that idea forward is important in this case, because in order to grow or like build brand awareness, like I'm saying is like, people need to recognize you. So, you know, it's like standing out from the crowd a little bit. Good product photos, have good lighting, positioning, framing and balance. Because if people are looking at an image or taking in all this visual stimuli, if we understand it or not, so, for example, if I have a candle and it looks like a very cold, like colored image or it's gonna feel off, like because candles may give off light.
Lauren Tilden:
I think we're gonna spend probably most of our conversation talking about how people can take their own photos and we will talk a little bit about working with a photographer for the end. But starting from the point of I am a maker, I don't have any like, know, how, when it comes to photography, I'm going to be taking my own product photos. Let's start with like, what kind of basic equipment and tools would you suggest that people try to get their hands on? At like a very low budget? Like level?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah. So there's a lot you can do. Low budget, I mean, probably what you're listening on right now your phone probably takes good enough photos. And if you're in a house, you're in an apartment, you have a window. And so that's what I would go, I would go sit by the window with my phone, kind of think about the lighting in the space and look for maybe a little alcove or a little spot that gets more like diffused light. And when the sun you know, like hits directly in a spot, it can be, that's like a whole nother world of lighting and technique, which is important and fun. And especially if you have like a bold brand or something that that makes sense to use, like really harsh shadows and like, harsh light. But what works, the best I think for anything would be more like soft diffused light from the window. Yeah, and this, that's just essentially shade, but like not right on the shade line.
Lauren Tilden:
Mm hmm. Okay, so we have our smartphone, a window and like looking for a spot where the light is more diffuse or softer. Or even like I'm looking or both than this, or we're usually both in the Seattle area here and Idaho right now. But at least in Seattle, it's like a very kind of cloudy, but like bright cloudy day, so I feel like that would be a good light.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, that would. And even even if it's gray in Seattle, that light still works great too, surprisingly.
Lauren Tilden:
Okay, that's good to know, for all the gloomy weather listeners that we might have. So, you know, we hear a lot of people talking about things like light boxes, or like boards and backing boards. What other kind of tripods like, equipment? What about that kind of stuff? Is that just kind of like, we don't need to worry about that when we start out? Or what would you say there?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so I guess it really depends on like, the size of your objects as well. Light boxes are great, I just did a quick look and they range from probably like $30 to like $130. So I haven't done much look into it, but I'm sure you could find something for a reasonable price. I mean, considering you're going to be using that quite a bit. If your product you know, like fits in the little box.
Um, but what I have found actually, is that what works great for like a little backdrop our floor tiles from Lowe's. They I got, I got marble looking ones. And either probably a foot by a foot or something. And I just got two so I put one down and one against a wall. So it kind of looks like a countertop. And honestly, I've been going to that more than my like white paper setup, classic photographer, like setup. I've been using that a lot more because it's really, it's reliable, it's really quick to set up. And you don't have to like, yeah, you just think about where it is in position to the window. It's not a big, not a big like process because it stores pretty easily too.
Lauren Tilden:
So let's talk about that positioning to the window. So when, if the light sources from the window, what we want like the backdrop you're saying to be like directly opposite?
Hallie MacPherson:
Great question. In photography, we're always looking for the most natural light and if we think of the most natural light source, that's the sun, so if we're inside, directly speaking, I would say put the angle, the setup, that is that the light is coming in from a side angle. Okay, because I have actually tried this with my candles, I put direct facing light right from the window, straight onto the backdrop. And when you're shooting, you get in the middle and you get some funky shadows and you can it's also just light that is not flattering on the body or like a product especially like my products being the body right. So angling it to the side made the shadows fall in different ways that looked more natural even. Because it was kind of acting like the sun, right?
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah. Yeah. And really love the recommendation to get floor tiles from Lowe's or hardware store instead of like, you know, I always get targeted for these like super fancy, like backgrounds and backdrops like.
Hallie MacPherson:
Oh, yeah, me too.
Lauren Tilden:
I'm like, good. I don't need to buy that. Yeah. What about composition? So this is something that I feel like I struggle with is, you know, you see all these, like, really beautiful flatlays or the way that you take photos, specifically of Miranda's jewelry, it's like so beautifully arranged, and I just feel like I would have no idea where to start when it comes to putting something like that together. So what kind of tips do you have for assembling a photo that is more than just, you know, white backdrop and single products?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, great question. I only started doing flatlays. You know, this year when I started working with Miranda, so there was a lot of trial and error. I think the one of the biggest things I found is that going to Goodwill and grabbing like some fabrics or textiles that go with your brand. So if you're still unsure of like what your brand is, I would say go to the pillowcases, or like find some curtains that are like either beige, white, or cream in that color scheme because that'll always make whatever you're shooting just look like classic and more expensive. Honestly, it'll make it look like this was, like this was intended.
So yeah, what makes a photo? I mean, if you just put a piece of jewelry on a white background, it's a little it. Yeah, sure can look nice. But you can also make it feel a little softer by adding a little cloth or like, you know a little, what did I say? a pillowcase and kind of ruffle it up in the background lay the piece of jewelry on it. Or what I also look for are glass dishes, or like white dishes. I know in the white, beige and cream kind of color palette is where I work a lot. So I just am constantly looking for little pieces, the size or size that's comparable to my product to be in a photo. So when I'm for example, shooting flatlays, for And Arlin the ones you see on the Instagram, like there were probably three, three or more like little setups before that came to be because as I'm shooting I'm like constantly reevaluating the balance of the products in the image image or the little, the little accessories that are kind of like help telling the story of the product image. Mm hmm. Yeah.
Lauren Tilden:
yeah, I'm looking at one right now. I'm just, as you're talking, scrolling through her feed and Miranda owns And Arlen, she's a jewelry company. And so if you want to see these photos that we're talking about, her Instagram account is and dot Arlen A, R L E M. So I feel like one of these is actually, like this, there's this pair of earrings that look like they might be like the studs are going through tissue paper. Is that right?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah.
Lauren Tilden:
So it looks so beautiful. And it's just like, I feel like I'm really glad to be talking to someone who is able to take such amazing like professional photos using really accessible items and materials like so, we've talked about floor tiles from a hardware store, textiles from like Goodwill, and like crumpled up tissue papers and a bunch of these and it looks so great. Yeah, that's so fun. I also see some like crystals and seashells. Okay, so asking for a friend. Just kidding asking for me. What if your brand is like really, really colorful? Like? Yeah, so I think I'm seeing a lot of really great examples for more kind of like earthy organic like natural neutrals. Do you have any ideas for people who, like me, we're more towards like louder, branding?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, absolutely. I don't think of this as too different, I guess because like, for example, the jewelry is very earthy and nature, right. And so I'm just complementing that by adding, you know, like natural elements like crystals or, you know, humble materials like paper, like small textiles, that are like in that, in that beige cream color, color palette. So I think approaching a brand that's like louder in color, I wouldn't necessarily change it up that much. Maybe I might add in more, I think I wouldn't add as much in a different way, because your product is already going to be so much more colorful, and that and that's what we're highlighting. So that would pop even more off of like a lighter or like, creamier background. But if it was like a special, like event that you wanted to really like holidays, right? If you wanted to, like really add in like, like red or like sparkles or like something louder, I say do it and, and just be aware of the balance in the image, like if you're going to add in, you know, like a bright red fabric, for example, as like a little tossed background with, you know, like a candy cane or, I mean, whatever the holidays, or, like glitter. I think that is like that is still so cool. But be aware that like that's gonna read really differently. And the product that you add in for the main like subject of the photo needs to be, like, equally as loud as that background.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, such a good point to like, remember what the point is, which is promote your product and not like whatever else. Someone asked a question in the Facebook group about styling photos. So they were wondering, kind of like, should I style my photos? She also has a jewelry company, the person who asked, should she style them? Or is that just like, distracting? And should it just be like white background with products? What are your thoughts on this? I mean, obviously, we've talked a lot about styling, so I have a little bit of a feeling but what would you have to say to her?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, that's a good question. I think, honestly, if you have the time to do both, is probably worth it. Like product imagery, on their product page, on the Products page. I think it's important to obviously have it like plain background. So we know just the exact product that you're selling, but also in the home or on a person like it's equally as as important to show that because that's how the like customer is going to be using the product. So yeah, I mean, I would start off with, you know, your white background just so you have those shots and then like quickly after either work with a photographer or, like really get into making those flatlays because, surprisingly enough, Miranda does get better engagement when it's a styled flatlay.
Lauren Tilden:
Hmm. That's great to know.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, that helps. Yeah, I think interesting to watch.
Lauren Tilden:
I would actually notice that with mine too. Like I've gotten for Good Sheila, my stationery brand. I will post photos like the professional ecommerce photos that have a completely blank white background. Yeah, I will occasionally post those. And usually they don't perform as well as like something simple that I took with my iPhone. Not that I did that great of a job, but just that it's like a little bit more real life, you know, like, it's like, a big pile of stickers. Total, like the most professional photo that's ever been taken. It's decent, but like it feels it's more interesting and more like, I don't know. Yeah, like life.
Hallie MacPherson:
Exactly. Like people can actually picture that in their home or like in their ear for an earring or whatever it is.
Lauren Tilden:
Mm hmm yes, okay. What other like DIY photography tips do you have?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah. I suggest for doing your own like flatlays or product photos at home, for socials or whatever it is, is including like different levels like of height or have size of things in the image. So if that's like, maybe we're talking about a pillowcase, but we use like a part of the pillowcase, depending on how much that takes up in the image. Adding, you know, something like on top of it, or just adding like, dimension really, really helps and playing around with the angles of the photograph. Like, don't be afraid to just like go out and take a ton. Like, I don't just go and take one picture, you know, like, there are hundreds and hundreds in the background. So you have to to figure out the right focusing and, and the right angle for whatever you're shooting. What I like to think of product photography, as as I'm pretty new to it myself, is that as the photographer, you're telling a story of this product. So any like characters that makes sense to, sense to add into, like, do it, but if it's suggesting that they're becoming the main character, then let's take them out.
Lauren Tilden:
Okay, interesting. Yeah, making sure that your props are like this supporting characters, not the main, the main deal? Yeah, absolutely. Got it, you've given us lots of really good tips for taking product photos in our own space, like in our home, or if we have a studio, apartment, whatever it is, what about like, in the wild, whether it's like parks or your backyard, or whatever it is, what tips would you have for taking or suggestions for taking photos? In a different setting.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, totally. Personally, as I like, in the world, I'm constantly looking for like, little tiles or walls that intrigued me. Or like on the sidewalk, sometimes you find like, really, like cool flowers popping up or, yeah, it's just like be observant of like your surroundings and make lists of what you see. And when you see it because light has a big part of course. So I have like lists everywhere that are just like, you know, like 12 in Pike like at 5pm or whatever it is. So then you can always go back and bring your product and yeah, like if I'm, I'm thinking about candles, right so I'm looking at that size of things. So tiles like cool tiles on buildings that I could hold up a candle to or like a cool little grassy spot outside at a park or like when the leaves are changing, getting outside right as they're changing because you'll lose it if you don't shoot. Does that help?
Lauren Tilden:
No, it does like to be observant and I think the tip on like note what time it is to is such a great point because I've done this where I'm like, oh like I love this Rhododendron brush outside I'm gonna take a photo in front of it and then I go back to do it and have not paid attention to the time of day in the light and I'm like, not what I had in mind. So I think that's a great tip. Do you have favorite? Like I know a lot of photographers will talk about like the golden hour. Do you have favorite times of day to do outdoor photography?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, when I'm photographing people which is what I usually do outside I'm always shooting a golden hour I just, don't give me the middle of the day like that's not my jam. But for product photography and in a space with like buildings like I'm thinking about the city because that's where I live, but you can shoot any time of day because you can find a little like diffuse like shady area or you know just like go for it with the sun I'd say starting out like stick to the shade, but using the sun is like a whole nother like beautiful thing and you know if that's part of your your brand and your colors or your vibe like then you know all for it, I'm so here for using natural light and backlight specifically.
Lauren Tilden:
Awesome. Okay, last kind of product photography question and then we're gonna move on to taking photos of yourself. Someone asked how do you get a great white background without a ton of editing?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so it's almost impossible to make a white background if it wasn't a white background to start. So start off with your white background. And then you can always adjust the white balance if it's like a little too warm a little too cool, I personally love my photos to be a little bit more warm. So, you know, maybe my white isn't necessarily like stark white, but I think that's okay, if that's continuous throughout. But yeah, start with your white background, because you can never, you can never replicate a white background in editing.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah. And I will just say like, I tend to try to take photos myself a lot of my work, like if I'm painting or something, it tends to be at night, and it's dark. And I'm using like a really bright light. And it's really hard to get good white photos at night. So because it's like so glaring. So if you are trying to take photos or something on a white background, just definitely don't try to do it with like, artificial light, like, inside. Right?
Okay, so let's talk about taking photos of yourself. So I think most people who listen our product based business owners, but there are some who have service based businesses. So all this conversation around like taking photos of their products may not be relevant to them. But there are, of course, other photos that we all need in our businesses, whether it's photos of us, or us working, or I don't know, your computer, your notebook, whatever it is, so, but let's talk up, I think if you're a service provider, and you're taking photos of just like items, you can probably use all the tips that we've already discussed. But if we're talking about taking trying to get good photos of ourselves without having someone else take those photos, what would you advise.
Hallie MacPherson:
So I think everyone should have a tripod. And how I've taken my own in the past is getting a roll of white paper and hanging it from like a classic photographer setup. So c stands or whatever it is. And granted, not everyone has access to this. So if you just have like a cool colored wall that you like, or you know, like a off white or white wall, take note when the light is really good. Set up your tripod, and just start shooting, taking pictures of yourself is literally the hardest thing. I am not a fan. So if you try, don't beat yourself up about it, because it is really, really hard. And yeah, you can consider me a professional photographer, but I could never do professional selfies, or self portraits. It's just, it's a whole different game. So just at that point, hire someone, like let them do the work for you.
Lauren Tilden:
Are any of your kind of like branding photos of you? Did you take any of those?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, I think the picture I sent for you for the podcast, actually, I took.
Lauren Tilden:
It's so good.
Hallie MacPherson:
Oh my gosh, Thanks. It was a struggle, though. You know, there are hundreds, maybe I took maybe 1000 photos that day too. And I have like five good ones. So...
Lauren Tilden:
I think that's just that, like philosophy for photography is really important to communicate, because I feel like a lot of us will like try to take a selfie and it's like, Oh, that's terrible. I looked terrible. I don't like this photo and not going to take anymore. Whereas like you're saying you take hundreds and then out of those hundreds there's like one that you love. Yeah. So, you know, just kind of being willing to continuously play around with that, I think.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, and in the end, like, it's just fun. Like, if you can't find fun with it, then you know, put it aside and do it another day when you feel like you can. I think that's the biggest thing for me too. Like I was in a really good headspace when I was playing with that I had a couple hours to like really set up the tripod and get my other camera out and and do the whole thing. So yeah, you have to be like willing to fail. And, and then find your find your groove.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, so good. Um, okay, let's talk about photo editing. Obviously, you probably use something like Lightroom or Photoshop, which not everyone is going to have access to. So I would love to hear your tips for beginner photographers who are doing their own product photography or selfie photography, whatever it is, how to add, edit them, like do you you know, do you view it like you're doing 95% of the work when you take the photo and then just like final tweaks, when you edit is editing a bigger part of your process? How do you kind of land there and what tips do you have for folks
Hallie MacPherson:
I'd say the majority of my time is calling images just because I have so many. But when I shoot, I shoot, probably like, 85 Yeah, 90% of what I want. And then I take the rest into editing. So, you know, if you're spending more than like, honestly, a minute or two on each picture, that's too much, like, go back and retake the picture, because it'll just make your life so much easier if you get it right. Like in camera. I've always kind of that's been my philosophy after working with some photographers. You know, they're like, if you don't get it right in the camera, like, what do you have? What do you have to work with, it makes it just so much more tough. So I personally, like from my camera, I'll upload to my computer and, and use Adobe Bridge in Photoshop. But what I am really doing is tweaking lighting, so tweaking the exposure, highlights and shadows, and usually taking out a little bit of contrast, to make it a little bit more lifelike, in my opinion. But a great app that I use on my phone is the Tezza app, the it's t e z z a.
Lauren Tilden:
Amazing, how exciting
Hallie MacPherson:
Yes, it's. So it's made by an influencer, who's also a photographer, and she makes like, amazing presets. So that's a whole other game. But for free on the Tezza app, you can do like little tweaks and crops and you know, lighting and colors. And then it's pretty inexpensive. It's pretty affordable for what you get, I think yearly, it's like $40. And so, she has like, she's always coming out with new presets on there. But you know, you can swipe through them and find ones that you like, and then stick in that color scheme or, or editing style. So I maybe have like two or three that I would potentially use on images on my phone, if I'm going to post it to Instagram or like a story because most of my work. I'm just I'm going through the camera. But yeah, for iPhone images, like that's a great place to start and choosing your preset from that app, and then tweaking it to how you like it, I think is a great way to start getting your like cohesive brand, and brand photography, like put together.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, I'm glad that you kind of brought that back up, because I don't think we really emphasized it before. But we spend a lot of time talking about like optimizing each individual photo. But like when it comes to building a brand. Like Hallie said, you want people to be able to scroll through their feed or their phone, whatever it is and recognize your brand just by the photo. So you're suggesting that people kind of whether you're using Tezza, or however you're editing that the kind of editing treatment that you apply to one photo you apply to most of them, but it's like consistent that way.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, absolutely. And every photo is going to edit a little bit differently just because of like lighting changes and backdrop changes. But yeah, staying consistent with your editing style, or like who you work with as a photographer, I think is really, really important.
Lauren Tilden:
So good. I'm, my mind is reeling. I'm like, Okay, I have to go to Goodwill, I have to go to the hardware store, and I have to download this app, so I'm very excited to start taking some photos. When, let's talk a little bit about people who are maybe ready to kind of make the move from taking their own photos to hiring it out. What does it usually look like to work with the photographer, when, like what point in people's business? Should they maybe be thinking about doing that? How how do you approach, how do you suggest that we approach thinking about working with a photographer?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, great question. You know, with my products, I'm almost kind of like I am ready to hire. Because you get so tiring and if it's especially like your own product, like you can only maybe see it like a certain way or you get kind of stuck photographing it the same way over and over again. So if that's you, you're getting tired of it and you've you've tried, but it's becoming like a chore and something that you really really don't like then let it go like, we're gonna delegate that tasks to someone who actually really likes this and, and has the skill, right? So then you can focus on the other aspects of your business that you really love. I'm like a big believer in that even though I'm still working on figuring that out, I think every photographer works so differently, I can tell you what my process is, it usually starts out with an inquiry, you drop me a line, either like a DM on Insta, or even better, like an email, we can hop on a call and, and go through packages.
So right now for branding, I offer a few different packages, which vary. And so one of them is like monthly branding styling. So for example, with Miranda, I, I photograph her jewelry every month, and then she has content that she can push that's relevant to the season and, you know, relevant to her new collections that drop every so often. And then I'll just use her as an example, because that's the easiest, then, you know, every few months, when she has a big collection, for like spring or fall, we'll head in the studio for you know, maybe two or like, three hours, hire models, and get those, get all those pieces photographed in the same light the same space the same time. So it all looks super cohesive. And then she'll, she'll get that in time to put on her website and Instagram for her launch. And then I also just offer another package that is just like an hour in the studio and getting kind of a baseline for what working with me might be like, or look like how I photograph your photos, or how I photograph your product in a flatlay but also on a model. So the owner could either be the model, or we we get a professional, and does that help?
Lauren Tilden:
No, I totally helps. Yeah, for sure. Um, and I guess another question on this topic would be, a lot of times when you go into, like wanting photos taken, you have something in your head like that you want. How do you make sure that you're like effectively communicating, I guess, your vision, and just like you're totally on the same page as a photographer, so that you are, like delighted with what you get and not surprised or you're not like kind of going in different directions.
Hallie MacPherson:
Totally. So definitely stalk the photographer before you work with them and make sure like, this is what they're showing, if you know they're in in the photo game right now, like, on their Instagram, that's what they're going to be shooting like so really, like, make reference with it. Or reference yourself like with their work. And what I do for branding clients, I always make a mood board. So if that's on Pinterest, I, I asked them to like collect just a handful of images that they're coming to me with, with in the back of their head. And then I'll go in and I'll make that board more well rounded, and maybe add into my ideas. But yeah, like being a visual person, and most photographers are like, I think sharing your idea, visually in terms of like, this is a photo I saw and this is what convinced me to hire you or this is what convinced me I needed product photography that is going to help so much in trying to explain like what you saw in the image that you like about it, because we can like a lot of images. But you know, tell your photographer what you like about it. And then I know I could work off of that and figure out a great like, mood board for the shoot.
Lauren Tilden:
Mm hmm. That's great advice. Great advice. Okay, we are I am, I could just keep going. But I want to be respectful of your time. I want to ask one more question before we move into kind of the wrap up questions and that is around managing so many different things. Just kind of getting to know you Hallie, like I know that you have your photography business, you have this candles business, you just hosted a conference. I know there's other things in the works. So with so many different kind of corners to what you do, how do you balance it all? How do you kind of either from like, you can answer this however you want, whether it's like mentally or like, like how do you actually get everything done? Just what is your kind of approach to the fact that your businesses or like just you'd have so many kind have different corners to what you do.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, this is a great question Lauren, because I am I look to you, or like other people in the same situation, I do not feel balanced whatsoever. I am really, really struggling with that this year as a whole, because I started, you know, the second I started making candles, you know, like, within the last year or so. And I just took photography full time, like, a little over maybe a year and a half ago when this comes out. So that's been a huge transition, the candles on top of it. COVID I just like, you know, moving. It's kind of ridiculous.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, um, so I appreciate this answer. I I also, like, have no idea how to approach it. So I'm always asking people who also do like, you know, multiple things with their businesses like, oh, but yeah, answer might just be like, there's no right way. Like, you know, sometimes there's no balance. Like, sometimes you're going hard with one thing. And it means something else is on pause, like, yeah, I don't know.
Hallie MacPherson:
That's, that's what I'm feeling right now, candles have taken this fall like a huge, huge pause, because I just have so much work from the summer for photography that I need to get edited and out the door. So yeah, it's really interesting and kind of sad, because I, I really love both. But it's really time to start thinking of like hiring someone to do the stuff that I just cannot keep up with. I do make a lot of lists, though. So as fun as they are to look at look at I don't know how much is getting done. But, you know, I'm adding like five more things when I get two or three things done. So yeah, I'm not.
Lauren Tilden:
Where are you storing? Like all of your tests? Who's like a tool for that? Or like paper?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so I actually just got a new planner. It's a 52 list projects by Maria Co. I'm really enjoying it because there's so much room for like lists making and just like thought organizing, that doesn't make sense to other people. But it makes sense to me.
Lauren Tilden:
I've actually didn't know she had a planner.
Hallie MacPherson:
Yes, it's great. But yeah, hand by hand, usually. But if I'm on the go, I'll I have so many like, untitled notes on my phone, it's like stupid.
Lauren Tilden:
Okay, this has been so fun. Let's move into the kind of closing questions that I get to ask all of our guests. Number one is how do you approach doing good through your small businesses?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so I love this question. I think it's really, I can get really caught up in like, making sure I'm doing good for the whole world. And that stresses me out. So if I take one client at a time, like and make that shoot a really positive experience for them, like I know, I'm doing good in my business, and I'm doing good for the world. In terms of like a product based business, I grew up outside and, and the environment is really important to me the world, right? So I'm, I have carbon offset shipping, and I have, like 100% recycled and recyclable or biodegradable packaging. So that's super important to me. And, you know, it's like the little things you can really get caught up in like, I'm not doing enough, like, you know, everything has to be like sustainable or like, everything has to be like, make sure I touch every single person. It's like, well, in the grand scheme of things. That's impossible. You're not going to but if you can touch one person's life, or like one aspect of the sustainability crisis we have going or the climate crisis we have going on like, then you're doing good. And that's what I believe.
Lauren Tilden:
Yeah, I love that. Yeah, every small act adds up. So you mentioned a lot of really important ways of doing good there. I love I love what is one small business that you admire?
Hallie MacPherson:
Okay, not to sound like a broken record, but Miranda, And Arlen. Yeah, she really just does it all and coming from like, not a background in entrepreneurship necessarily. Or she just had this thing that she loves to do make jewelry and she's like figuring it out. I am so humbled by how she's figuring it out and watching her and supporting her along that journey is amazing and inspiring to me so.
Lauren Tilden:
Totally and I don't have it handy but she actually was interviewed on this podcast a while back about Tik Tok, she saw a lot of growth in her business through Tik Tok. So if you're interested in learning about that, and hearing from Miranda herself, she's come up a lot on this episode, then definitely I'll link that in the show notes. So, great recommendation. Yeah. What is a book recommendation that you have?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yeah, so being a creative and in mostly a service way, I like to think, you know, I'm, I think I'm majorly a photographer, an artist at heart. So I like I like books that like speak to my soul, or kind of, like, change my perspective on life. So Big Magic by Elizabeth Gilbert has totally changed how I think about creativity, being a creative and, and like how to move through the world that has like really stuck with me for years and years. And I think, yeah, maybe it's not necessarily a business book. But that's great. It's like a philosophy kind of book. And I think that, you know, relates back into both my businesses.
Lauren Tilden:
Totally, and most listeners are creative, would identify as creative in some way. So yeah, I don't think I ever, I think I had it on Kindle. And I don't think I really read very much of it. For whatever reason, so now I feel like I need to go back. So thank you for wanting that. Where can listeners connect with you online? Tell them where to find both of your different brands and just where to get in touch with you?
Hallie MacPherson:
Yes, I'm most active on Instagram. So at Halle, Catherine photography, and soul candles, and that's soul with an E. I'm most active on Instagram, and my emails, so you can find there.
Lauren Tilden:
Amazing. Well, Hallie, thank you so much for this. I have gotten so many ideas from just listening to how you approach your photography. I again have like now I want to go shopping for props and like just turn my little office into a photo studio. Very inspired. Holly, thank you so much. This has been such a blast. Yay.
Hallie MacPherson:
Thank you so much, Lauren. This is so awesome. I'm I love sharing the wealth.
Lauren Tilden:
Okay, did anyone else end up with a full page of notes after listening to this episode? Hallie, thank you so so much for everything you shared today. I am so grateful to you. You can get all the details from this episode at makinggoodpodcastcom/96. I know Hallie and I would both love to hear from you on Instagram. You can find Hallie at HallieKathrynPhotography. Or at Soule Candles. That's s o u l e candles and connect with me at @LaurenTilden. Finally, I would so love to work with you inside of Making Good Happen. My brand new membership kicking off in January. The doors close in just a few days on December 31. So get the details now at makinggoodpodcast.com/happen. Thank you for being here and for focusing on making a difference with your small business. Talk to you next time.