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8 Tips for Getting a Successful Start in Stock Illustration

Thu, 21 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

From finding your style to connecting with buyers and everything in-between, check out pro tips for starting a career in stock illustration.

While trends come and go, there’s always room for inspired designs and expressive artwork. Take these insights on everything from maintaining your creativity to growing your business acumen from pro illustrators who make a living with their art.

Get started creating your own, unique illustrations. Image by Vividdiy8.

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Develop a Unique Style

“Having a unique style is so important. I always want clients to see my illustrations and immediately know it’s my work,” Thailand-based artist Vividdiy8 explains. “Some people prefer minimalism and others like the luxury market. Your personal style is up to you, but I’ve created my brand based on illustrating cheerful characters for children. I think my work is popular because it’s easy-to-use and simple. Also, almost all of my work goes through my little niece to make sure she likes it!”

Aim for Quality

Make a point to always create high-quality illustrations. Image by mashakotcur.

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“People will always search for high-quality content, regardless of the subject,” artist and designer Maria of mashakotcur explains. “Put quality first. Keep learning and improving, and don’t skimp or cut corners when making illustrations. It will pay off in the long run.’

“Another tip I have is to keep your illustrations versatile so they can be used in as many different designs and contexts as possible. For example, I often create big sets of elements for designers to buy and use to build almost anything—from greeting cards to wallpapers to textiles.”

Find Your Niche

Use your personal strengths to nurture your skillsets. Image by Rosapompelmo.

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“Do your research to see what the market offers and what the market lacks,” artist and textile designer Elena Belokrinitski, a.k.a. Rosapompelmo, advises. “Some subjects are already covered so well by other artists that it will be difficult to compete. However, if you have a unique knowledge of something special, developing that may be your key to success.’

“For me personally, I found my niche in tropical patterns and elements. Floral patterns have a long history that I’ve been able to study in-depth, and as the owner of dozens of plants, I’m able to illustrate from life.”

Imagine the End Buyer

Stay on top of emerging trends. Image by Paitoon Patisonticharoen.

“I think, for beginners especially, it’s so important to survey what kinds of images the market needs and also to think about ideas and topics that are relevant to your target buyer or industry,” illustrator and designer Paitoon Patisonticharoen tells us.

“For example, I think in the coming years, illustrations relating to health, wellness, medicine (vaccines), science, and the environment will continue to trend across many industries, due to the lasting effects of COVID-19. I’m always seeking inspiration by reading books and surfing the internet for trending news and information about what might be in demand.”

Try New Things

Keep your mind open to new techniques. Image by Anna42f.

“Trends and styles are constantly changing, so I don’t think I have a favorite theme or subject,” Ukraine-based graphic designer Anna42f says. “I use different techniques all the time, as this seems more interesting to me than constantly creating illustrations on just one topic. I often take inspiration from my travels, since I see and learn different styles from different countries.”

Experiment with new styles and techniques. Image by Voysla.

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Keep an open mind, and don’t be afraid to mix it up. As the Belarus-based artist Voysla tells us, “I find it difficult to give advice to young illustrators because they never cease to amaze me. Part of the reason is that they are great at seeing and creating in their own way. The main thing is to keep experimenting with a combination of styles, colors, and techniques. That’s what I’m always doing—from creating colorful neon signs to drawing minimalistic icons.”

Look for Local Inspiration

Find inspiration in your own passions in life. Image by Ms Moloko.

“There are so many popular global themes—like the holidays, business, family, love, etc.—but it is also worth looking around and finding something totally unique to you, whether it’s your hobbies or your local culture,” the artist Nadezhda Shikina, a.k.a. Ms Moloko, tells us.

“Perhaps you are an origami expert or you have a sport you love. Perhaps you’re more qualified than the average tourist to capture the flavor of your national holidays or create an illustration of local cuisine. Look at your surroundings, and find inspiration based on your own lifestyle, hobbies, and worldview.”

Think Long-Term

Build a strong portfolio with numerous images. Image by Visual Generation.

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“I don’t have any universal recipes for popular illustrations, as getting to the top depends on so many factors, and a best-selling illustration is one in a thousand,” Andrew Kravchuk of the design studio Visual Generation says. “The only advice I can impart is to create a large and prominent portfolio with a huge collection of high-quality content—not just one image. Build a portfolio that clients will want to come back to and subscribe to. In my mind, there is no quick strategy—just a long-term commitment to building a strong portfolio.”

When in Doubt, Keep it Classic

Follow what’s trending but focus on timeless themes. Image by Olga Korneeva.

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“I’ve always liked vintage and classic designs,” Russian-based artist Olga Korneeva says. “I often use my illustrations as a reminder to slow down and take my time, as everything nowadays changes so quickly. I will always invest my time in quality illustrations.’

“When I was working as a designer who bought stock illustrations, I saw so many changing trends. They were like clouds drifting in the sky. So, I knew I wanted to keep my feet on the ground. From the very beginning, I’ve focused on simple, eternal themes over trendy subjects.”

Discover additional illustration tips, tricks, and advice with these articles:

Cover image by Voysla.

The post 8 Tips for Getting a Successful Start in Stock Illustration appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

5 Hidden DaVinci Resolve Editing Tips and Techniques

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 15:30:00 GMT

Looking to expand your DaVinci Resolve editing skills? Take a look at these five not-so-obvious tips to add to your arsenal of skills.

Okay, so, these features aren’t hidden by definition. They’re not hacks or something that works under the system. They are just tips and techniques that I think often go amiss by new editors on the DaVinci Resolve platform. Or, perhaps you’ve been on the software for a while now and rarely venture through the menus. You can do so much more in the software with shortcuts and tools accessible on the main UI. With that, let’s see if I can give you at least one thing you haven’t come across before in the tutorial below.

While you can find the video transcript below, I recommend watching the video tutorial to see exactly how the tips work.

1. Ripple Timeline Markers

I’m always using markers. I tend to use them a lot when I’m editing tutorials and want to mark the specific area where I need to input graphics.

Markers allow you to select the specific area you need to input graphics.

However, let’s say I ripple delete a section of the soundtrack and voiceover, but still need the marker to remain in place over the video. When I ripple delete the audio, the marker also moves back, but because the video has stayed where it is because autoselect on the video tracks was turned off, my marker is telling me I need to add my animation to the wrong point.

To stop the marker from moving backward, you simply go to the Timeline menu and select Ripple Timeline Markers. Now, when we ripple delete something from the timeline—or ripple edit, which pushes clips forward—the marker stays where it is.

Select Ripple Timeline Markers to stop the marker from moving backward.

Of course, you need to remember that this is turned off when you start making ripple edits that affect all tracks and want that marker to move.

2. Navigate with Middle Mouse Button

There are numerous ways to navigate the timeline. We, of course, have the on-screen buttons to zoom in and out, along with the respective keyboard shortcuts that do the same thing. If we use the scroll button on the mouse, we can move up the list of tracks. And, if we hold control, we move horizontally through the timeline. Holding Alt while using the scroll wheel will zoom in or out of the timeline.

Hold the middle mouse button to move through the timeline faster.

However, did you know there’s also a fourth scroll wheel function, and that when you click it and hold the scroll or middle mouse button, it turns into a grab hand tool? This allows you to quickly move through the entire timeline a lot faster than any other method (see the video for how fast).

Additionally, depending on what area of the timeline you’re on when you press the middle mouse button, it also allows you to scale up or down the tracks. Click it in the video section to move up and down the video tracks. Or, click it in audio section to move up and down the audio tracks. Of course, this only really works if you have multiple tracks, but this method of moving horizontally is still much faster than the default methods.

3. Looping Range on Color Page

While I’m a certified Resolve editor first and foremost and love to share editing tips, let’s just quickly jump to the color page for a hidden tip that Resolve updated not so long ago.

We know that when grading, you can press the repeat button and it’ll loop the clip you’re working on. This is nice when you have a short clip and want to stop it from immediately proceeding to the next.

However, what if you want to see how the graded clip looks in context to the next clip, but still want it to revert to the start position? Or, perhaps you only want a particular area of a single clip to loop?

Create an in and out point for the area under the timeline selection to become loopable.

Open the Timeline tab on the Color Page and (like on the edit page), you can create an in and out point (I & O). Then, when pressing Play, the area under the timeline selection area will become loopable, if the loop action is active.

4. Data Burn-in

Okay, if you’re a DaVinci Resolve veteran, or just an editing veteran in general, I’m going to assume this might be basic knowledge. If you’re new to Resolve (or new to editing), you might think: Oh, that’s cool. Not too sure when I’ll use that, but now I know!

Suppose you’re entering your film into a festival, or giving a preview to someone, and you don’t want the film to appear online. You might look to place a watermark or preview title across the entire film. Or, perhaps for review purposes, you want to add a timecode to the file.

Well, don’t bother adding a title across the entire timeline because that’s going to be messy and likely cause havoc on your timeline. Instead, go up to the Workspace menu, and select Data Burn-in.

Once the pop-up menu appears, add a variety of data to the video clip.

This pop-up menu will appear. By using it we can add a variety of different data to the video clip—from the source name of each file to custom text. Additionally, we can also adjust the majority of font properties—from opacity to color.

This won’t add a layer or anything of the sort. Therefore, it’ll keep your timeline nice and clean until you’re ready to get back to editing. To turn the data burn-in information off, you just return to the burn-in menu pop-up and deselect what you added.

5. Create Selection Based on Clip Duration

So, we know that if we create a selection on the timeline, by creating in and out points (I & O), we can then ripple delete (or delete with backspace) the entirety of all clips within the selection that has autoselect on.

However, sometimes going through the rigmarole of setting in and out points can be two clicks too many, especially if the selection you want to delete all falls under one clip. In the clip in the video tutorial, I want to ripple delete everything under this clip—the clip itself, the title, and the sound effects.

Select the clip and hit Shift A.

Instead of creating in and out points, we can just select the clip and hit SHIFT A. This will make a selection specifically to the length of the clip. It saves you from messing around with the playhead.

If you’re new to editing in DaVinci Resolve and are looking for more quick tips, we have a playbook series specifically designed for just that. Here’s Episode One to get you started.

For additional editing tips and techniques, check out these articles:

Cover image via Artie85.

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Sleek and Professional: FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates

Wed, 20 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Create a professional-looking presentation with the help of these FREE customizable Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates.

You have a fresh idea in your mind. You want to elaborate it to your team. What’s the most efficient way to do that? The answer is . . . with a presentation.

To create an awesome presentation that engages with your audience, you need have a good presentation design. To help you elevate your presentation to be more professional-looking, we’re giving away these FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates that are easy to download, use, and customize.

Inside the FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates

This pack contains two sets of presentation templates: Minimal Dawn Template and Minimal Midnight Template. Both templates are sleek and minimalistic, and they come in two contrasting color palettes.

Minimal Dawn and Minimal Midnight Template. Image via Vladimir Zotov.

The templates are versatile to use for any presentation—from project proposals to business portfolio. Each template contains various layouts, from title slide and section slide to bar and pie chart slides. The Minimal Dawn Template is decorated using minimalistic geometric shapes. It comes in a bright, muted color palette that reminds you of a meadow at dawn.

Inside the Minimal Dusk Template. Images via Vladimir Zotov, Viorel Sima, 3DJustincase, Re_sky, fotokop, limipix, respectively.

On the other hand, the Minimal Midnight Template comes in a bold, monochromatic color palette that reminds you of the tranquility of a dark, quiet night.

Inside the Minimal Midnight Template. Images via Lipik Stock Media, EerikSandstorm, Annette Shaff, Horvath82, Will Rodrigues, respectively.

Downloading the FREE Botanical PowerPoint Templates

Downloading these two FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates is simple. Just click on the button below to start your download. Then, double-click the ZIP file to unpackage its contents and access all the files.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE MINIMALIST POWERPOINT TEMPLATES HERE

*By downloading these FREE Minimalist PowerPoint Templates, you agree not to resell or redistribute these assets.

How to Use These FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates

These templates are available in two formats for PowerPoint and Google Slides. You can choose any of those platforms to make your presentation with these templates.

In PowerPoint

1. Install the Fonts

Before opening your PowerPoint application, you need to make sure that all the fonts used in these templates are installed in your computer. Otherwise, your computer’s default fonts will automatically replace them.

To install the fonts, simply open up the downloaded Minimalistic PowerPoint Template folder. Double-click on the Font folder, Select all (Ctrl+A), right-click, and choose Install.

Install the fonts before opening the template file.

2. Import the Template to PowerPoint

Once the fonts are installed, simply double-click on the .potx file of the design you want to use in the PowerPoint template folder.

3. Save As & Rename

This .potx file is a PowerPoint template format, so you need to Save the file as a .pptx file and rename it with your presentation name before modifying the template. Once you do that, you’re free to modify and customize your own PowerPoint presentation.

4. Customize Your Own PowerPoint Template

To customize your own PowerPoint template, view the Slide Master by clicking on the View tab and choose Slide Master.

View the Slide Master to customize the template.

You can change the layout of the ornaments and text, edit the background color, and create a new layout that suits your needs. When you finish customizing your template, get back to your presentation slide view to edit your presentation. Simply click on the Slide Master tab at the top of the PowerPoint window, close the Slide Master, and you’ll view your presentation slides again. Then, you can add some new slides, write your text, and add your images to your presentation.

Presentation Slide View is where you can edit your presentation, and Slide Master View is where you can customize your template.

In Google Slides

1. Import the Theme

First, open Google Slides and sign in with your account. Start a new blank presentation. Click on Theme to show the Theme toolbar, then hit Import theme.

Importing the theme into Google Slides.

Upload the template .pptx file inside the Google Slides Template. Once the upload is done, choose the template you want, then click on the yellow Import theme button.

Importing the Minimal Midnight Template.

2. Add New Slides

Begin creating your presentation by adding some new slides. To do this, click on the arrow button next to the plus button on the top-left of the window. Choose as many slide layouts as needed.

Adding a new slide.

3. Customize Your Own Google Slides Template

You can customize your own Google Slides Template by viewing the Master slides. Do this by clicking on the dropdown View toolbar, then clicking on the Master view.

Viewing the Master Slides

Now you can customize the template—adjust the ornaments, move or add some text placeholders, or change the background color.

Customize your own Google Slides Template.

Now that you know all the basics to creating and customizing your presentation with these FREE templates, it’s time to get creative and mesmerize the audience with your presentation!

Check out these additional resources to help you make an awesome presentation:

Cover image via Vladimir Zotov.

The post Sleek and Professional: FREE Minimalistic PowerPoint Templates appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Design Through the Decades: From the 1900s to the 1950s

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 13:00:00 GMT

Take a look at design through the decades from the 1900s up to the present-day in the first of this two-part series.

Design is an omnipresent and ever-changing marker of time and taste. The 20th and 21st centuries have been formative and fascinating eras for the design industry, with graphic design becoming professionalized and industrial design enjoying a golden era of innovation and creativity.

In this two-part series, we’ll delve into design from the 1900s to the present. day. In this first part, we’ll explore how different movements across architecture, graphic design, and industrial design shaped a collective modernist attitude in the early 20th century, and look at some of the individuals and creations that propelled design forward to the middle of the century.

1900s-1950s: The Age of Modernism

The 19th century was a time of huge change in human societies. The Industrial Revolution had transformed urban spaces beyond recognition, and science and engineering knowledge were developing at an astronomical pace. This context of industrial innovation paved the way for designers in the early 20th century, who were inspired by new technology, materials, and social outlooks.

Over the course of the early 20th century, there was a general movement towards new, urban-focused design, which broke away from what was seen as the traditional and lethargic craft styles of the 19th century. In their pursuit for something radically different, a large variety of groups and artists contributed to a larger Modernist movement—an exciting and innovative approach to art and design that would define the next century of creative output.

Infographic showing the different major design movements and schools of thought over the first half of the 20th century.

Modernism wasn’t an overnight reality. Rather, it was the product of many different sub-movements around the world. The development of Modernism was also heavily influenced by the two World Wars, which brought both horrific realities as well as industrial and social innovation to designers working during these periods.

Below, discover the movements, individuals, and designs that shaped the design world from 1900 to 1950.

1900s: Art Meets Design

Design, as a formal discipline, was still in its infancy at the start of the 20th century. While architecture and art were widely practiced, “design” as we know it today either fell under the umbrella of artistic practice or linked with engineering and architecture.

Many of the great design pioneers of this period would have described themselves as artists or architects. The Scottish architect Charles Rennie Mackintosh is one such individual, credited today with his significant contributions to both design and architecture.

A chair design by Rennie Mackintosh. Image by contributor Gardens by Design.

The early seeds of Modernism were sown in this decade. Mackintosh and others, such as textile designer William Morris and architect Baillie Scott, strove to simplify the ornate forms of 19th century decorative arts and furniture. Many British creatives were drawn to the Arts and Crafts movement, which aspired to raise design to the level of art. The simplicity and function-form balance of some Arts and Crafts output, such as the chair designs produced by Mackintosh, are often held up as the starting point of Modernism.

Alongside this, Art Nouveau was still widely popular with artists in European cities. And, while the style was ornamental in nature, its emphasis on individualism and organic forms gave an expressive beauty and visual strength to buildings and décor. The graphic emphasis of posters produced in this period by artists like Alphonse Mucha laid the foundations of commercial advertising design for the coming decades.

1910s: Art Deco Is Born

As decorative arts became more formalized, thanks to the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau movements, furniture designers, textile artists, and other craftsmen were increasingly regarded as artists, particularly in France, which became the center of a new design movement, Art Deco.

Taking its name from arts décoratifs, the style emphasized geometric forms and straight lines, inspired by the increasing industrialization of Paris.

From left to right: The Art-Nouveau-meets-Art-Deco style of the Koruna Palace in Prague, constructed in 1911-1912. Image by contributor Linda_K. An Art Deco door in Paris, France. Image by contributor timsimages.uk. And, the iconic image of Uncle Sam created by U.S. illustrator James Montgomery Flagg in 1916. Image by contributor Scott Cornell.

Art Deco was gaining ground in Europe when the First World War broke out in 1914. During the war, the talents of many graphic artists were channeled into producing propaganda, with posters designed to bolster the war effort and morale. The spirit of wartime propaganda even filtered into commercial advertising, with products marketed using appeals to patriotism, national pride, and duty.

1920s: The Deco Boom

The post-war years represented a time of radical innovation in design, architecture, and art. The Roaring Twenties saw many of the great masters of modernist architecture, including Alvar Aalto, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Le Corbusier, and Frank Lloyd Wright, formulate their most revolutionary and pioneering ideas.

In Germany, architect Walter Gropius founded a radical art school, the Bauhaus, whose students and teachers created early Modernism as we recognize it today. The school became one of the most influential keystones for the design industry in the 20th century, inspiring generations of graphic designers, architects, and artists to work within a modernist framework.

Wassily armchairs on display at the Bauhaus. The chair was designed by Marcel Breuer, modernist architect and Bauhaus student. Inspired by bicycle frames and constructed using tubular steel, Breuer reduced the form of the classic club chair to its elemental lines and planes. The aim to simplify and abstract was an aspiration of the modernist movement as a whole. Image by contributor Cinematographer.

Outside of Germany, Art Deco was burgeoning into a truly international style, with a lavish and glamorous form of the style defining the face of booming New York, characterizing the interior and exterior of its aspirational skyscrapers.

From left to right: Detail of gargoyles on the Chrysler Building, which began construction in 1928. Image by contributor EastVillage Images. The Chrysler Building’s iconic Art Deco tower. Image by contributor Joseph Sohm. The Bauhaus school, designed by architect Walter Gropius. Image by contributor NKR Factory. And, the Spanish surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Image by contributor Olga Popova.

While the International Style, spurred on by the Bauhaus, inspired architects in the 1920s, and Art Deco continued to dominate most other areas of design, an artistic sub-style, Surrealism, was also providing novel inspiration for artists and designers. While relatively short-lived, this cultural movement had a lasting influence on design. Product designers such as Giovanni Alessi (who established the homeware brand Alessi in 1921) and later Philippe Starck used elements of surrealism in their design approaches.

1930s: Subdued and Streamlined

After the Wall Street Crash of 1929, the glitzy mood of early Art Deco was replaced with a more subtle and streamlined take on the style. Designers stripped away the ornament and excess, creating a new form of Art Deco inspired by aerodynamic and industrial design.

This forward-looking international style, Streamline Moderne, came to define the style of architecture and design over the decade. Curves were introduced into the once-rigid Art Deco formula, creating sleek buildings that used modern materials like steel and concrete to achieve an aerodynamic effect.

From left to right: Sleek locomotives in the Streamline Moderne style. Image by contributor Everett Collection. Pastel-colored Art Deco architecture on Miami’s South Beach. Image by contributor lazyllama. A plane with a streamlined style typical of the 1930s. Image by contributor Fotoluminate LLC. And, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper (1942). Image by contributor spatuletail.

Although the Great Depression slowed the progress of design and art in some areas, artists like Tamara de Lempicka and Edward Hopper enjoyed success with their depiction of a glamorous, Art Deco-inspired fantasy life (Lempicka) or the melancholy realities of the economic downturn (Hopper). Hopper’s most famous painting, Nighthawks, painted in 1942, features many of the hallmarks of late 1930s design—the diner in Streamline Moderne style and a cinematic atmosphere inspired by the growing popularity of movie culture and film noir.

1940s: Design as Propaganda

With the outbreak of the Second World War in 1939, creative attention shifted once again to propaganda and industrial innovation.

Although propaganda was created for wartime purposes, this context produced some exceptionally creative poster work, particularly amongst Soviet designers who were inspired by Constructivism—a Russian movement which argued that art should have a social purpose.

From left to right: An American wartime poster supporting the Russian war effort. Image by contributor Everett Collection. The Lincoln-Zephr, manufactured between 1936 and 1940. Image by contributor Fernando V. And, a 1940s-era Pepsi-Cola can. Image by contributor Zety Akhzar.

This extreme form of Modernism, characterized by graphic red and black palettes and impactful type, influenced graphic designers working in the International Style (later known as the Swiss Style), and helped to shape the style of print design for the next couple of decades.

By the late 1940s, war-weary consumers were desperate for change and optimism. It was in the final years of the decade that a new design movement started to develop—Mid-Century Modern.

1950s: Optimism and Commercialism

After the war, an economic boom and growth in home ownership laid the foundations for new design movements that reflected the optimistic mood of the 1950s.

At the start of the decade, the influence of Streamline Moderne can still be seen in posters and advertising. Individuals aspired to own motor cars, electrical appliances, and televisions, and editorial designs from the period aimed to entice consumers with images that are energetic and cheerful, featuring technicolor palettes and smiling representations of idealized men and women.

Furniture designers, architects, and product designers also began to create work that we now recognize as Mid-Century Modern. This movement looked to combine sleek lines with organic shapes, balancing modernity and naturalism. Designers like Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, and Verner Panton embraced the optimistic Mid-Century Modern style wholeheartedly, bringing out a more humanist and whimsical side to Modernism’s hard edges.

From left to right: Energetic advertising from the early 1950s. Image by contributor Billy Watkins. The iconic Cherner Armchair designed by Norman Cherner in 1957. Image by contributor lynnette. Signage in California with space-influenced styling. Image by contributor cdrin. And, an Atomic Age floor lamp. Image by contributor Studio Light and Shade.

Later in the decade, increasing public interest in space travel resulted in more futuristic designs, with Atomic Age furniture and architecture featuring space-inspired colors, materials, and shapes.

For graphic designers, the most influential movement of the decade was the International Typographic Style (also known as the Swiss Style), a style that evolved in Russia, the Netherlands, and Germany during the 1920s and was further developed by Swiss typographers in the 1950s. Ultra-modernist in spirit, the Swiss Style laid down many of the foundations of graphic design as a discipline, emphasizing grids, sans-serif type, and restricted, strong color palettes.

From Art to Ads

At the start of the 20th century, design didn’t exist as a stand-alone discipline. But, with the development of modernism and the industrial influence of two World Wars, a new place was forged for graphic, product, and industrial design. In the first half of the century, societies experienced extremely rapid change, with new materials, technologies, and ideologies opening up novel avenues for a growing body of architects, graphic designers, and industrial designers.

Commercialism and capitalism were clearly major driving forces behind the evolution of design, but these economic backdrops didn’t dampen the level of creativity and innovation across the design of print, furniture, interiors, and buildings. If anything, modernism facilitated the merging of form and function that had been lacking in previous decades, with design playing a central part in integrating art and style into everyday homes.

Of course, this is only the beginning of the story. The latter half of the 20th century saw some of the most revolutionary developments in the design industry, inspired by space travel, globalization, fashion, and computer technology. Recent decades have seen web, app, and UX design transform the face of design almost unrecognizably.

Delve into the history of photography, art, and design with these in-depth reads:

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16 Illustration Subjects that Successfully Sell on Shutterstock

Tue, 19 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Moving into 2021, we asked more than twenty talented artists to discuss their favorite best-selling subjects to illustrate.

Commercial illustration, as we know it today, dates back to the 18th century, when the English wood-engraver Thomas Bewick created a studio for the printing of illustrations featured in educational materials, art books, newspapers, and more. By the turn of the 19th century, illustrations were everywhere—from the novels of Charles Dickens to local galleries and bookstalls. By the 20th century, publishers had fully released the potential of great illustrations to sell magazines and newspapers.

Illustration in the 21st century has evolved rapidly, with new trends like contemporary art collage, tactile lettering, and 1920s-inspired art deco design reshaping the industry and inspiring emerging artists. Heading into 2021, we asked more than twenty talented artists from around the world to tell us about their favorite subjects to illustrate—from timely events to evergreen subjects. Read on to learn their tips and ideas for what sells on Shutterstock—now and in the future.

Creative Illustration Ideas

Illustrations ideas that look to the future. Image by Vadim Georgiev.

Instagram

1. World Travel

“My best-selling illustration themes include sports, food, technology, cultural values, and holidays, but my personal favorite is travel,” Vadim Georgiev admits. “There is always a corner on the planet that we long to visit—even if it’s just through an illustration. Modern travelers are so diverse, so there is truly so much you can do within this topic.”

Capture the uniqueness of the location. Image by Pavel Smolyakov.

Instagram

When illustrating travel, get specific in terms of historical landmarks and details. “I enjoy traveling and exploring new cities, so most of my illustrations are related to this topic,” Pavel Smolyakov tells us. “Illustrations that capture the unique cultural features of different cities are among the most in-demand. They can be used both for educational or marketing purposes, and they are interesting to create because I get to study and learn about the history of different places.”

2. Annual Holidays

Designers are always in the market for fresh holiday illustrations. Image by Alenka Karabanova.

Instagram

“The first topic that comes to mind is major holidays: Christmas, Easter, birthdays, etc.,” Russian-based artist Alenka Karabanova tells us. “These are evergreen themes because they’re celebrated every year, and designers always need fresh holiday illustrations.”

Whether you’re illustrating local or global events, mark up your calendar for the year ahead. Remember to upload your images well in advance so clients can use them in their seasonal campaigns.

3. Current Events

Create illustrations you have a vested interest in. Image by Gal Amar.

Website | Instagram | Facebook

“My favorite topics for illustrations are those I care deeply about, such as women’s rights, the #MeToo movement, and the Black Lives Matter movement,” the graphic designer, illustrator, and pop artist Gal Amar says. “In my work, I also reflect on current events like the global protests of 2020, elections and politics, and the COVID-19 pandemic.’

Find inspiration in visual artists from the past. Image via Gal Amar.

“It’s important to me to illustrate my point of view about these serious subjects. I often find inspiration in the work of activists and visual culture from the past, like the World War II ‘We Can Do It’ propaganda poster that has since become such an iconic image. This poster has been my inspiration for many of the protest images I have recreated over the years.”

4. Local Culture

Add some folklore to your illustrations. Image by Akbaly.

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“My best-sellers are mainly patterns and folkloric, regional graphics from my country, México,” digital artist and graphic designer Nahiely Velázquez, a.k.a. Akbaly, tells us. “I have a strong passion for the culture and traditions of my country, and it’s always more fun to work on what you’re passionate about.’

“My advice is to think locally to find a niche. That has always worked for me. Try to connect with people in your own country through your work, as it’s easier to sell content to people you can actually see and relate to. You’ll know what they’re looking for, instead of trying to guess what people in other countries might be searching.’

“In the coming years, I’d love to see more holidays from all over the world portrayed in pictures or vectors. I want to see how people in other countries live, what they eat, what they do for fun, etc., portrayed authentically.”

5. Scenes from Daily Life

Find inspiration in everyday activities. Image by Nicoleta Ionescu.

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“I usually take inspiration from my everyday life,” illustrator and cartoonist Nicoleta Ionescu tells us. “For example, I have recently become a mom, and you can see it in my work. I’ve shared authentic slices of my own life, from my ‘mom-shaming’ concept illustrations to the pregnancy-themed ones about having swollen feet. These everyday, ‘slices of life’ topics will always be popular because people relate to them.”

6. Botanicals

Seasonal nature illustrations are especially popular. Image by mamita.

“My favorite topic is nature, and these illustrations always sell especially well in the spring and summer, when people are looking for images of sun, greenery, and plants,” Russian-based artist Marina Vorontsova, a.k.a. mamita, tells us. “I try to absorb as much beauty as possible by visiting parks, gardens, and greenhouses. I also grow flowers myself, and these simple pleasures often form the building blocks for my creative process.”

7. Florals

Floral illustrations never go out of style. Image by Veris Studio.

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Flowers were mentioned so often we thought they deserved a section of their own. “I think florals will never go out of style, as weddings, birthdays, baby showers, and bridal parties will always be around, and they often use these images,” the artist Anna Russett of Veris Studio says.

“There will definitely be changes in style and technique, but the floral subject will stick around. This is such an extensive, diverse subject. You can go tropical, pastel, herbal, traditional botanical, black and white, etc. You can even combine different elements to create almost unlimited compositions and collages.”

Floral patterns are perfect for baby showers, weddings, and holidays. Image by Karma3.

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Ukrainian artist Larysa Nebosenko Koshel, a.k.a. Karma3, makes a range of floral patterns, which then sell for occasions ranging from Mother’s Day to Easter. “My favorite thing is to make seamless patterns with flowers,” she says. “Since they can be used in many places—such as packaging, fabric for dresses, and more. So, many people buy them, and I often see my patterns on finished products.”

8. Landscapes

There will always be a demand for seasonal landscapes. Image by Incomible.

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As many of the artists we interviewed remind us, nature-themed illustrations, including landscapes, will continue to be in-demand for many years to come.

“I have always enjoyed working with natural themes, and these topics have proven to be consistently popular over the last few years. I think because we’re all striving to lead more sustainable, environmentally-friendly lives,” designer and illustrator Yulia Drozdova, a.k.a. Incomible, says. “We want to get back to nature and our origins.”

9. Fruits and Veggies

Watercolors accentuate the juicy flavors of fruits and vegetables. Image by Elena Pimonova.

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“I’d say my ‘evergreen’ topics are fruits and vegetables,” Russian-based artist Elena Pimonova tells us. “That’s one of the reasons I love the watercolor trend—it’s a medium that always makes fruits and veggies look juicy and appetizing. My friends and I often see my illustrations ‘in the wild,’ as designers use them for packaging for everything from food to cosmetics.”

10. Animals and Wildlife

Highlight the beauty and preservation of animals in nature. Image by Solmariart.

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“My favorite illustration subject to submit to Shutterstock are creative animals, sometimes in a more abstract style than what people are used to seeing,” illustrator and surface designer Marina Solodka, a.k.a. Solmariart, tells us. “Going forward, I would like to see even more illustrations and artworks on the subject of environmental friendliness and the protection of endangered species. I want to see images that highlight the beauty of the natural world and show how we can preserve it for generations to come.”

11. Cute Characters

Create images for the timeless population—children. Image by Gabriyel Onat.

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“I love to create combinations of unique, cute, or ‘kawaii’ characters, and I’m always happy to see my designs pop up on products all over the world,” illustrator and designer Gabriyel Onat tells us. “Designs that appeal to children or young people are always timeless, but they need to be high-quality, of course. I often get my inspiration from children and try to design characters that they will like.”

12. Sustainable Living

Create images promoting the sustainability of our environment. Image by Hein Nouwens.

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This subject combines some of the topics and themes we’ve already mentioned, like scenes of everyday life and getting back to nature. “Sustainability has been trending in illustration, so my advice is to think about concepts and ideas that express our hopes for a better, more livable planet,” Netherlands-based artist Hein Nouwens tells us.

“It doesn’t have to be complicated. Common subjects like food, holiday shopping, clothing, animals, and more can all tap into this sustainability movement, as can themes like home gardening or sustainable cooking.”

13. Abstract Patterns

Geometric shapes fit seamlessly into various artistic concepts. Image by Softulka.

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“In my portfolio, there are several items that sell from year to year, and I think their relevance lies in their versatility,” Ukrainian graphic designer and illustrator Iuliia Mazur, a.k.a. Softulka, tells us. “Most are abstract shapes and patterns that do not touch on one specific topic, but fit seamlessly into many different concepts. At the same time, I believe that any work can become a best-seller. The main thing is to follow general trends in the design industry as a whole, and create illustrations that are fresh, relevant, and original.”

14. Maps

Not only are maps fun, they are appreciated universally. Image by Marina Riley.

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In addition to her popular abstract and holiday-themed works, Australian-based artist and designer Marina Riley also has a variety of maps in her portfolio, from glittery maps to word maps, depicting countries around the world, all in line with the travel theme mentioned earlier.

“My personal favorites are my word maps,” she tells us. “I’ve done them for Australia, Sicily, and Ireland, so far. The map is filled with all the words and slang you would only hear being spoken in that country. I’m Australian and I love our language, so I just had to incorporate it into a design. I put this design on a few shopping bags and T-shirts for my friends and family, and it’s a big hit with everyone. Or, as we say down here, they have gone off like a frog in a sock!”

15. Wedding Invitations

Wedding-themed illustrations are always in demand. Image by volcebyyou.

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“Many of the illustrations I notice selling out repeatedly are my invitation cards, I think because weddings happen all year round, regardless of the season,” Lukas Dedi, a.k.a. volcebyyou, explains. “Wedding planners and organizers are always looking for bouquets, frames, background designs—the list goes on.”

16. Unique Lettering

Unique lettering is in constant demand. Image by Irina Trigubova.

“My vector lettering and letters sell consistently because there is a constant demand for them all year round,” Ukraine-based artist Irina Trigubova says. “Ready-made lettering and phrases often look better than regular, standard fonts, and it’s easy for customers to make their own text or a logo from my vector letters.”

Cover image by Pavel Smolyakov.

Looking for additional inspiration, check out these articles:

The post 16 Illustration Subjects that Successfully Sell on Shutterstock appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Clever Valentine Images Made from Everyday Items

Mon, 18 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

This Valentine’s Day, think about creating unique hearts using everything and anything around you. No candy or flowers necessary.

Oxalis Acetosella, commonly known as the Wood-Sorrel. Image via Marian Uradnik.

Bleeding Hearts flowers. Image via Joy Brown.

It’s likely that humans first noticed what we now call a heart shape in nature. Then, over time, the heart graphic became a symbol of love. Now hearts are so widely embedded in our culture, they even supplant words (I “Heart” you). Let’s take a look at some cool, rather inventive, Valentine’s Day hearts.

Heart shape made of flowers on a white background. Image via HAKINMHAN.

Heart-shaped tire tracks in the snow. Image via Tom Gowanlock.

Top view of heart-shaped dough on a dark wood table. Image via Fedorovacz.

Everyday Household Items

We’re all trained to believe that good ideas come from hard work and great tools, but sometimes the exact opposite is true. Overlooked objects, common household items, even waste material (clean waste material hopefully) can galvanize great content.

Heart-shaped brown sugar arranged on a white background. Image via sonia.eps.

A heart-shaped flower made of tulip petals. Image via Zamurovic Brothers.

Heart-shaped mold using clay oil. Image via Teerapong Teerapong.

Broom and heart-shaped dust on a wooden floor. Image via MR. AEKALAK CHIAMCHAROEN.

Bolts, nuts, and other types of hardware in the shape of a heart. Image via thatwastricky.

Colorful confetti in the form of a heart on a white background. Image via Ekaterina Pankina.

Atypical Materials

The key is to keep an open mind. As a visual person, you probably find yourself admiring stray items for their unique textures, colors, or shapes. Maybe it’s the way creases in a glassine bag can look a lot like marble when glowing in sunlight. Or, the deep color of ribbon scraps that excite your eye. Or, a pile of rubber bands of unusual size (super big). These are the things to inspire you this Valentine’s Day. Let atypical materials show you their potential for shaping hearts.

Rubber bands arranged in the shape of a heart. Image via Angkulsara.

Old paint cans and colors colorfully arranged in a heart shape. Image via Sanit Fuangnakhon.

Assorted pharmaceutical pills, tablets, and capsules for the treatment of heart disease arranged in a heart shape. Image via ADragan.

Heart shape torn through recycled paper. Image via Didecs.

Fresh raw meat in the shape of heart on a white background. Image via Africa Studio.

Add Humor to Your Composition

To develop a plan, take a stroll around your space. Open drawers and closets, see your objects as raw material. In photography, juxtaposition of material can lend humor and intrigue to an image. People look twice when you deliver the unanticipated. With this in mind, contemplate all the supplies around you, including the food in your cupboards, your collection of toys, that snarled ball of string on your dryer. Can you manipulate these things into a heart?

A dollar bill folded into a heart on a white background. Image via Cyrick.

Red paint in the shape of a heart on a white paper background. Image via Zamurovic Brothers.

Pieces of heart-shaped watermelon on a white background. Image via janecocoa.

A heart-shaped white rope on a red background. Image via Zamurovic Brothers.

Heart-shaped spaghetti on a white plate with a pink background. Image via Billion Photos.

Draw, Paint, and Sculpt

Imagine that your household items are lined up at an art supply store because, in this case, they’re just as good as those tools (but more fun). As you study a few possibilities, consider what they lend themselves to. You can “draw” with salt (there might even be a funnel tip built in). You can “paint” with toothpaste. You can “sculpt” by piling almost anything into the right posture.

Heart-shaped salt on a black background. Image via RazoomGame.

Toothbrush and turquoise-colored toothpaste in the shape of a heart on a pink background. Image via evso.

Heart-shaped lego bricks on a yellow background. Image via Talaj.

Broken heart made of sugar cubes. Image via ADragan.

Experiment with Scale

Once you’ve chosen a few materials, dig in and find ways to form them into hearts. The key action here is play. Noodle around. Be open. Not only do unusual materials pull a viewer’s attention, scale does too. Experiment with scale: Does a giant heart made of a scrunched blanket excite you more or less than a tiny heart made from a piece of bread?

Smiling baby on a heart-shaped pink blanket. Image via Iren_Geo.

Tiny heart-shaped piece of bread. Image via Rachata Teyparsit.

Play with Quantity

Next, play with quantity. Do multiple hearts (in a happy pile or an orderly grid) look better than a single heart alone? There are no rules, just have fun and try things. And, snap photos as you go to see how things look in the lens, not just to the naked eye.

Bright pink background made of paper confetti cards in the form of hearts. Image via Inspiration GP.

Four colorful heart shapes placed on a red background. Image via Carlos Caetano.

An empty pink note surrounded by heart-shaped push pins on a cork board. Image via Vlad Antonov.

Heart symbol made of various items found in nature. Image via Zamurovic Brothers.

Explore New Surfaces and Backdrops

As you work on your creation, you’ll naturally start to notice surfaces and backgrounds. Consider how your hearts look against different colors, materials, or textures. Use common surfaces in your home like tables and desks, but also think of your carpet, a cutting board, or a tablecloth as a backdrop. You can even use a window pane.

Two heart-shaped pancakes on a light blue plate. Image via Chernyshkova Natalia.

Top view of heart-shaped French fries on a rustic table. Image via stockcreations.

White heart-shaped paper placed on green carpet. Image via ShakirShaffee.

A heart painted on misted glass. Image via volha_a.

Experiment with Backgrounds and Props

You might be making art (in which case disregard everything I’m about to say) but, if you’re going for something commercial, the idea is for viewers to understand your photo quickly. This means recognizing your heart shape easily. Backgrounds and prop-styling can assist with this. If you’re using multiple objects to make a heart (such as a pile of books), you might try a clean background to allow the heart outline to draw the eye without distraction.

A heart made entirely of books on a turquoise background. Image via Africa Studio.

Heart-shaped stack of books on a wooden background. Image via Sensay.

A Sense of Scale

If you want to highlight unusual materials (pencil shavings, sugar cubes, clay) you might style a set that includes your original source as a hint (an intact pencil, a sugar bowl, clay tools). This has the added benefit of giving the viewer a sense of scale, which makes for a quick read.

Sharpened colored pencils and pencil shavings in the shape of a heart. Image via Natalia Sokko.

Sugar cubes in the form of hearts on an old wooden table. Image via SMarina.

A child sculps a heart figure from clay. Image via Svietlieisha Olena.

By the time you’ve created your own unique Valentine’s Day imagery, you’ll realize that this way of thinking cannot be turned off. You can, and probably will, use the process again. You may create props out of unusual items when pulling together a birthday set, building a dinner table scenario, or designing promotional web posts. Once you’ve seen how objects can promote creative tinkering, there’s really nothing stopping you. Enjoy the ride. And Happy Valentine’s Day.

Various colored lipstick in the form of a heart. Image via Sasha_Brazhnik.

Cover image via Zamurovic Brothers.

For additional inspiration, check out these articles:

The post Clever Valentine Images Made from Everyday Items appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

The 10 Best YouTube Channels for Photographers in 2021

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 18:28:00 GMT

From street photography to travel narratives, here are some of the best photography channels on YouTube right now.

2020 was a weird one, there’s no denying this. However, one thing that I noticed was an influx of YouTube channels taking off. With creators stuck inside, out of work, or sitting at home on YouTube all day (or in my case, all three), many creators hit the ground running, creating some truly out-of-this-world content. And consistently, too, I might add.

So, excluding some of the bigger names that I’ve written about in years past, I decided to try and showcase some of the smaller, newer channels. These channels aren’t just for photographers, either. Learning about light, how lenses work, exposing and composing images is something that can benefit anybody interested in working with a camera, regardless of whether you’re capturing video or an image. So, here are some of the best photography channels on YouTube right now.

1. Ulysses Aoki

With a focus on street photography, Ulysses’ channel is ultimately a masterclass in inspiration and technical prowess. Even if you’re not interested in the art of taking strangers’ photographs, this channel can help you overcome any fears you might have of going out into the world to take photos.

2. Faizal Westcott

With a strong focus on street and city life photography, Faizal mostly uses a Fujifilm X100V to show the power of light and composition in an extremely unpretentious way. There are plenty of tutorials for dipping your toes into this style of photography, as well as editing, exposure, and composition tips. This channel is only going to get better with time as Faizal becomes one of the new, inspiring street photographers on the American East Coast.

3. T. Hopper

Every photographer should subscribe to this channel. No matter the field you’re interested in, there’s a video for you. These videos are deep dives into famous photographers and cinematographers‘ work, looking at how the images were made and why they’re special. Get ready to be inspired after watching one of these, and watch out for this channel. It’s going to be huge.

4. Sophia Carey

This channel has it all. Whether you’re interested in gear, technical insights, creative inspiration, editing, film, or just learning how another photographer works, Sophia can do it all. And, to top it all off, she’s really good at documenting everything. This is a photographer’s channel, through and through. I originally found this channel from a recommended “behind-the-scenes” video of a portrait shoot she did, and after seeing the results, I was immediately hooked.

5. Bryan Birks

Bryan Birks is building an impressive body of work. With a focus on large-format portraiture, each video is a look into his process, but also photography, in general. There’s a lot to learn here and you don’t have to be into film photography to benefit. Between the process of getting ready to go out and shoot, to looking for subjects, there’s an insane amount of precision that goes into these photos. Check it out, you won’t be disappointed.

6. Chris Chu

Another relatively new channel, Chris Chu is taking cliché topics—like self-portraits, client work, and creative inspiration—and adding his own energy, while taking some pretty incredible photos in the process. With videos on both digital and film photography, this channel is for anybody needing a shot of creativity to get them off the couch. I can’t wait to see where this channel goes.

7. Diane Villadsen

These videos are so good it’s ridiculous. They’re precise, informative, and so much fun to watch. These product demos are cheap and really really good-looking. If you’re in need of some inspiration for using colors, lighting, and set decoration in a new way, Diane’s channel is an absolute masterclass in visually eye-popping commercial work. I use this channel as a reference if I need an insert shot for a video or ideas for any type of product shots, regardless of the brand or color scheme.

8. Brian Lackey

I found this channel late into 2020 and I’m so glad I did. Brian’s approach to photography is clean, tasteful, and timeless. The format of the videos are something we can all relate to as photographers—driving around, hiking around, wandering around with a camera by yourself. It’s nice to know there’s still real passion out there for photography and Brian’s work is no exception.

9. Steve O’Nions

Why doesn’t this channel have more subs? This guy is a great photographer and his videos are so well made. There’s no fast-paced editing, crazy motion graphics, or super-fake energetic personality, it’s just really solid information with exceptional photographs. It’s like what YouTube used to be and I love it. His videos are mostly film, but more than anything, they’re about composition and exposure, which can apply to any type of photographer.

10. Vuhlandes

Vuhlandes is one of the better photography channels on YouTube because he just does what he wants, and shoots what he wants to shoot. Don’t expect to find anything here but good photography, vulnerability, and deep dives into what makes good photos . . . good. He focuses on both film and digital, documenting his daily life, portraiture, and gear reviews.

Cover image via Guitar photographer.

Want to read more on YouTube tips, tricks, and advice? Check out these articles:

The post The 10 Best YouTube Channels for Photographers in 2021 appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Ultimate Guide to Shooting Videos and Photos Underwater

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 16:30:00 GMT

Shutterstock spoke to four creatives about shooting videos and photos in a space where you have to be one with the waters. Let’s dive in.

An extremely challenging genre, underwater photography is also equally mesmerizing. It gives the public a peek of what’s down in the ocean, showcasing the beauty and mystery of it. The mix of its dreaminess and challenge of reaching such an ominous destination is perhaps the reason why many are getting hooked to underwater photography. Shutterstock spoke to Romona Robbins, Thorsten Henn, and couple Kate and Peter Peterka, creatives who focus on underwater photography and videography, to learn about shooting videos and photos in a space where you have to be one with the waters.

Be Comfortable as a Diver

To take good photos, you must master your diving skills first. Image via Rich Carey.

“Diving and photography are completely different activities,” says Romona Robbins, PADI divemaster and photographer who has dabbled with underwater photography for over a decade. She explains that, “Diving is a sport and photography is a craft. Marrying these two together is daunting, at first.” Robbins shares that in order to take good photos underwater, you must “master your diving skills first . . . You have to pay attention to your gauges so you don’t run out of air,” she shares.

Robbins added that mastering buoyancy is another priority. “Good buoyancy keeps you steady, and this will help keep your camera steady.” She says that becoming comfortable as a diver and mastering buoyancy helps you from kicking the seabed, which would muck up the water’s visibility. This also makes sure you don’t accidentally damage coral reefs.

Understand the Light

Consider your natural light source when shooting toward the surface. Image via paul cowell.

Light underwater is not the same as light on dry land. While you can shoot during daytime and nighttime, Thorsten Henn says it’s important to consider the depth you intend to go. “For example, if I am shallow—say five meters—the sunlight will influence my subject. And, even more so if I shoot towards the surface, like a diver ascending above me, for example. This scenario can create some stunning effects, like light rays breaking through the water,” says Henn. “The deeper you descend, the less daylight you will have.”

Henn, whose love for photography started during his early teen years, shares that investing in lighting is smart, especially if you intend to shoot thirty meters deep or more.

Night dives are appealing to many photographers, and for a good reason—it’s pitch black and the color of marine life will pop out in the shots. But, as Henn notes, the challenge here is the focus. Be sure to focus both the camera and lighting torch on your subject as you take your photo.

Capture Vibrant Colors

For vibrant images, get as close to your subject as possible. Image via Solarisys.

It’s easy to assume that when shooting underwater, especially marine life, that the color would magically become vibrant in every single shot. In reality, there’s a lot of practice and technique developing that happens. Couple Kate and Peter Peterka, who met because of their love for photography and the ocean, share that the key to achieve vibrant shots is to be close to your subject. Robbins also agreed, stating, “Lighting can only travel so far in water, so getting as close as possible to your subject in the water is the best way to keep it colorful. This will also minimize the backscatter.”

Henn added that you may want to use a red filter in front of your lens to “filter out the blue color.” This is especially important when you’re not using underwater flashes. There are a variety of red filters available in the market, as well as filters in other colors. Henn noted that you may want to start with an orange filter at five to ten meters deep, and use deep red filters when you’re at twenty to thirty meters deep. “The deeper your descent, the more bluish light you will get,” he explains.

Camera Stabilization

Good underwater stabilization can mean the difference between a good and bad image. Image via Lewis Burnett.

Stabilization is also something you need to pay attention to, especially when you’re still shopping for a camera. Unlike dry land photography, there are fewer options for stabilizers for underwater photography. The most common would be the dual handheld grips. That said, Kate and Peter noted that when shopping for a camera, choose one with the best image stabilization. You have no control of the waves and the water currents and, oftentimes, it’s unpredictable. Prepping yourself with the right gear is helpful for a smooth sailing underwater shoot.

Choose the Right Camera Settings

When shooting video, camera settings are an important consideration. Image via Subphoto.

Camera settings can be daunting, even if you’re not new to photography. Some settings just won’t work underwater, or at least won’t work as well as they do on land. Kate and Peter suggest going for P or Program Mode when starting out. They do, however, note that they always use “aperture priority with a fixed ISO setting or full manual camera setting,” especially for their complicated shots. Robbins shares that her go-to setting for full-frame DSLR is F8-F11, ISO 200, and mid-power for her strobe set when using one. She added that when it comes to white balance, AWB or automatic white balance is a good starting point.

When it comes to format, Henn’s suggestion is to shoot in RAW. He notes that this format lets him “adjust color to a certain extent in the post-production process,” which is always crucial. Kate and Peter, who often shoot videos, shared that shooting in 60fps or more is advisable. This allows you to slow the video easily in post-production.

Invest in Good Underwater Lights

The right underwater light gear is essential to your shoot. Image via Kichigin.

No doubt, early morning and late afternoon natural lights are the best. But, with underwater photography, you don’t always get to take advantage of those. Nature is always in control, and sometimes, things don’t work out. This is when you need underwater light gear. Robbins shares that her go-to equipment are Sea&Sea strobes and focus lights for night shots. For Henn, it’s INON flash and he attaches a light on the hot shoe of his underwater housing when shooting at night. Videographers Kate and Peter go for Light & Motion Sola video lights.

The rule of thumb when choosing a lighting gear is to opt for one that is easy for you to manipulate. You’d want to be as light and free as possible. Avoid purchasing lighting gear that’s too big and bulky for you, or not flexible enough for your needs.

The position of the sun and time of the day are not the only things to consider when chasing good, natural light. As Robbins put it, “You also have to take water surface conditions into consideration as well. For example, if it is nice and calm and you shoot while the sun is at a low point, you can get stunning dappling light. If surface conditions are rough or choppy, the light bounces and refracts. You won’t get dappled lighting.”

Silica Gel Packs for Camera Housing Care

It’s essential that both your housing and your camera are free of moisture. Image via Marcus Paladino.

The type of camera housing you use plays a huge part in your underwater photography. Some houses are bulky but have a purpose, while others are smaller and more basic. And, caring for these requires a bit of a learning curve. Photographer Marcus Paladino shares in the Shutterstock video below that silica gel works perfect in absorbing heat and moisture. You need both your housing and your camera to be free of moisture or else it will fog and affect your shots.

Also note that when shooting video, your camera works harder and will heat up. Put two to three packs of silica gel in your housing at the sides of your camera, or find a spot where they won’t move around. The gel packs will absorb any heat and moisture as you’re shooting underwater.

Paladino also says it’s a big NO to leave your camera housing setup under direct sunlight or in hot spaces like a closed car. This will cause your housing to sweat because it’s all closed and set up. If you need to leave it in a hot space for a while, consider opening the housing so it can breathe.

Take Note of Housing Buoyancy

When shopping for a camera, pay attention to its buoyancy. Image via Leonardo Gonzalez.

Henn reminds us that the buoyancy of camera housings is not the same. Some float while others sink. Henn says this will “heavily affect your diving performance,” which is to say, pay attention to the buoyancy when shopping around for housing.

Positive buoyancy, or those that float, may not be the best option, as you might end up chasing your camera as it floats away from you. If this happens, you’ll consume more air. On the other hand, negative buoyancy housings (or those that sink) may affect your balance and trim. There are housings that are neutral, and if you spot one of those, they’re the best to buy.

Solid Communication Techniques with Your Team

Have a plan with your crew concerning underwater communication before entering the water. Image via Rich Carey.

Shooting underwater is so much more than camera and gear. It’s also about knowing how to communicate well with your team. This includes your models, for when you’re photographing divers. “When shooting with models above water, it is easy to communicate simply by speaking. Underwater, we obviously don’t have that. Everything gets condensed down to sign language,” says Henn. Robbins underscored sign language saying, “Communication is typically in sign, so if I’m shooting a person, we discuss the plan in detail before submerging.”

Take note that communication isn’t only between you and fellow humans underwater. It’s also between you and your other subjects—such as marine life. Robbins says it helps to have prior knowledge on their behaviors and habitat—to have a good understanding of their “way of living” before you hit the waters and start photographing.

Discover even more tips for capturing incredible images in and around water:

Cover image via Solarisys.

The post Ultimate Guide to Shooting Videos and Photos Underwater appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

How the Travel Industry Is Visually Marketing Travel During COVID

Fri, 15 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

With travel and tourism industries shifting how they market travel during COVID-19 restrictions, explore how brands visually market travel.

The travel and tourism industry has faced an entirely new marketing landscape due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Few industries fell as fast as the travel and tourism industry did. As one of the hardest-hit industries globally, travel and tourism, for a while, became virtually non-existent. In fact, The World Travel and Tourism Council projects a global loss of seventy-five million jobs and $2.1 trillion in revenue.

Today, there continue to be global restrictions on travel, both locally and internationally. In this article, we’ll explore some trends we’re seeing in visually marketing travel. Discover how tourism and travel brands can continue to adapt to these changing and challenging times.

Visually representing travel looks a bit different than it did in the past. Image by DimaBerlin.

Trend #1: Smaller Budgets Mean Changing Content Strategies

In this report, it was noted that nearly 90% of travel marketers have diminished their budgets due to COVID-19. Where a travel marketer may have previously hired photographers and videographers to create highly-tailored, specific assets for their social media channels, revised budgets may not give them as much flexibility. Thus, more companies are turning to high-quality stock websites for travel photography.

Using Stock Image, Video, and Music Assets

Using stock allows businesses to produce new advertisements and social media posts, without needing to hire large-scale productions that may not be able to take place, depending on where they’re marketing. Offset, for example, has several high-ranking photographers with professional backgrounds ranging from experience at The New York Times to National Geographic. This is an excellent choice for companies searching for dynamic storytelling content that doesn’t look like a typical tourism photograph.

Popular destinations aren’t as busy, so visitors might catch themselves alone at once packed locations, such as this waterfall in Iceland. Image by biletskievgeniy.com.

Trend #2: Staying Active Remains Vital to Maintaining an Online Presence

For marketers, the response to a crisis is often to pause and rethink before acting. However, what we’re seeing in travel marketing are brands continuing to highlight their destinations visually, while also providing safe guidelines for what their current geographic location is allowing. An example of this is Destination British Columbia and their @HelloBC Instagram. While they’re still creating and sharing content with their community, they’re choosing to use their caption to highlight the current restrictions in place, as you can see by the following example. More and more travel marketers are following in this type of messaging, changing from “visit now” rhetoric to “visit later.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Destination British Columbia (@hellobc)

Trend #3: Virtual Experiences on the Rise

Not only are travel marketers adapting their messaging on social media platforms like Instagram, they’re also pivoting to provide completely new experiences to tourists who can’t physically travel due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Virtual experiences are on the rise. DMOs (Destination Marketing Organizations) are providing unique ways for their future tourists to enjoy their locations. This continues to engage audiences while adapting to the current situation. Here are a few examples of how brands can pivot and provide these types of experiences for their future visitors.

Examples of web design templates for promoting virtual travel. Vectors by PureSolution.

Virtual Tours: Using old, archive, or stock video clips, stitch together virtual “tours” through different cities. Showcase these virtual tours on Instagram or Facebook.
Local Takeovers: Give the reins of your Instagram or TikTok over to local chefs, celebrities, small business owners, and tour operators for them to virtually showcase their businesses to your audience.

Airbnb’s newly launched Online Experiences is a perfect example of this type of marketing. Taking their Experiences feature online, wanderlusting travelers can experience different cultures and destinations through online experiences with local experts.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Airbnb Experiences: Now Online (@airbnbexperiences)

Trend #4: Respond to Changing Restrictions with Quick Action

Government and local restrictions around the world are continually changing as we navigate this pandemic. It’s more important than ever to inform your audience about changes to restrictions in your area. Travel brands and DMOs are often on the frontline for visitors looking for information on whether or not they can travel to your location, so it’s essential to make that information easy-to-find. Brands should be utilizing features such as Instagram Highlights, Pinned Facebook Posts, and Twitter Pinned Posts to keep travel restrictions easily accessible for curious visitors. Pivoting quickly and addressing your customers’ concerns is the best way to keep visitors interested in traveling. Here are a few examples of areas that should be updated frequently.

Instagram Stories: Use this feature to provide up-to-date information on travel restrictions. Then, save it to your Instagram Highlights so visitors can find it easily. Use the Shutterstock Editor to easily create and save your favorite IG Story templates.
Pinned Facebook Posts: Pin your up-to-date travel restriction information to the top of your Facebook page. This makes it easy to find for visitors and locals looking for new travel information.

An example of this in action is @GoHawaii. The brand makes travel restrictions clear in their bio, as well as a helpful saved Instagram Highlight titled “Travel Alerts” where they post up-to-date information on new restrictions. Their campaign “Mālama Hawaii” promotes mindful travel to Hawaii during the COVID-19 pandemic using engaging visuals and dynamic video clips.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Hawaii (@gohawaii)

Trend #5: Tell Stories of Local Resilience

Another trend that we’re seeing a lot of in Destination Marketing Organizations is stories of local businesses adapting due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This type of emotional storytelling is engaging for both locals and travelers alike, showcasing how the local economy is truly adapting to the crisis. Using powerful visuals, it’s an emotion-driven way to connect with your audience near and far.

One example of this is Canadian brand Tourism Vancouver Island’s Storm Riders series, celebrating people who contribute to the tourism landscape on Vancouver Island and sharing their strength through visuals and blog posts. Travel marketers should combine this type of emotive storytelling to keep their audience connected to their brand.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by TVI ExploreVancouverIsland (@tourismvancouverisland)

Pro Tip: If you’re looking to create custom content for your brand, business, or DMO organization, you can also try Shutterstock Studios, our custom content powerhouse that connects high-quality production experts with over one million photographers and videographers across the world.

Trend #6: Create Content from the Heart

Carrying on from our last trend, human connection is what the world is craving now. As we spend time apart from friends and loved ones, people are searching for emotional connection in new ways. This type of communication encourages brands to provide transparent, honest, from-the-heart communication to their customers. Brands are being vulnerable about their struggles and communicating more with soul. The trend toward authenticity has been on the rise for the past decade—this is a deeper push in that direction.

One example we love is this open letter from Intrepid Travel CEO James Thornton. In it, he shares a transparent look into the company’s profits and crisis during the pandemic. Being more transparent with your customers breaks down the barriers between customer and organization, providing a human connection to your brand. In a sea of new businesses and increased competition, this is one way that brands can stand out and form genuine bonds with their audiences.

Another example of content from the heart is this video montage from Air New Zealand’s Instagram.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Air New Zealand (@airnz)

Pro Tip: You can create your own digital ad similar to this by using Shutterstock. Simply select your favorite video clips, select your music, stitch it together, and voilà, you’re ready to upload.

Add to your own visuals by incorporating Shutterstock’s library of illustrations and photography. Image by kuremo.

For more on industry trends, check out these articles:

Top image by Painterstock.

The post How the Travel Industry Is Visually Marketing Travel During COVID appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Capturing and Editing Dark and Moody Photography

Thu, 14 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Notable for its deep and dramatic tones, moody images are always captivating in their own ways. On one hand, dark and moody is the way to go when your shots don’t have good lighting. On the other, it’s the way to go when you want to create dramatic images with deep and intense emotions. Either way, it’s a vibe that today’s businesses are beginning to embrace.

The shadow-cast ocean at golden hour. Image via Pedro Fonseca Giafferis.

Shutterstock’s 2021 color trends includes tidewater green, a shade that definitely adds moodiness in a photo. But, this is so much more than a color trend. Moody processing or moody photography is here to prove that even when toning down the lighting, you can still end up with emotive and striking images that captures one’s attention and makes a statement. And, we’re going to deep-dive into how you can create exactly that.

On Camera

Create a Concept

A good image is all about having a good concept. No matter how perfect the lighting is or how expensive your gear is, if you didn’t spend enough time conceptualizing your shoot, you still won’t get the kind of images you’re hoping for. That applies to moody photos, as well. Whether you’re planning to shoot outdoors or in a studio, it’s best to allot energy and time in formulating the concept of your images.

In order to create a solid story, it must involve emotions. Image via everst.

Keep in mind that photography is an artform. It’s a way to tell a story. And, for a story to be good, it needs to have emotions.

This is one thing many photographers often miss. Don’t just focus on what stays in the frame and what doesn’t, or what angle you want to shoot. Those, too, are important. But, so are the emotions you pack into every still frame.

Shooting Wide Open Makes Soft Photos

Create moody images using a shallow depth of field. Image via Krivosheev Vitaly.

Large aperture, or commonly referred to as an open aperture, helps a lot in creating moody images. It gives you a shallow depth of field, a great element to have for this kind of shoot. Using a shallow depth of field simply means you will have a smaller area put in focus. This will blur the background but will keep the focused part of your image crisp—exactly what you want. For some, they may call this “dreamy feels,” which is quite accurate. Blurred background plus smaller, solid focus subject plus good lighting is definitely dreamy. And, as much as possible, have only one subject in your photo so you can really capitalize on the beauty of a wide open aperture.

Consider Dark Backgrounds

Create a moody feeling with a dark, moody background. Image via Frankie and Marília.

When prepping a shot list or conceptualizing your images, it’s best to go for dark backgrounds, mainly because they look perfect for moody shots. If you check Instagram for #folkphotography or the many other folk hashtags, you will notice that a lot of them are forest shots. This is because, while it’s an outdoor shoot, forests are basically greens and browns. These dark shades give that good moody feeling.

For indoor shoots—be it at home or in a studio—you have more control and it’s advisable to opt for a darker background. It doesn’t always have to be black or blue, nor does it always have to be plain, but knowing the background shade to use is helpful in achieving the outcome you want.

Know Your Lights

Make the most of your lighting. Image via Philippe Degroote / Addictive Creative.

Lights are super fun to play with. However, the thing about lighting is that it can be fun and challenging at the same time. Natural lights are harder to control, so you may want to shoot late afternoon during sunset. Yes, we’re talking about the golden hour. When manipulated correctly, it can give your image that darkness and dramatic effect every moody image needs. If you have access and if it fits the concept, you may also want to shoot at a location where there are dark shades, like thick, green leaves.

When doing an indoor shoot, seek a good source of natural light such as windows. This time, you don’t necessarily have to wait for late afternoons. But, you do have to know where to position your subject and where to position the camera. One directional light source is what you’re aiming for, having it cast on the side of your subject. Other light gears—like ring lights and fairy lights—can also help, especially if you’re really nailing the dark setting.

On Editing

Ease on the Exposure

For a moody vibe, play around with your camera settings. Image via kizuuuneko.

Dropping down the exposure is a good start to playing around with your camera settings to get a moody vibe. By doing so, you’ll notice that it’ll darken the image, which is what you’re aiming for. This step is pretty easy and always feel free to play around with the exposure tool in whatever editing software you’re using. But, despite it being a pretty easy step, it’ll have a massive impact on the moodiness of your shot.

Don’t Be Afraid to Use the Shadow Tool

Don’t be afraid to experiment with the shadow tool. Image via Andrea Quintero Olivas.

Another editing tool to play around with is the shadow tool. Obviously, this is all about adding or lessening the shadows in your image. Often, we’re too afraid to play around with the shadow tool, but for this type of image vibe, it’s highly advisable. Consider the shadow tool your new best friend. However, keep in mind that you’re aiming for moody, not just dark. You still want to preserve a good amount of light and color in your image.

And Also Vignette

The vignette tool can add a classic touch to any image. Image via FXQuadro.

We don’t use the vignette tool as often as others in basic editing, but it’s there because it helps. And, it can help create a dramatic effect on your image. This tool often works best for portrait shots—not so much on landscape shots. It’s just a matter of exploring and learning what tool works well for the kind of image you’re editing and what doesn’t.

Avoid Too Much Contrast

Create that dark, dramatic vibe through contrast. Image via LanaUst.

Lastly, we have the contrast. You’ll find this tool on Photoshop or Lightroom or basically any other photo editing software there is. And for good reason—contrast is super helpful in giving an image the effect you want it to have. For a dark and dramatic vibe, you’d want to dial down on the contrast and pay more attention to the shadows. This, of course, depends on the lights, shades, and overall look of your image. When necessary, don’t be afraid to increase the contrast a bit.

Cover image via Krivosheev Vitaly.

Learn more about nifty photography trends and creating your own style:

The post Capturing and Editing Dark and Moody Photography appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

A Look Into 2021: Our Mission to Help You Work Faster and Smarter

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 19:58:15 GMT

We’re laser focused on delivering enhanced integrations that will accelerate your workflow and put 350+ million creative assets at your fingertips

As we look ahead into 2021, employers continue to navigate this semi-permanent shift in the work world, making decisions for the future as best they can.

The good news is that 2020 proved that companies can adapt in order to benefit the health and safety of their workers — and many will continue to be flexible this year, too. In fact, a recent study from Office Depot found that 86% of employers surveyed said they are letting their employees decide when they return to on-site work, and most support strategies that may keep their employees safer and healthier.

Additionally, Google, which has led the tech industry with their remote-work decision making, recently sent an email to employees extending their work-from-home period until September 1, 2021.

Photo by Jacob Lund

When working from home, access to tools is critical

We all learned in 2020 that content workflow efficiencies are critical when working remotely, and this year will be no different. For marketers, designers, business leaders, and many others, being able to access relevant, rich-media quickly from within your creative and marketing tools stack is essential to increasing the quality of your content and productivity.

We also learned that having easy, secure, centralized access to the tools you use each day to collaborate, manage projects and execute on deliverables is just as important to getting work done. That’s why late last year we launched turnkey Single Sign-On integration (SSO) across the globe for our Premier customers. Centralizing Shutterstock access not only increases efficiency, but also enhances security for enterprise customers worldwide.

More flexibility, better results — wherever you create content

It’s no secret that flexibility is key throughout your remote workday — the ability to be nimble and quickly execute on deliverables is foundational to your success. That’s why we’re delivering on our promise to help accelerate your workflows by accessing Shutterstock wherever you create content.

Whatever your workflow and whichever content platforms you use — including internal systems and external sites — it’s our goal to help you connect to assets and find the most relevant content quickly. As just one example, our recent (free!) integration with WordPress includes an innovative real-time Smart Image Recommendation feature that suggests high-quality images based on the text you type. This means that content creators can quickly find the perfect Shutterstock image and instantly share their stories with the world — without ever having to leave the WordPress platform.

Shutterstock CEO Stan Pavlovsky called this integration a glimpse into our future. “It’s a great example of how we are leveraging our computer vision technology and API to quickly suggest relevant content to our users,” he said. “Our goal is to accelerate workflows and empower brands to inspire their audiences with engaging and compelling visual stories.”

Photo by Alex from the Rock

A look at the year ahead

In 2020, we were excited to launch a huge number of new integrations, including Okta, AuthO, Cloudinary, Microsoft, Woodwing, and many more.

In 2021, we look forward to bringing your team even more enhanced productivity tools to help you work faster and smarter. We’re currently pursuing a wide range of integration partners in the categories of Dynamic Creative Optimization, Enterprise Content Management, Media Asset Management partners and more.

We’re also enhancing our API offering to include advanced functionality like Smart Image Recommendations (already available in our WordPress integration) and Localized Search that can surface even more relevant content with GeoRanking. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

With these updates, creative teams can be even more efficient by gaining instant access to Shutterstock’s library of 350+ million images, videos and music tracks in more places than ever before.

Photo by Mila Supinskaya Glashchenko

Is your team ready for 2021?

As you consider ways to support your employees in 2021, we hope improved access to creative content is on your list of priorities. To help you evaluate opportunities to access Shutterstock assets more efficiently, we’ve compiled a list of all our integration partners. Many of these integrations are free to use if you’re already working with our platform partners.

To get started, check out the new Enterprise Integrations Directory and take the next step to unlocking the power of these integrations for your team today.

Here’s to a productive 2021!

To learn more about our existing Enterprise Integrations and find out how your team can take advantage of these workflow efficiencies visit www.shutterstock.com/business/enterprise-integrations or get in touch with our team directly at premierintegrations@shutterstock.com.

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Featured image by Jacob Lund

The post A Look Into 2021: Our Mission to Help You Work Faster and Smarter appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Get Creative with Valentine’s Day eCards: FREE Template Bundle

Wed, 13 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Bored of love hearts and weary of teddy bears? There’s more to Valentine’s cards than sentimental mush. Instead, why not choose an animal-themed card that celebrates that most romantic of prose—the humble pun.

This stylish bundle of three eCards can be shared as social posts, delivered over email, or sent via WhatsApp. Scroll down to download your FREE eCard template pack, and discover quick-start tips for opening, editing, and sharing your cards.

Nothing says “romance” more than an animal-themed pun.

What’s Included in Your FREE Valentine’s Template Pack

This FREE downloadable template pack contains three eCard designs that give a fun, animal-themed twist on the Valentine’s holiday. Simply pick your sweetheart’s favorite animal!

One of the three Valentine’s Day eCard designs.

Each of the three card designs are available in two different on-trend color palettes, giving you plenty of color choice.

The card designs are provided as editable EPS files and JPEG images. To edit color, graphics, or type on your card, you’ll need to have access to vector software, such as Adobe Illustrator or Adobe InDesign. You can share the JPEG versions straightaway.

Scroll down for instructions on how to open and edit your EPS templates using Adobe Illustrator.

Free eCard Pack Preview

Below, preview the three unique designs available in the FREE template pack. These eCards have been custom-designed exclusively for Shutterstock by our friends at Blue Whippet Studio, and feature each design in two on-trend color options.

All you need to figure out now is if your love interest is a cat person, dog person . . . or sheep person(?!).

How to Download Your FREE Valentine’s eCard Pack

Simply click the button below to download your freebie pack. Double-click the ZIP file to unpackage its contents. Inside the ZIP file, you’ll find two folders—one with EPS versions of the templates and the other with JPEG images of each design—sized to Instagram-friendly 1080 x 1080 pixels.

Read on to see our simple-to-follow instructions for editing your EPS templates below the download button.

This FREE download also includes a license document that covers the ways you can use these card designs. Plus, you’ll find a coupon that gives you a 15% off discount on Shutterstock images and footage.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE VALENTINE’S DAY CARD PACK HERE

By downloading this FREE template pack, you agree not to resell or redistribute these assets.

How to Open and Edit Your EPS eCards Using Adobe Illustrator

Step 1

Open the EPS folder inside the ZIP file you downloaded.

Inside the folder, open the EPS eCard Templates folder. Select the card you’d like to edit and open the EPS file in Illustrator.

Open the EPS eCard Templates folder and select preferred card.

Step 2

Right-Click > Ungroup the elements on the artboard.

Ungroup the elements on the artboard.

Once ungrouped, you can select and edit individual elements of the image. You can remove the pun (not that you’d want to, of course) and insert your own type, or edit the color of the background or illustration using the Swatches panel (Window > Swatches).

Select and edit individual elements of the image.

Step 3

Once you’ve finished editing your image, make sure the edges of the artboard align to the artwork by going to Object > Artboards > Fit to Artwork Bounds.

Make sure to align the artwork.

Step 4

To export your card as a JPEG or PNG image, go to File > Export > Save for Web.

Now, export your card as a JPEG or PNG image.

In the Save for Web window that opens, set the Width and Height of the image to 1024 px. Next, choose JPEG or PNG from the file type option at the top-right of the window. Then, click Save.

Awesome job! You can now share your eCard image with your valentine . . . or share the love and post it on your social media account.

Send it to your sweetheart or share it on social media.

In the Mood for Romance?

Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to get creative with romantic imagery, food, and designs. Discover more Valentine’s inspiration to make you swoon:

The post Get Creative with Valentine’s Day eCards: FREE Template Bundle appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

11 Tips for Successfully Shooting Your First Client Job

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Move into the freelance world with innovative ideas and techniques. Here’s a guide to shooting your first client job.

According to a recent survey of 2,000 Americans, the majority of us (71%) are focused on learning life skills and making practical goals for the new year, while 62% said they can’t wait to approach 2021 with a fresh mindset and renewed motivation. Even after a difficult year, many are feeling optimistic, while staying committed to fostering a positive outlook going forward.

These New Year’s resolutions will certainly resonate with many within the creative community, as over the past year, we’ve seen photographers around the world come up with innovative ideas, adapt their businesses, and pivot into freelance careers. For those just getting started with paid photography gigs, we compiled this quick guide to shooting your first client job.

1. Do Your Research

Research you client’s brand to generate ideas. Image by Yaroslav Danylchenko.

Most clients will send you a brief, and those can be invaluable, but the more material you can get, the better. It’s worth asking if your client has any brand-style guidelines, reference images, storyboards, etc. Familiarize yourself with the brand’s aesthetic and messaging. Study shoots they’ve done in the past, and think about how you can build on what they’ve already created.

Gather as much information as you can about the brand—their story, their visual branding, their marketing, etc. Take notes and ask questions. This research phase can also help you generate new ideas to pitch to your clients. You might be able to spot an opportunity they hadn’t recognized on their own.

2. Set Clear Prices and Expectations

Be clear about prices and licensing fees. Photo by Jared Lam.

Before going into a shoot, be crystal clear about your prices and what they include—whether you’re offering packages or charging a day rate. What about licensing fees on top of your day rate? Unless it’s a work-for-hire contract, you keep the copyright and can charge for usage. We recommend using a calculator (like the AOP Usage Calculator) for a ballpark estimate and then tailoring it to your shoot and client.

The most important thing is that the client knows exactly what they’ll pay, how many images they’ll get, and how they can use them. That way, you’ll avoid disappointment on either end. Factor in your expenses, as well. For example, many commercial photographers might charge rental fees when using their gear and equipment. Whatever you choose, stay upfront and honest with the client and keep the lines of communication open.

3. Create a Shot List and Mood Board

Share a shot list and mood board with your clients. Image by Kiko Jimenez / Westend61.

Speaking of communication, it can help to create a shareable shot list and mood board with your clients. Some will send their own mood boards and shot lists, but if they don’t, you can still send them your ideas to make sure you’re on the same page. The more references you have, the better.

A mood board will help you to visualize your idea for the styling, lighting, color palette, and overall atmosphere of a shoot. Meanwhile, a shot list can help you get specific about the shots you need, from wide shots to details. These should be tools you create together with your team and clients, so don’t be afraid to ask for their input and ideas.

4. Scout Your Location

Scout your location to prepare for the shoot. Image by Johnér.

Do a quick tech scout of your location to determine exactly what you’ll need on the day of the shoot. If possible, study the lighting possibilities (based on time of day), and take some test shots to get an idea of what to expect. You might realize the space is tighter than you expected, in which case you’ll know to bring a wider lens, or you could realize the natural window light isn’t enough and you need to bring your own equipment.

5. Double-Check Your Gear

Double-check your gear the day before the shoot. Image by dezy.

Speaking of equipment, do a final check of everything the day before the shoot. Make sure all your gear is in working order (including a computer and software for tethering) and pack spare and backup options just in case (a backup camera, extra batteries, SD cards, speedlights, etc.). Give everything a good cleaning before packing it up, and if you need to rent additional equipment, test it in advance. Make a checklist and check it twice.

Bonus tip: After your shoot, remember to back up your work in several places! It’s better to be safe than sorry.

6. Give Yourself Extra Time

On the day of the shoot, arrive early and make sure you’re organized. Image by Cavan Images.

On the day of the shoot, get there early (if you can) to set up and make sure everything is in order. Photoshoots have a habit of taking longer than expected, so give yourself a healthy buffer in case something goes wrong. Try not to set any time limits. On your first shoot, especially, you don’t want to rush. It can help to build a detailed schedule to go along with your shot list, with more than enough time planned for every shot on the list, as well as extras.

7. Meet Your Deadlines

Set reasonable deadlines, then follow through. Image by Sergii Sobolevskyi.

This one goes without saying, but only promise what you know you can deliver on time. Work with your client to set concrete, realistic deadlines, and then follow through. It’s always better to set a later deadline and surprise your clients with an early delivery than it is to overpromise and overshoot your deadline.

If the client has any changes after the shoot, deliver them in a timely manner. Being punctual goes a long way, whether you’re sending your final images or responding to an initial email. Clients want to know you’re available, so stay responsive and communicative.

8. Aim for Variety

Bring additional wardrobe, props, and background options. Image by Zolotarevs.

Your shot list is your priority, but you also want to give your client as many options as possible, so bring a few extra lenses for variety. Consider grabbing storytelling, documentary-style photos in-between posed shots, and move around to capture different perspectives and angles. Go wide, and then get close for details. If you can, bring a few wardrobe, prop, and background options. Brainstorm ways to go the extra mile and give your clients something they’ll love.

9. Mind the Details

Spot any issues with your props prior to the shoot. Image by susiefoods.

Details can make or break a shoot, so keep an eye out for any wrinkles or stains on clothing, distracting elements in the background, or even nail polish on your model. Give your props a quick cleaning to remove any smudges. Sure, some of these things can be fixed in post, but you don’t want to waste your time editing details you could’ve caught on set. By staying aware and focused, you can spot any issues before they pose a problem.

10. Make the Most of It

Expand your portfolio by experimenting with new images. Image by Eloisa Ramos / VISTA by Westend61.

Every client shoot poses the opportunity to grow your portfolio, so take advantage of any chance you get to try new things. If you already have gear rentals for a client shoot, why not create a smaller test shoot on your own time and then submit those personal photos to Shutterstock or Offset?

Depending on the project, you might be able to shoot for your portfolio simultaneously. You can always offer any additional photos to your client first and then license outtakes down the line. That way, you’re making the most of every shot.

11. Keep in Touch

Be kind and thoughtful in your interactions with your clients. Image by Alexandra C. Ribeiro / Westend61.

Great clients can become long-term collaborators and supporters, so nurture those relationships even after the shoot is over. Send a “thank you” note to show your appreciation, or ask for a review on your website. Word of mouth is a powerful marketing tool, so be kind and thoughtful in all your interactions. Your professionalism will inspire existing clients to become repeat customers, and it’ll also encourage them to recommend you to their friends and colleagues.

Cover image by Johnér.

The post 11 Tips for Successfully Shooting Your First Client Job appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Shutterstock and Printify Partner to Help Merchants Unlock Creativity and Boost Sales

Tue, 12 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

The new integration offers Printify merchants direct access to Shutterstock’s 350+ million image library and intuitive creative tools

As much of the workforce operates from home, merchants are increasingly expected to pivot, all while delivering great products and services that stand apart from the pack. That’s why many are relying heavily on digital platforms and creative tools to attract new customers and increase sales.

To help merchants successfully navigate these waters, Shutterstock is excited to announce a strategic partnership with Printify, the transparent print-on-demand network connecting merchants to print providers.

The partnership will offer merchants quick access to Shutterstock’s 350+ million image library and intuitive creative tools that will delight their customers and help drive potential sales.

Photo by Paul Prescott

Powering merchants with world-class content

This new partnership will provide Printify’s network of commercial merchants access to Shutterstock’s high-quality content library while offering additional creative opportunities for their customized products.

“We’re delighted to join forces with a partner like Printify,” said Carolin Schreiber, Director of Strategic Partnerships at Shutterstock. “Our goal is to help merchants wow their customers with exceptional products, and we’re thrilled to give Printify’s network an artistic boost by providing fast access to Shutterstock’s world-class content library and our intuitive Editor.”

Easily search and customize images from within Printify

Artwork is a significant driver of sales for these shopkeepers, and the ability to quickly search and customize imagery is anticipated to significantly increase profitability. The Shutterstock/Printify integration is also easy for those with little or no design experience, professional equipment or artistic background to use.

Here’s how it works:

Step 1: Easily search 350+ million Shutterstock images by keyword, image type, orientation and more directly from within Printify.

Step 2: Edit and customize images for specific products like sweatshirts, mugs, hats, t-shirts and more.

Step 3: Publish, sell and delight customers!

An accelerated integration through Shutterstock UI

To expedite the integration process, Printify also leveraged Shutterstock UI, which offers ready-to-use code snippets that are designed to cover the majority of user workflow scenarios and accelerate the image discovery experience.

As a first step in the workflow, merchants can access Shutterstock’s vast library of images right within the Printify platform. Users can search by keyword, image type, orientation and more to find inspiring images that will appeal to potential customers.

Once a user has selected an image they’d like to use, Printify has incorporated the Shutterstock Editor, an easy-to-use online editing tool, as the next step in the workflow.

An intuitive photo editing experience from within Printify

The Shutterstock Editor allows anyone to crop images, upload their logo, add text, filters and more. See here:

The image editing features available include:

Crop
13 filters
Brightness
Saturation
Colorify
Contrast
Hue rotation
Temperature
Exposure
Vignette
Blur
Borders
Alignment
Horizontal and vertical flip
And more

The Editor also provides lossless scaling for images so that designs look equally good when printed on posters, hats, t-shirts, mugs, phone cases and more.

An artistic boost for all Printify merchants

“Integrating the Shutterstock API was the easiest way to increase the capabilities of our product creation process,” said Printify Product Manager François Xavier Cardi. “The documentation is amazing, support is super responsive, and it provides excellent feedback. The Editor and the Shutterstock UI enhance merchant experiences without increasing implementation times.”

This will be the first integration added to Printify’s core product to further simplify the product design process and help drive sales for merchants.

To learn more about Shutterstock’s integration with Printify, contact us here.

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Featured image Nataliya Peregudova

The post Shutterstock and Printify Partner to Help Merchants Unlock Creativity and Boost Sales appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

15+ FREE Household-Inspired Sound Effects and Room Tones

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 15:45:25 GMT

This FREE SFX pack is filled with hums and drums you might hear inside your home. Includes four clips of room tones for you to use today!

This FREE SFX pack comes with all types of cleaning, pets, or other hums and drum sounds you might hear inside your own home. We’ve also included four clips of room tones for you to use in any situation!

Whether you’re making a tutorial from your bedroom, editing a television show or documentary, or just need some background foley for a scene, these sound effects will give you the added production value you need. Stopping production to record specific sound effects can slow down your shoot. Bypass this frustration with this all-encompassing sound effect pack.

DOWNLOAD THE FREE HOUSEHOLD SOUNDS PACK HERE

By downloading, you agree not to resell or redistribute these free assets.

Getting the Most out of SFX

Like any sound effect, when left alone they can often sound a little rough. So, it’s best to throw in music underneath, or with the room tone to lower the decibels and have the clips fill the silent void playing underneath your footage. The pack is filled with tracks that can play the part of background noise, whether it’s washing dishes, vacuuming the floor, or just the sound of your dog barking in the distance. Never be afraid to throw in as many sounds as you can to fill the spaces.

Additional Free Packs and DIY Tips

If you’re interested in our complete kitchen sound effect pack, check out over fifty sounds below!

Or, if you’re interested in how to record sound effects from your home instead, our own Anthony Najera recently created a tutorial for creating DIY SFX. Discover what you need, how to approach the sounds, and how to edit them once you’ve recorded everything.

Fun tip: You really only need your phone to grab quality audio for the sound effects you might have missed on the day of the shoot.

Cover image via Dusan Petkovic.

If you’re looking for more FREE sound effects and music, check out our previous freebies below:

The post 15+ FREE Household-Inspired Sound Effects and Room Tones appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

Learn to Create and Work with Seamless Textures

Mon, 11 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

Often unsung heroes of the designer’s toolkit, seamless textures have a multitude of uses for web, print, and 3D design.

Here, you’ll learn how seamless textures can help you bring your design A-game, adding realism and professionalism to a range of layouts. You’ll also find a quick and simple tutorial for creating pro-standard seamless textures—from stock images or your own photos.

A website layout using a green marble seamless texture by contributor Amelia Austin.

What Are Seamless Textures?

Seamless textures are images that have no visible boundaries or edges, allowing the image to be tiled invisibly across a large area. Designers will often seek out or create seamless textures to act as consistent backgrounds or overlay textures.

A range of high-resolution seamless textures on the Shutterstock library.

While commonly referred to as “textures,” these images tend to be flat, 2D images (such as JPEGs), which can be used on their own (as in web and print design) or layered with other JPEGs or texture “maps” for photorealistic 3D renders. The images can be plain or patterned, but generally have elements that can be easily repeated without the risk of the image looking artificially enlarged.

You can make your own seamless textures by editing a source image in software like Adobe Photoshop, or find ready-made seamless textures on the Shutterstock library.

When Should I Use Seamless Textures?

3D artists and users of CAD are familiar with the benefits of seamless textures for creating ultra-realistic renders of products, furniture, and environments. Print and web designers, however, will also find seamless textures indispensable for large-scale layouts. They can bring realism and a seamless, professional look to websites, posters, signage, or CAD designs.

Textures that can function as seamless backgrounds are useful for any design that requires an image to extend across all or most of the layout. They really come into their own on responsive websites and apps that need to adapt to different screen widths.

Responsive web layouts really make the most of large-scale, seamless textures, which can be adapted for various screen dimensions and can also give scrolling layouts a uniform background from header to footer. Background image by contributor Amelia Austin.

You can also find a use for seamless textures in other types of design that have particularly wide or tall dimensions, such as magazine spreads, posters, infographics, web banners, book covers, menus, or event banners. Once you discover how easy it is to pull a layout together with a seamless background, you’ll never look back!

Below, discover how to create your own seamless textures in just six simple steps using Photoshop.

How Do I Create My Own Seamless Textures?

Seamless textures are easy to create using a source image and access to image-editing software, such as Photoshop. You can use your own photo, or start with a stock image that you’d like to extend.

Here, I’m going to use this photo as a basis for creating a much larger, seamless texture. We’ll need to even out the lighting and make sure the image is completely straight, before tiling the image in a way that suits the particular pattern of the stones.

Example image used in this tutorial. Image by contributor Fedorov Oleksiy.

You can follow the same process for any source image you want to use, or download this image to follow along with the steps exactly.

Step 1: Straighten the Image

After opening the image in Photoshop, duplicate the Background layer to preserve a copy of the original image.

In Photoshop, duplicate the background image.

The first stage of prepping your base image is to straighten it. This tip applies to images that contain any visual lines running vertically or horizontally, such as patterns or images of bricks, wire, or woven fabric.

Use the guides pulled out from the rulers (View > Rulers) to mark out vertical and horizontal points across the image before rotating the image to make sure it perfectly aligns to these.

Align vertical and horizontal points in the image.

Step 2: Crop the Image

Some images, such as this one, will have elements that cut across the edge of the image. In this case, half-cut stones won’t allow us to tile the image seamlessly, so identify the area of the image that can be repeated without losing any bits of elements. Use the Crop Tool (C) to crop out any outlying edges.

Use the Crop Tool to crop out any unwanted edges.

Step 3: Create Consistent Lighting

Even out the light and shade in your source image to create a consistent result. Even better, aim to eliminate any strong differences between light and shade across the image. The border areas of your image are particularly important to even out, as these are the touch-points for the tiling of your texture.

Go to Image > Adjustments > Shadows/Highlights.

Even out light and shade by adjusting the Shadow/Highlights.

Adjust the Shadows/Highlights sliders until the amount of light and shade evens out across the whole image.

There are several options to choose from when adjusting Shadow/Highlights.

Step 4: Enlarge the Canvas

Use the Crop Tool (C) to extend the canvas horizontally and vertically, tripling the width and height of the artboard overall.

Extend the canvas horizontally and vertically.

Step 5: Tile the Image

Select the image’s layer in the Layers panel and duplicate the layer, moving the copy over to the right. Rather than placing the copy at the right edge of the original, look for the natural place where the image will fit to create a seamless effect. This is more important for images that feature patterns, bricks, or other repeatable elements.

Here, I slot the bricks into the place where they would naturally fit, aligning the copy seamlessly over the original.

Aligning the duplicate copies.

Select both image layers in the Layers panel and duplicate the pair. Move these along to the right and, as before, map the copies seamlessly over the originals.

Map the copies over the originals.

Select all of the image layers in the Layers panel and duplicate these, moving them above the original images, then slotting the texture into place.

Move the textures into place.

Repeat until the whole canvas is filled.

Repeat this process until the entire canvas is filled.

If you have any areas that appear a little out of sync, use the Spot Healing Brush (J) to drag over the areas and patch up any odd spots.

Step 6: Adjust the Whole Texture

In the Layers panel, create a new folder and place all of the image layers inside this.

Create a new folder in the Layers panel.

Then, switch the blending mode of the folder from Pass Through to Normal. This will allow you to add an adjustment layer above the other image layers and apply the effect to all of the layers, treating them as one seamless image.

Switch the Blending Mode from Pass Through to Normal.

Try using a Curves or Levels adjustment layer to bring more depth and tone back into the image.

Bring additional depth and tone into your image with the Curves or Levels adjustment layer.

When you’ve finished working on your texture, you can File > Save As the image as a JPEG, ready to use in a print or web project. Great job!

Conclusion: The Transformative Power of Seamless Textures

They’re one of the best kept secrets of professional designers, and for good reason—seamless textures unify large layouts, giving them depth, interest, and an immersive feel.

Now that you have the know-how to create your own seamless textures, you can use your images as backgrounds or overlays for a wide range of designs, from websites to posters.

Still looking for that perfect seamless texture to bring extra edge to your layouts? Discover thousands of high-resolution textures and ready-made seamless backgrounds in the Shutterstock library.

Find more Adobe Photoshop tutorials, as well as top tips for working with backgrounds:

Cover background image via Amelia Austin.

The post Learn to Create and Work with Seamless Textures appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

9 Mental Health Advocates to Celebrate, Then and Now

Fri, 08 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

From past to present, we celebrate advocates who made indelible contributions to their communities concerning mental health.

“For nearly 30 years—most of my adult life—I have struggled with depression and anxiety,” Andrew Solomon wrote for The New York Times during the coronavirus shutdowns in April 2020. “While I’ve never felt alone in such commonplace afflictions—the family secret everyone shares—I now find I have more fellow sufferers than I could have ever imagined.”

As he explained, COVID-19 was a double-edged crisis. While many were focused on the virus’s implications for physical health, fewer adequately addressed the fact that it would also have repercussions for our mental health. The second is a conversation that we must continue going into 2021 and the coming years, as individuals, communities, and nations.

While 2020 was a difficult year, it was also a time when people came together to help each other. This fall, the World Health Organization (WHO) hosted their first-ever online advocacy event for mental health, bringing together activists, world leaders, and celebrities to highlight one of the most critical issues affecting global health. Taraji P. Henson started a new mental health series on Facebook Watch. Andrew Solomon shared his experiences and lent comfort to those experiencing depression for the first time.

Throughout the last few months, as people and organizations navigated discussions about mental health and came together to find solutions, many of us looked to the people who paved the way over the last half-century, from lawyers to writers, for guidance and insight. Below, we celebrate just a handful of advocates, past and present, who made indelible contributions to their communities and helped shift the conversation around mental health.

1. Andrew Solomon

Andrew Solomon, author of the book The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression. Image via Jennifer Weisbord/Shutterstock.

In 2001, Andrew Solomon published The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression, his tour de force book on depression, featuring autobiographical elements, as well as interviews with individuals, doctors, scientists, policymakers, and more. Today, he’s a leading writer and lecturer on psychology, politics, and the arts, as well as a mental health advocate and LBGT rights activist.

Photographer Jennifer Weisbord created this portrait of Andrew Solomon the same year The Noonday Demon hit the shelves. “I remember being excited about the juxtaposition of the way Andrew was dressed against Lady Mendl’s Tea and Inn,” she tells us. “I didn’t know much about Andrew at the time, only that he had come out of a depression and had written a book. After meeting him, I went and read a piece of his in The New Yorker and remember thinking, ‘He’s brilliant.’ Mental health stories are so important. They were then, and they are now.”

Andrew Soloman at a book reading at Lady Mendl’s Tea and Inn in New York, May 2001. Image via Jennifer Weisbord/Shutterstock.

Solomon has devoted much of his life to the importance of sharing these stories out loud. “It was not easy laying myself so bare, and it hasn’t always been a comfortable situation,” he once told PBS. “But I believe that the stigma attached to mental illness is making it harder and worse for people who are ill. And, the best way to break down that stigma is for those who can to make public declarations about their struggles.”

2. Taraji P. Henson

Taraji P. Henson arrives at the 71st Primetime Emmy Awards at the Microsoft Theater in Los Angeles. Image via Jordan Strauss/AP/Shutterstock.

The actor, entrepreneur, author, and mental health advocate Taraji P. Henson is the founder of The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, a non-profit named after her father and built on a commitment to changing perceptions of mental illness within the African-American community. In addition to providing mental health support in schools, encouraging people to seek help, and working to reduce the prison recidivism rate, the organization aims to boost the number of African-American therapists through scholarships.

In addition to acting, Taraji P. Henson is an author, entrepreneur, and mental health advocate. Image via Jordan Strauss/AP/Shutterstock.

Beyond her work at The Boris Lawrence Henson Foundation, Henson now heads up a new series on Facebook Watch called Peace of Mind With Taraji, where she and Tracie Jade, the Executive Director of the Foundation, speak with experts and celebrities about mental health issues, awareness, and advocacy.

“It’s OK to not be OK,” the actor told the Associated Press in October, after being honored by the Ruderman Family Foundation for her work in combating the stigma surrounding mental health. “Tell someone. Your vulnerability is actually your strength.”

3. Elyn Saks

Mental health lawyer Elyn Saks poses for a photo at the University of Southern California Gould School of Law library in Los Angeles. Image via Damian Dovarganes/AP/Shutterstock.

“I did not make my illness public until relatively late in life, and that’s because the stigma against mental illness is so powerful that I didn’t feel safe with people knowing,” Elyn Saks, a law professor at USC, said in a 2012 TED Talk. “If you hear nothing else today, please hear this: There are not ‘schizophrenics.’ There are people with schizophrenia, and these people may be your spouse. They may be your child. They may be your neighbor. They may be your friend. They may be your coworker.”

A professor at USC, Elyn Saks’s memoir The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness is a recipient of the MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant.” Image via Damian Dovarganes/AP/Shutterstock.

As a young woman, Saks was diagnosed with schizophrenia and told her prognosis was “grave.” Today, she’s a Chair Professor of Law, Psychology, and Psychiatry at the USC Gould School of Law, a leading voice in mental health law, and the recipient of a MacArthur Foundation “Genius Grant.”

In 2007, she published her groundbreaking memoir The Center Cannot Hold: My Journey Through Madness. The book encouraged others with the same diagnosis to speak up and participate in research projects. The money she earned from the MacArthur grant went into the founding of the Saks Institute for Mental Health Law, Policy, and Ethics.

4. Chris Sizemore

Chris Sizemore, subject of the 1957 movie The Three Faces of Eve and advocate for the mentally ill, poses before speaking to a local chapter of the Mental Health Association in Oklahoma City. Image via David Longstreath/AP/Shutterstock.

“Chris Sizemore is the woman on whom the 1957 movie The Three Faces of Eve was based,” photographer David Longstreath tells us. He created this portrait in 1983, after Sizemore had gone public with her story and diagnosis of dissociative identity disorder. In the 1970s, her personalities were unified, and she spent much of the rest of her life as a painter and an advocate for others with mental health challenges.

Longstreath made this photo while working as a news photographer for the Daily Oklahoman. Sizemore was preparing to give a lecture in Oklahoma City at the time. “The mental health aspect is something that has drawn me back to this image over time,” the photographer tells us. “I am a thirty-year wire service photographer. If you visit my website, you will see several posts along with photos of my duty in the first Gulf War, Afghanistan, and the Asian Tsunami.’

“After the first Gulf War, I was diagnosed with PTSD from all the stress and war images I made in Kuwait. The scale of death I saw and photographed during the Asian Tsunami, however, was never treated. I have thought about Chris Sizemore as I, too, often feel like there are numerous demons living in my brain.”

Like Sizemore, Longstreath has also been able to build a peaceful and serene life with family. He tells us, “I am retired now, living in Chiang Mai, Thailand in a quiet community with two of my three Thai children.”

5.Kay Redfield Jamison

In 1995, the clinical psychologist Kay Redfield Jamison published her stunning memoir An Unquiet Mind about her experiences living with manic depressive illness—now known as bipolar disorder—revolutionizing the field in the process.

Dr. Kay Redfield Jamison at the 2nd Annual Silver Ribbon Gala 2 Benefit NARSAD. Image via Alex Berliner/BEI/Shutterstock.

“I was first told that I had manic depressive illness, as it was called then, when I was in my mid-twenties, when I saw a psychiatrist for the first time,” she’d later reflect. “I had trained clinically, and when he said that I had manic depressive illness, I was both terrified and relieved, but I also knew that what he said was true.”

By the time she wrote the book, she was already one of the world’s foremost experts on the subject and a professor of psychiatry at Johns Hopkins Medical School. Today, she’s the director of the Johns Hopkins Mood Disorders Center and the author of several landmark books. She’s devoted much of her life to battling the stigma around mental illness and encouraging early treatment and education.

6. Demi Lovato

Demi Lovato poses for a portrait to promote her new album, Tell Me You Love Me, in New York. Image via Brian Ach/Invision/AP/Shutterstock.

For much of her time in the public eye, actor and singer Demi Lovato has helped erase the stigma around mental health issues by discussing her own experiences, as well as mentoring others living with mental health challenges. In April of 2020, she helped launch The Mental Health Fund to help those struggling during the Covid-19 pandemic. Brian Ach photographed Lovato in 2017 amid the promotion of her new album, Tell Me You Love Me, during which time the star also hosted wellness sessions for fans before select performances.

“I do a lot of celebrity portraits, both in studio and on site, and I was assigned to shoot this portrait of Demi by Invision/AP,” the photographer remembers. “Demi is a great performer, super voice, and a fierce personality. I had covered her at events and in concert before, but this was the first time I had shot a portrait.’

“Demi is friendly and direct—just how I like it! Usually, I don’t have much time with subjects, and this was no different—probably less than ten minutes max. The one thing about Demi is that when you actually get down to business and start shooting, she takes direction and is completely present. Not distracted, not thinking about something else, but totally there in the moment. It’s great, and it’s just how she is as a performer and human being.’

Singer Demi Lovato performs the National Anthem at the NFL’s Super Bowl LIV, at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, February 2, 2020. Image via LARRY W SMITH/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock.

“The thing about mental health, mental healthcare, and mental health awareness that needs to change is the fact that unlike other diseases, there is a stigma surrounding it. Everything is hush hush and whispers and sidelong glances, gossip columns and torch articles. This needs to stop. The problem with mental health is that we don’t talk about mental health. It is a self-perpetuating cycle. Mental health conditions are treatable through many different therapies. I have had my own mental health issues through my time on earth, and sometimes all it takes is someone to listen to you. It’s time we all listen.”

7. Brandon Marshall

NFL player Brandon Marshall, co-founder of Project 375, speaks at the “Beyond the Physical: A Symposium on Mental Health in Sports,” hosted by the NFL, NFL Players Association, and Cigna at Georgia Tech Hotel and Conference Center, in Atlanta, Georgia. Image via Todd Kirkland/AP/Shutterstock.

Former NFL football player Brandon Marshall has spoken out about the importance of mental health for a decade, starting when he was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder while receiving treatment at McLean Hospital in Belmont, Massachusetts. It was then that he realized, in his own words, that football wasn’t his purpose but his platform.

“It’s cool scoring touchdowns,” he told the Associated Press Pro Football Podcast in November. “It’s cool making it to the NFL. That was an amazing journey. But, when you are in a position to potentially save a life, that’s a phenomenal experience.”

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Brandon Marshall gestures before an NFL football game against the Chicago Bears in Chicago. Image via David Banks/AP/Shutterstock.

Today, Marshall speaks often about mental health. Along with his wife Michi, he’s also the founder of Project 375, a foundation promoting awareness and eradicating the stigma. “When my NFL career is over, I will have left a legacy on the field—one that hopefully includes a Super Bowl ring,” he wrote for the Players’ Tribune in 2017. “But, my most enduring legacy will be my contributions to the mental health community.”

8. Rosalynn Carter

Then Georgia State Sen. Jimmy Carter hugs his wife, Rosalynn, at his Atlanta campaign headquarters. Image via Horace Cort/AP/Shutterstock.

Rosalynn Carter has been an advocate for mental health for more than fifty years, beginning when her husband was Governor of Georgia, continuing through her time as First Lady of the United States, and until today. Her lifelong passion for advocacy began in 1966, when she happened to meet a woman working at a cotton mill while also caring for her daughter, who had mental health challenges. That same night, she asked her husband what he was doing to address mental health issues.

Rosalynn Carter speaks to her husband, President Jimmy Carter, prior to signing an executive order establishing a Presidential Commission on Mental Health, in the East Room of the White House in Washington. Image via Charles Tasnadi/AP/Shutterstock.

In her role as honorary chair of the President’s Commission on Mental Health, Carter was instrumental in the Mental Health Systems Act of 1980, a landmark legislation providing grants for community health centers. Five years later, she launched the Rosalynn Carter Symposium on Mental Health Policy. By 1996, she’d created the Rosalynn Carter Fellowships for Mental Health Journalism to dismantle the stigma surrounding mental illness. In 2010, she released her book Within Our Reach: Ending the Mental Health Crisis.

Rosalynn Carter testifies before the Senate Subcommittee on Health, May 15, 1979, to lobby for the Mental Health Systems Act. It passed in Sept. 1980. Image via Everett/Shutterstock.

9. Donna and Phillip Satow

Donna and Phillip Satow sit beside a photograph of their late son, Jed, at the Satow’s SoHo apartment and office in New York. Image via Tina Fineberg/AP/Shutterstock.

Since the death of their youngest son Jed in 1998, Donna and Phillip Satow have worked to prevent suicide, which remains a leading cause of death among young adults. The Jed Foundation, launched in 2000 in Jed’s honor, is now one of the leading mental health organizations in the nation.

Their goals are for every high school and college to have a comprehensive system to support emotional health, to equip teens and young adults to navigate mental health challenges and seek help, and to see mental health recognized as part of general health and wellness, free from shame or secrecy.

Learn even more about how imagery can help fight stigma about mental and physical heath issue.

Cover image via Everett/Shutterstock.

The post 9 Mental Health Advocates to Celebrate, Then and Now appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

How to Get Your Photos Published Digitally or in Print

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 13:00:00 GMT

There’s nothing quite like getting your photos published, whether it’s an editorial shoot featured within the pages of a glossy magazine or a photo accompanying a breaking news story. There’s a rewarding sense of accomplishment seeing your work come to life online or in print.

However, the path to getting your work published isn’t always that easy. Producing high-quality photos in what is a highly-competitive industry doesn’t necessarily equate to getting published. Being a professional photographer is as much about being business savvy as it is about the photos you produce. How you sell yourself and your photos can set you apart and determine your success.

Learning how to pitch and get noticed is key to getting published. Offset image by Joseffson / Westend61.

Working hard is key, and working smart can see the return of your efforts multiply. We spoke to four successful photographers spanning the globe from Australia, South Korea, Ukraine, and the United States, who shared actionable tips and strategies to get recognized and published.

How to Develop a Successful Pitch

Pro Tip: Compile a List of Contacts

Getting your work in front of the right sets of eyes can be the difference between getting your photos published or not. To ensure you’re targeting the right brands and publications, it’s essential to determine your compatibility.

Do your styles match? Do they feature photos in your genre or subject matter? Do you have brand compatibility? These are the kinds of questions adventure photographer Nicolás Marino automatically asks himself before deciding who to work with.

“I probably wouldn’t pitch Vogue the images I took of gold miners in the middle of the Sahara Desert,” the Perth-based photographer explains. “I look for clients and publications that somehow align with my interests and my line of work.”

While being accommodating with potential publications or clients is necessary for establishing a compatible working relationship, it should never compromise your vision, values, or beliefs. “I will reach out to publications that align more or less with my view of the world,” he continues. “I try to avoid selling my work to publications that may use my images to convey a message that I’m in conflict with or flat-out against it.”

Determining your compatibility with potential prospects is an essential first step to getting published. Offset image by Nicolas Marino/ Mauritius Images.

Pro Tip: Understand the Client or Publication’s Needs

Regardless of who you are vying to work with, it’s essential to determine and understand their needs. Establishing what they need from you enables you to craft your pitch to meet those needs. It allows you to make informed decisions about what photos to highlight and how to sell them.

Having worked in a newsroom, Nashville-based Editorial photographer Laura Thompson learned first-hand the importance of considering the needs of an editor and its role in getting published.

“From working at the New York Daily News, I learned that editors are busy people—they have a small window of time to select photos, limited space to include photos, and budgets they have to stick to,” Thompson explains.

“Editors need photos that will work in a variety of placements on a print page or online article. They also like to see a full story in one image,” she continues. “You can almost always improve a photo by taking three steps back—a photo can always be cropped in, but you can’t recover a lost scene. The more context, the better.”

Understanding the needs of your target publication or client is a requisite in meeting those needs. Editorial image by Laura Thompson/Shutterstock.

Pro Tip: Identify and Fill Gaps in the Coverage

Whether you’re covering inauguration day or taking product photos, take into consideration that you’re competing with thousands of other images, and an editor or client only selects one. Being strategic about what you cover and how you cover it is key to cutting through the noise and giving your photos a creative edge. Photographer Laura Thompson establishes a need for her photos by identifying holes in an outlet’s coverage and takes photos to fill them.

“The question I’m constantly asking myself is: ‘What can I provide that an outlet doesn’t already have access to?'” Thompson tells us.

“I look for story angles that outlets aren’t covering or don’t have, while on an assignment. I look at what other photographers are overlooking and position myself accordingly on a shoot,” she continues. ”I anticipate the moment, and I work for the shot, sometimes waiting an hour for all the elements of a good composition to line up.”

Shoot unique and strategically to become a solution to a client or publication’s need. Editorial image by Laura Thompson/Shutterstock.

Pro Tip: Curate Your Pitch

Sending blanket pitches might save you time, but what good is saved time if you don’t accomplish anything? Be sure to personalize your emails by addressing the decision-makers by name and include information and work you know is relevant to that specific brand or publication. South Korea-based photographer Yeongsik Im always factors in research and time when curating his pitch.

“I spend a lot of time thinking about which photos to showcase in my pitch that is applicable to that specific client,” he explains. “I research the client, decide what they need, and provide stock photos with the most competitive features.”

If clients can see you have taken the time to invest in them, they are much more likely to invest in you. Image by Yeongsik Im.

How to Get Noticed

Pro Tip: Expand Your Reach via Stock Agencies

Visibility is essential in getting your photos noticed and published. Submitting your work to a stock agency gives you global visibility, meaning more opportunities to make sales.

“Stock image outlets are always helpful to reach the eyes of tens of thousands of potential clients that you couldn’t even dream of reaching on your own,” photographer Nicolás Marino explains. “Shutterstock is a great vessel to serve that purpose.”

“As photographers, we need to get our work out there to be seen by others, at least if you intend to make a living out of photography,” he continues. “Without visibility, your chances are none.”

Pro Tip: Choose a Niche That Is Also Your Passion

Work in a field of photography that you love. Stock image by biletskiyevgeniy.com.

Marrying your passion and line of photography is not only good for the soul, it’s beneficial to your work. Ukraine-based landscape photographer Evgeniy Biletskiy says aligning his specialization with his passion outside of work allows him to channel all his efforts on his photography and excel in it.

“When you find your niche or specialization, and it’s also your passion, you can give all your energy to it,” Biletskiy explains. “When you love what you do, it shows in your work.”

“Photography is my work and my hobby. There is no division—it is all connected for me,” he continues. “I chose landscape photography because I love nature very much. I never think about when I have to go to work because I’m already there. This is my life.”

For more tips on becoming a professional photographer, check out these additional articles:

Top image by wattana.

The post How to Get Your Photos Published Digitally or in Print appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

The Top 5 Photography Trends Anticipated for 2021

Thu, 07 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

In 2021, photography will see a dramatic shift towards emotional storytelling, realness, and a return to nature. Here’s our top trends.

Every year, visual trends emerge that challenge what we thought was popular and well-liked, and motivate us to innovate and try new things when it comes to photography and photojournalism. Covid-19 changed how visual arts and freelance artists worked, and our photographers had to adapt to the changing times, too. How production took place, and how visual imagery was created, drastically shifted in this new normal. Big teams became smaller, and production became localized. In 2020, stock photography saw a boom as more and more creatives looked to license their imagery in innovative ways.

Today’s article explores five new photography trends that we anticipate seeing in 2021, along with tips on how creatives can market and challenge these new trends with the imagery they create.

Photography in 2021 will provide a behind-the-scenes look into the creation of visuals. Image by Nejron Photo.

1. Authenticity Stripped Down

Authenticity is nothing new. For years, authenticity (hello #liveauthentic) has rained strong on social media and marketing platforms. However, if there’s anything that this pandemic has taught us, it’s that life’s essential moments have merits. In 2021, we anticipate a resurgence of authenticity, but even more raw than we’ve seen in the past. The essentials are what we’re focused on now, and coronavirus has given us time to reflect on the things that matter the most.

Realness takes on a whole new meaning in 2021. Image by Natalia Deriabina.

Stripping down to the bare bones of who we are will translate visually through emotional photography that tells stories. People around the world are adjusting to this new normal, and feelings of isolation are on the rise. As such, people are going to turn to visuals to show a less glamorized version of who we are. Instead, people will look to photographic visuals to showcase real life in all its gory glory. Less makeup, less editing, and more emotional moments captured as they happen. In stock, we see this trend in all forms of marketing. Not just messy homes, but chaotic lives unfolding in front of the lens.

Explore more images from The “Unfiltered” Aesthetic image collection.

2. Togetherness

2020 was the year for tough conversations, and conversations that were long overdue. From the much-deserved spotlight of the Black Lives Matter movement to the continued conversations about diversity and inclusion for the long game, 2020 was about remembering we’re all in this together. In the past few years, an increasingly large amount of visual trends focused on empowering minorities and marginalized communities. However, we don’t anticipate this going anywhere this year. 2021 is going to be about togetherness and community, forming those bonds even deeper—ones we worked to create and maintain in 2020.

Togetherness in all forms. Image by GobMetha.

Amplifying issues of systemic racism, visual imagery will modernize through photography, showing a world together as a whole. Beyond genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and body types as differentiating factors in visual imagery, we see 2021 visual imagery as not just inclusive of these terms, but mandatory to depict the real world we live in. In 2021, we anticipate and hope that creatives will continue to depict a world of togetherness and inclusion in all visual imagery submitted to the Shutterstock marketplace.

3. Dramaticized Normality

As kind of a juxtaposition to the authentic and realness trend, we’re also depicting a flip side of this with an increasing emphasis on vividly dynamic and intense imagery. Emotion is deeply important to photography, and in a visual world that has been dominated by minimalism and simple styles in recent years, we anticipate a movement back to powerful studio imagery that shows high-impact and technical skills in photography.

Normal situations made impactful through visual imagery, editing, and styling. Image by Street style photo.

In stock, we discourage heavy photography manipulation that seems in-genuine. However, this doesn’t mean that an image can’t be enhanced through colorful props, bold colors, and an intense story that leaves you wondering, “What exactly is this image?”

In this visual trend, we see photographs with high contrast and a significant focus on the subject of the photo. The backdrop adds depth, and how the image tells a complex and compelling story leaves the viewer in complete and total awe.

4. Natural Moments in Nature

If Taylor Swift’s Folklore and Evermore albums are telling of visual trends, it’s that a return to nature is what we all need. In this visual trend, we anticipate a return to the soft flow of a natural landscape in visual imagery. Whether you’re creating product, fashion, lifestyle, or travel imagery, less is more with this trend. Let the backdrop of your surroundings speak for itself.

We look to nature for a sense of peace and serenity. Image by Cristina Conti.

Nature allows the viewer to return to the environment. It focuses on the beauty of the world without a focus on the superficial moments in-between. For products with a natural focus, using nature in photography is key. In fashion photography, nature provides an easy backdrop for depicting a simple, homey feeling. For travel, there’s nothing better than a beautiful landscape image to tell the story of a place as being merely stunning, in and of itself.

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A post shared by Taylor Swift (@taylorswift)

5. Going Vertical

As we continue to see a growing use of vertical imagery on social media, we anticipate this trend trickling into stock photography more. Instead of just creating visuals in horizontal format, take and upload vertical orientation imagery. Often, for customers searching for imagery on stock marketplaces like Shutterstock, having a vertical image will allow them to use the image better on Instagram Stories, TikTok, IGTV, or other vertical platforms.

When capturing visual imagery in 2021, remember to take a vertical version. Image by Ladanivskyy Oleksandr.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, more people are working and consuming content from home and often from their phones. Vertical content is showing no signs of slowing down, and we don’t anticipate it going anywhere in 2021.

Photography requires you to constantly look ahead and anticipate the next big thing. We always suggest that photographers who are creating content for stock look to our Creative Trends and Color Trends for new and innovative ways to create in the upcoming year. A key resource for photographers is the Shot List, an up-to-date monthly resource on the top content being searched for by customers on our marketplace. We can’t wait to see what you create next.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out these articles:

Top image by Street style photo.

The post The Top 5 Photography Trends Anticipated for 2021 appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.

FREE Template Bundle: Chinese New Year Envelopes

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 11:00:00 GMT

To celebrate the lunar New Year, we’ve created this freebie pack of envelope templates for you to print and fold at home. Let’s get started!

At Chinese New Year, it’s a common custom to give a red envelope (in Mandarin: hóngbāo) containing money to younger family members. The vibrant color of the envelope symbolizes good luck for the year ahead, and the designs often feature beautiful and intricate lettering or patterns in red and gold.

That’s why we’ve created this freebie pack of envelope templates for you to print and fold at home. Fill with notes and give to friends and family to wish them good fortune and happiness in the Year of the Ox!

Scroll down to download your envelope template pack and discover quick-start tips for opening, editing, and printing your cards.

Looking for image inspiration for your 2021-themed designs? Don’t miss the Shutterstock New Year curated collection of celebratory images and illustrations.

What’s Included in Your FREE Chinese New Year Envelope Pack

This FREE downloadable template pack contains four envelope compositions with a modern and minimal design that celebrates the Year of the Ox (niú, 牛) in style.

PDF versions of the templates are available in two easily-printable standard sizes—Letter for the US and A4 for the UK, Europe, and Australia. Simply print on double-sided paper from your home or office computer, then cut, fold, and seal!

To be able to edit your envelope templates—such as adjusting color, text, or size—you’ll need to have access to Adobe InDesign. Scroll down for instructions on how to open and edit your envelope templates using InDesign.

FREE Envelope Pack Preview

Below, preview the four unique designs available in the FREE template pack. These envelopes have been custom-designed exclusively for Shutterstock by our friends at Blue Whippet Studio, and contain a range of lettered and patterned designs in a lucky red and gold palette.

All of the designs contain customary messages of good fortune and well wishes, including 福 (Fú / Blessing, fortune), 囍 (Xǐ / Double Happiness), and 寿 or 壽 (Shòu / Longevity).

Two of the designs also feature the Ox (niú, 牛), the zodiacal animal symbolic of 2021’s lunar year and the second in the twelve-year cycle of the Chinese zodiac. People born under the Year of the Ox are said to be diligent, persistent, and hard-working, as well as extremely trustworthy.

How to Download Your FREE New Year Envelope Pack

Simply click the button below to download your freebie pack. Double-click the ZIP file to unpackage its contents. Inside the ZIP file, you’ll find two folders for A4 and Letter-sized templates. Inside each folder, you’ll find an editable InDesign packaged folder, as well as PDF options that can be printed straightaway.

For seamless printing, open the PDF file (which includes the color bleed). Print your document as close to the edge of the page as possible. To remove guides, you’ll need to edit the document in Adobe InDesign. See our simple-to-follow instructions below the download button.

This FREE download also includes a license document that covers the ways you can use these envelope designs. Plus, you’ll find a coupon that gives you a 15% off discount on Shutterstock images and footage.

DOWNLOAD CHINESE NEW YEAR FREEBIE PACK

By downloading this free template pack, you agree not to resell or redistribute these assets.

How to Open and Print Your Envelopes Using Adobe InDesign

Step 1

Open either the A4 or Letter folder inside the ZIP file you have downloaded.

Inside the folder, open the InDesign Folder. For Adobe CC users, open the INDD version of the InDesign file. For users of InDesign CS4, CS5, or CS6, open the provided IDML file.

Inside the InDesign file, each envelope design is split across two pages, the first page with the exterior (outside) of the design and the second with the interior (inside). There are four total envelope designs, each with an exterior and interior page.

An example of the exterior design.

An example of the interior design.

Additional pages contain patterns or lettering for you to use creatively on an existing or new envelope design.

Step 2

With the InDesign file open, go to the Layers panel (Window > Layers).

The top layer, GUIDES, shows you where you can cut and fold the envelope once you print it.

Under Layers, select GUIDES to see where the envelop will be cut and folded.

You can use the GUIDES as a visual aid on-screen, or print the GUIDES layer separately from your final envelope design (to do this, switch off the visibility of the other layers before going to File > Print). For a seamless result, it’s best to switch this GUIDES layer off before exporting or printing your envelope artwork.

Step 3

The bottom layer, BLEED, contains seamless background color across the whole page, allowing you to cut your envelopes without any visible white edges. Make sure the BLEED layer is switched on before printing.

Switch on the BLEED layer before printing.

Step 4

Open the Swatches panel (Window > Color > Swatches) to view the available swatches for the envelope designs. You can change the color of the envelope from the ENVELOPE layer. You can adjust the color and/or arrangement of lettering, pattern, or graphics from the PATTERN layer.

Step 5

Once you’ve finished working on your envelope design, you can either export the design as a printable PDF or print directly from InDesign (File > Print).

To export as a PDF, first make sure you switch off the GUIDES layer and switch on the BLEED layer.

Next, go to File > Export. Choose Adobe PDF (Print) from the Format menu. Name the file (e.g. “New Year Envelope for Print”), then click Export.

Choose Adobe PDF (Print), name your file, then click Export.

In the Export PDF window that opens, choose Press Quality from the top Preset menu.

Under the Pages options, check Range and type in the pages you wish to print. This is likely to be the two pages that make up one envelope template—exterior and interior.

Check Range under the Pages option.

Select Marks and Bleeds from the panel’s left-hand menu. Check both All Printer’s Marks and Use Document Bleed Settings.

Select Marks and Bleeds, then check both All Printer’s Marks and Use Document Bleed Settings.

Then, click Export.

Step 6

Once your PDF is exported, you can print it to your home or office printer. Set the printer to Print on both sides of the paper, flipping the page on the short edge, and print the design as close to the edge of the page as possible.

Using the GUIDES layer as a visual aid, use scissors or a craft knife to cut out the silhouette of the envelope and score the dashed fold lines. Seal the folded edges with glue.

Awesome job! You’re ready to place notes inside your envelope and gift it to your nearest and dearest.

Voilà! Your finished product!

A new year is a fantastic opportunity to source fresh inspiration and hit your creative reset button. Discover more design tips and inspiring resources for 2021 below:

The post FREE Template Bundle: Chinese New Year Envelopes appeared first on The Shutterstock Blog.