Essential Apps / Software

There’s a lot that goes into being photographer, and we have a million tools we can use to help us on our journey. These are the most essential applications and software that I recommend .

1. Organization Tools

• Notion:

  Versatile tool that helps photographers organise their work and projects efficiently. You can use it to:

  • Project management: Plan shoots, set deadlines, and track progress.

  • Client organisation: Create databases with contact details, contracts, and deliverables.

  • Digital portfolio: Showcase your work in a clean and professional space.

  • Financial tracking: Record income, expenses, and project budgets.

  • Creative ideas: Take notes for shoots, concepts, or inspiration.

• Milanote:

  Is a visual tool perfect for photographers to plan, organise, and develop creative ideas. It works like a digital board where you can:

  • Plan shoots: Create mood boards with visual references, colours, and styles.

  • Organise projects: Add to-do lists, notes, and timelines for each session.

  • Save inspiration: Upload images, sketches, and links to keep all your ideas in one place.

  • Collaborate easily: Share boards with clients or teams to get real-time feedback.

  • Quick portfolios: Design boards to showcase concepts to clients or summarise completed projects.

• Tasks:

  It is excellent for managing photography projects efficiently. Here are some ideas on how to use them in your work as a photographer:

  1. Planning Photoshoots

  • Create specific lists for each project or client.

  • Include tasks such as:

    • Scouting locations.

    • Contacting clients or models.

    • Preparing equipment (camera, lenses, batteries).

  2. Project Tracking

  • Break each project into stages: pre-production, shoot, editing, and delivery.

  • Set deadlines to stay on track with each phase.

  3. Client Management

  • Use a list for recurring tasks, such as responding to emails, sending contracts, or issuing invoices.

  • Add reminders to follow up on deliveries or approvals.

  4. Team Organisation

  • If working with a team, assign specific tasks to each member (makeup artists, assistants, designers).

  • Use tags or categories to prioritise jobs.

  5. Maintenance Reminders

  • Set regular reminders for camera cleaning, software updates, or purchasing supplies.

  Tips to Make the Most of It:

  • Prioritise: Use labels like "Urgent" or "Important" for key tasks.

  • Automate: Sync with your calendar to keep track of important deadlines.

  • Evaluate: Review completed tasks to assess your productivity.

2. Workflow & Editing

• Adobe Lightroom Classic

• Adobe Photoshop

• Adobe Lightroom Mobile

• PS Express

• Adobe Bridge

• Canva

• Unfold

• CapCut

• VSCO

3. File Transfer

• Wetranfer. Great for transferring large files.

• Googel Drive. Comprehensive cloud storage with affordable rates. I don't recommend it if your files are very large. You may lose quality when downloading.