Project 365: A Closer Look (Behind the Scenes)

Nature's Natural Reflection By: Saúl B.H.P.

I've been meaning to write a post about more details about how I am executing this flickr project. I get lots of people complimenting me on my photos and often get asked what kind of camera tools, editing features and filters I use to produce most of these images.  It's really amazing sometimes when I take a look back most of these photos, I too am pulled away at the colors that pop out, or angle certain photos are in. So, I wanted to make this post more about the tools I used for this project then the actual project as whole.

Camera:
For this project I am using my Apple iPhone 4, it's 5 Megapixel camera serves a great purpose for this project and even records in HD video.  By now it's no surprise that the iPhone 4 has taken the top spot as the most used device on flickr®.  It serves as a great device to use as a stepping stone into photography and one is also even able to create some really good masterpieces with the addition of Apps from the iTunes App Store.

Apps:
The best and most enjoyable part of creating the photos is using photo applications that can bring out the "flavor" of your photo, in fact some may even help make the image you shot better then before.  The following are the Apps I use to create the awesome images that you see in my photo spread today.  Some Apps I use more then others.  However, nothing beats a traditional camera shot with no editing or need for touch-up.  It doesn't hurt having these at your disposal either.




•Camera+ ($0.99) - This App has it all.  I love the filters and the option to make subtle touch ups in regards to cropping or just plain give your photo a full filter change.  An all around really good App.

•Photogene ($1.99) - This App is great for adding banners or making simple background enhancements to your photos.  I use it all the time when I wanna make funny signs or when I need run some attempts on what I want my image to look like before I finalize it for uploading.

•Luminance ($0.99) - This is the perfect photo app that lets you adjust the color exposure on your photos and gives you a very intimate and detail control over it.  Otherwise, you can't go wrong with it pre-selected filter options.

•FX Photo Studio ($1.99) -  This is for the "Way Out There" ones.  This app has a crazy amount of filters, it makes Instagram jealous! ;-) You can also randomize the filters too, and get a complete mash-up of filter and color options on your photo.

Storage for my Project 365 Gallery: flickr
This was a definite no brainer as a choice for storing my photos.  I was a little caught off-guard by the yearly or bi-yearly subscription service when one has uploaded more then 180+ photos, but it's a great site for photo viewing and sharing.  So many amazing photos can be seen on this site and I wanted to contribute.  The best part about this site is that you can edit exif data if need be.  Or you can use it to share via other social networks.  All in all, this is a beautiful site for anyone who is serious about photography.


The only thing missing is lots and lots of dedication, and an open mind, and also a good eye for things.  It's amazing how something like this can be created out of just a thought.  Well, that's it's for my behind the scenes look at my Project 365.  I didn't give out all my tricks of the amateur trade, but it does give you a good start.

Here's to looking to complete my Project 365 by the year's end, December 31st, 2011.  Keep It Funky, Keep it Fresh, and I'll catch you on the Flip-side! ;-)