In an interview sometime in 2010, Steve Jobs proclaimed that we had entered a post-PC era. With the advent of the iPad and its multifaceted utilities, we can assume that he was actually right!
iPad history
The iPad is a tablet. It connects to the internet with Wi-Fi and 3G. It can also connect to other devices such as DSLRs, laptops, iPods, and iPhones via USB or wirelessly. Apple Inc., first released the iPad in 2010. The iPad2, which is 3G-enabled, was released in April 2011.
It comes in internal storage capacities of 16, 32, and 64 GB. It is compatible with any GSM mobile connection provider. By default, iPad comes with apps like the App Store, iBooks, iTunes, Videos, etc. Most apps were developed for the iPhone and then cobbled together to fit the iPad. When connected to a PC or laptop, iTunes recognizes the iPad.
How does the iPad help photographers?
With the iPad close at hand, you can do a lot during a photo shoot. Here are some must-have iPad apps for photographers:
pose pad
For photographers who like to take notes on location after a photo shoot or like to make a “to do list” before shoots, PosePad is a good app. You can draw your own idea for the pose, doodle the lighting effects and show it to the client or model. You can have a clutter-free photo shoot idea with PosePad.
easy release
Once you are done with the photo shoot, the next step would be to get your model release or property release signed by the interested parties. Things are digitized and the days of paper forms are long gone. With Easy Release, your model can fill out the form and sign it, right on their iPad. You can email it to yourself later using Wi-Fi or 3G.
photoshop express
Adobe’s Photoshop Express is an excellent free application for quick editing. You can store albums online and access them using this tool, thus saving space on iPad.
filter storm
While the free Photoshop Express is great for minor edits, Filterstorm gives you the ultimate editing prowess when it comes to the iPad. It comes with features like exposure adjustment, cropping, text tool, watermark tool, and many more. This is an alternative option to bringing your laptop to edit.
LIFE for iPad and The Guardian Eyewitness
Do you need inspiration? Get some of the best photos at your fingertips with the LIFE touch. Huge collections of some of the best photography from the far reaches of the world are meant to do more than just inspire.
Another similar app is The Guardian’s Eyewitness. Both apps are free and available on the App Store.
Smug/Photobucket/Flickr
After you’ve edited your photos, what better way to reveal your creation than to share it online? Apps like Smugmug, Photobucket, and Flickr are great for maintaining an online storage of albums without overloading your iPad’s memory. These are not only great for getting good reviews for your photos, but also the best way to present your work to clients.
photo synchronization
Need to transfer all your photos to/from iPad? All you need is Bluetooth or Wi-Fi and PhotoSync. This app is smart enough to detect duplicates and hides in the background while you are playing your favorite game or taking a phone call.
DSLR camera remote control
This app turns your iPad into a digital remote shutter, making a remote shutter cable completely unnecessary.
You can buy these apps or download some of them for free using iTunes.
The app store is a godsend, because it makes the iPad even more versatile. You can store all your photos on your iPad and carry them around as a portfolio for potential clients. Share it with the world and explore things on the go.