#ThursdaySnapShots

Whether you do it for clients or for family and friends, event photography can be challenging!!! Today on #ThursdaySnapShots we bring you more tips on event photography on Lets Go Big Tunes blog page

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Event photography is a generic term used to describe any on-location shoot where you are hired to capture images of a group of people. Everything from weddings and concerts to corporate events and retreats falls under this label. Sometimes the job will include posed photos, but most of the time, the images are going to be photojournalistic. The very nature of events means that as a photographer, you have to be flexible in your event photography techniques.

Events can be challenging, but if you take the time to master this skill, you can cultivate a steady stream of cash flow into your photography business. Corporate events are in constant supply, and once you get in with a company and do a good job, the chances of getting hired again are excellent. 

But to be successful at shooting event photography pictures, you need to have a few things worked out in advance. The very nature of events means that there are few posed or staged photographs. Your job is more of a documentarian, and you can’t afford to miss the critical shots. Knowing this means that you need to spend a significant amount of time preparing for the shoot. 

Understanding Your Client’s Needs and Expectations

The events that you might be asked to photograph vary considerably. To be prepared for an event, you need to have a feel for what is going on and what you’re being asked to do. 

 When you’re hired for the event, schedule a pre-event meeting with the person in charge of organizing the party or affair. Try to arrange to see the venue, and ask lots of questions about what will be going on. What is the final use of the photos going to be? What style do they want? Is this an event photography formal venue? Piece together an outline schedule for the event and walk through it step-by-step.

 Of course, the goal of this meeting is to put together a detailed shot list. Figure out the number of photos needed, if any VIPs present, what the must-have images are, and if your client has any special requests. At this point, you should have a pretty firm idea of how the event will go and what sort of photos you’ll be taking.

 Just like any other photo session, make sure to understand your client’s needs, and do your absolute best to fulfill them. They’re hiring you to capture images for some purpose, so your job is to understand what they want and provide it.

1.Arrive Early

 Being punctual is the mark of a true professional. But beyond just being on time, go a little further and get there early. Having a few minutes to walk around the venue will help you set up your shots later. You’ll be able to find spots that work for you, and maybe even be able to perfect your flash setup and camera settings. 

 You can also take setup and pre-event shots that may be invaluable to the event organizers. Take shots of the place settings, decorations, and anything else that the team has done to make the event special.

2.Dress for the Event

Most corporate events are work-formal occasions, but there are some fancier black-tie events too. Your goal is to look professional and blend in as best you can. Know ahead of time what the attire requirements are going to be. Often, photographers who shoot events have a special outfit or two that they designate as their event photography formal wear. You want to be able to mingle in the crowd while not standing out like a sore thumb. 

3.Mingle

Likewise, you don’t want to stick to one spot. You’ve got to roam around with your camera and look for special moments. Chat with the participants and ask them politely if you can take their pictures. Just like with portrait clients, make the guests comfortable and feel at ease. Have fun with them. Never spend too much time with one group. Try to spend 30 seconds to a minute taking a group shot, and then move on.

check in next week on Lets Go Big Tunes blog page to get more great photography tips