8 Secrets to Great
Event Photography
You’ve
scheduled a live event—conference, training seminar, meeting, wedding or bar
mitzvah—and properly recording this one-time event is critical. Capturing the
right moments in the right light with the right framing is the job of an
accomplished live-event photographer or videographer. But how do you assure you
have the right talent? Your choice could mean the difference between success
and failure.
- Choose
a Talented Still Photographer or Videographer.
Most
gifted, experienced event professionals have websites showcasing their work. Do
you like how the subjects look? Are the angles interesting? Is the work
engaging and compelling? Anyone can hold a $20,000 camera; not everyone exhibits
the talent to shoot with even a $20 camera.
2. Check References.
A
no brainer. Even if you feel pressured for time, check out at least three
references over the phone, and if possible, make an appointment to meet the
references and review the contracted work of the photographer or videographer.
- The
Reel Talent.
Along
with marketing themselves on a website, most professionals also have demo reels
or CDs of their work. They may also have portfolios and albums (in the case of
a wedding). Make sure the work you’re reviewing belongs to the photographer or videographer
you are considering. One of my clients found out—way too late—that the professional
she had hired for her training seminar had shown her a demo reel from one of
his buddies, another videographer. The results were devastating and
embarrassing.
- The
Right Stuff.
Your
professional should be using a high-definition digital video camera or a high-resolution
digital still camera. Unlike a point-and-shoot camera, a single lens reflex
camera (SLR) allows the photographer to look through the lens to see exactly what
the camera sees; precise focus, brightness and color and framing. Want to learn
more about equipment? Contact B&H Photo in New York
- Cover
Your Back.
Make
certain your photographer or videographer brings backup cameras, backup
batteries and backup sound equipment. And if the budget allows, hire a backup
photographer or videographer as well. Two professionals shooting from different
perspectives and angles can add interest, freshness and cover more ground. They
can be literally in two different places at the same time!
- I’m
Ready for My Close-up.
Shooting
a can of corn and other product shots may require hard, strong lighting, but
people fare best in soft, diffused light with no harsh shadows. Your
professional should choose studio lights using umbrellas or soft boxes to
accomplish a flattering light. And they should understand how to soften unflattering
shadows, minimize sharp features, and eliminate deep under-eye circles for a
more youthful look. Right, Norma Desmond?
- Sound
Advice.
Sound
is critical in video and if it’s poor quality, your whole video could suffer. To
successfully record stationary interviews, conference, seminar or question-and-answer
sessions, your professional should know how to set the sound levels, and use perhaps
a wireless lapel mic with a safety net of two channels of audio. One channel is
the wireless mic and one channel is the on-camera shotgun microphone. Consider
sound design to smooth uneven sound and ambient noise you don’t want and your
photography will be soundsational.
- Makeup
Your Mind.
No
ifs ands or buts, a makeup artist is a must on any shoot, even a conference,
meeting, panel discussion, wedding or bar mitzvah. The harsh lights not only
render blotchy, greasy skin but often make the interview subject look tired,
even hung over. Not to mention the sweater who perspires heavily for most of
the shoot. A basic makeup application is essential along with touchups in
between sessions.
Knowing
all you can about still photography and videography will help you make an
educated choice. Contact Anne Schwab or Liliane Blom at Creative Management
Services for detailed information on how to make your next live event a rousing
success.
Remember, you never have a second
chance at a one-time event!
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