Behind the Scenes: Documenting Event Planning
Introduction
As photographers, we are often called upon to document events, whether it's a wedding, a corporate function, or a charity fundraiser. And while these events can be exciting to shoot, they can also be incredibly challenging. From the lighting to the crowd control, event photography requires a unique set of skills. In this article, we'll take a look at what goes on behind the scenes when documenting event planning and offer some tips to make your next event shoot a success.
Pre-Event Planning
Client Consultation
Before the event even begins, it's essential to have a consultation with the client. This is where you can discuss their vision for the event and get an idea of what they want you to focus on. Are they looking for candid shots of the guests or more posed portraits? Will there be any special activities or moments that they want you to capture? This is also a great time to discuss logistics, such as where you'll be shooting from and how you'll handle any lighting challenges.
Scouting the Location
Once you've had your client consultation, it's a good idea to visit the event location and scout out the area. Look for potential shooting locations and make a note of any areas that may be challenging to shoot in. This is also a great time to meet with the event planner and get a sense of the flow of the event. Knowing where people will be, and when, can be immensely helpful when planning your shooting strategy.
Equipment Preparation
Preparing your equipment is essential for any shoot, but it's especially crucial for event photography. Make sure you have all the gear you need, including backup batteries and memory cards. You'll also want to pack a variety of lenses to give you flexibility in your shooting. Finally, don't forget to clean your equipment and test it out before the event.
During the Event
Arrive Early
One of the most important things you can do to ensure a successful event shoot is to arrive early. This gives you plenty of time to set up your equipment and get acclimated to the environment. You can also use this time to take some test shots and make sure everything is working correctly.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings
When shooting an event, it's essential to be aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye out for potential hazards, such as cables or trip hazards. You'll also want to be mindful of any other photographers who may be shooting the event. Finally, be respectful of the guests and try not to disrupt their experience.
Shoot in Raw
One of the best things you can do to ensure high-quality images is to shoot in the raw format. Raw images contain much more information than jpeg files, allowing you to have more control over the final image in post-production.
Get a Variety of Shots
When shooting an event, it's important to get a variety of shots. This includes candid shots of guests, portraits of key players, and shots of the environment. Don't be afraid to experiment with angles and lighting to get a unique shot.
Post-Event Editing
Back Up Your Images
The first step in post-event editing is to back up your images. This ensures that you won't lose any of your hard work. We recommend backing up your images in at least two locations, such as an external hard drive and a cloud-based service.
Selecting and Editing Images
Once your images are backed up, it's time to start selecting and editing your shots. This is where you can start to bring your vision to life. We recommend selecting a few of your favorite shots and editing them first. This will give you a sense of what style and look you want your images to have.
Delivering Images to the Client
Once you've edited your images, it's time to deliver them to the client. This can be done in a variety of ways, such as through a digital download or on a USB drive. Make sure to communicate with your client on their preferred delivery method and timeline.
Conclusion
Documenting event planning can be a challenging but rewarding experience. By properly preparing, being aware of your surroundings, and experimenting with different shots, you can ensure a successful event shoot. And with a little post-event editing, you can bring your vision to life and deliver a memorable set of images to your client.