How To Pull Off Event Photography: 6 Tips That Change The Game

Well we did it folks... after months of preparation, several meetings, excessive amounts of caffeine, and a whole lot of planning we pulled off the 80's themed adult prom. Well the photography side of it anyways. Since pulling off a relatively big event we've got some tips and tricks to share with any photographers daring to do event photography.

behind the scenes, in the photo booth

Tip #1: Get Organized, Be Over-Prepared (Duh)

This one sounds pretty obvious but that's why it's number one. Before you dive into all of this get prepared. Do some research and mentally walk yourself through every step of the event before you even set up the first meeting. In essence think big picture and then organize all the little details that will make it possible. Start with a rough outline of the night, and then write down: the who's (team members/event coordinators, etc.), the where, and the when. From there set up a couple meetings and make lists of all the things you will need to bring. 

We recommend... Extra batteries, snacks, drinks, charged iPads, backup chargers/cameras/cords/SD cards. So literally bring backup everything, as well as some human comforts like food, drink, and comfy clothes. 

Our #1 app suggestion is Trello

Trello is awesome because it syncs data in real time. You can fill it with interactive checklists, drag and drop items, and make notes. It's a free app that all your team members can access, so when one team member has put in customer info in one board, the other taking the photo can drag and drop that info over into the photo board. This keeps all customer information and photos in order, so at the end of the event you will know who to send the photos to. 

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Tip #2: Be Willing To Change The Plan 

Not everyone will be willing to take directions or bring your vision to life. If they aren't nailing a pose, move on (without shaking their confidence). You don't want to hang on to an idea if someone isn't capable of creating it. More so than that, when you are shooting portraits of hundreds of people, the time frame for each person gets a lot shorter. Go with the flow and create something you will be proud of and the client is happy they paid for. 

Tip #3: Adapt To Each Individual 

When I was shooting portraits at the event, some people had their own poses they wanted. Not only that, but they were good at them, and even though I had two set poses for couples I let them do their thing. The photos were good, they were happy, and the time frame was shorter because of it. 

Tip #4: Know Your Team

The fearless leader of Angelstorms Photography, Theresa, understands the strengths and weaknesses of each team member who played a roll in the event. She knew I would be nervous, due to my lack of experience in the field, so she assigned me to the portrait booth. I got a routine going, relaxed, and had a good time. I'm a friendly gal who is detailed oriented, which is the perfect combination for taking portraits. Codi got assigned the cashier/organizer roll because she is cool under pressure, organized, and confident. She is quick on her feet and was able to answer any questions people may have had. Cheyenne is a quick, cool under pressure, and really good with a camera, so she was assigned the paparazzi line. Theresa took on the hardest job of all, as good leaders do... She was backup to anyone who needed it and wandered and took all the photos outside the realm of the other photo assignments. 

The point is know your people, assess their strengths and weaknesses and don't push anyone too far outside their comfort zone when the pressure is already high. 

Tip #5: "Act Like You Like Each Other"

The words every photographer dreads.... But seriously, every time you say them people laugh, blow out a breath, and relax their shoulders. It's the simple things, people.

Tip #6: Have Fun

Super cheesy tip but that's the point... Have some fun with it, you most likely chose this career for the joy of it and not the lavish lifestyle. So take a breath, plan as much as you can, adapt when necessary, and have fun, you like your job, remember? 

The Angelstorms team wishes you luck with your event photography pursuits!

The Angelstorms Photography Team