What is Event Photography?
Event photography consists of capturing images of special events such as weddings, sporting events, concerts, and pretty much anything out of the ordinary. Some event photographers tend to specialize in handling corporate events, and this can be lucrative, because there are big businesses involved. For example, trade shows, conferences, retirement dinners, holiday parties, and corporate anniversaries are just some of the major events which photographers are needed for by corporations.
What Event Photography Gear Do You Need?
A standard kit for event photography would normally include two cameras, two lenses, and a flash. Then you would need some backup equipment, in case any of your primary gear fails or becomes damaged somehow. Your lens choice will be extremely important, depending on the type of event you are photographing. Then too, you’ll need some lighting equipment to handle various types of lighting situations, and you’ll need some batteries and flash battery packs to make sure you don’t run out of power. Finally, you’ll need some camera bags and camera straps to transport your gear conveniently, as you are going to and from the event itself.
How to prep for shooting an event
There are number of things you’ll need to do to prepare yourself for shooting your next event. First of all, you should meet with the client to determine exactly what they’re looking for, and where you might obtain the best photos. Then you need to gear up for the event, to make sure you have all the right equipment when you actually go to the event. While many of your photos at the event might be candid ones, you should also prepare a list of shots that you need to take to adequately cover the event.
For example, at a wedding you might need to include the bride and groom’s first dance, at a corporate event you might need to get some shots of the CEO’s speech, and at a retirement party, you’ll need to get several shots of the retiree accepting parting gifts. When the day of the event actually arrives, make sure you are at the venue as early as possible, so you don’t miss any of the guests arriving.
You’ll also want to be there early so you can set up your camera and do some scouting around the location itself. You may also need to get some shots prior to the arrival of guests, because a lot of people in attendance will tend to obscure some of the decorations.
Tips for Getting Your Best Shots
- Set up the shot and wait for the expressions – once you have your subject ready, just wait until you see the perfect expression, and snap the photo
- Fill the frame – make sure your subject completely fills the frame, and you don’t waste space on the background
- Be aware of your surroundings and look for that special moment – your subject will be reacting to things going on, so you need to be aware of these, and that will help you anticipate when just the right moment comes along
- Capture a variety of candid photographs – candid photos can be hilarious, poignant, or moving, and they have great value because of their unplanned expression
- Capture a variety of posed photographs – some posed photos actually make the best images, because they’re carefully planned and all the details are just right.