Whether it’s a team-building event, networking event, or conference, planning a corporate event can be a big undertaking – even if it’s something you do regularly as a business. In finding a venue, confirming delegate numbers, and considering catering options, it can be easy to overlook one key detail: event photography. After all, you’ve put all the effort into making this an event to remember – it would be a shame not to have some beautiful imagery to showcase, for use in your future marketing activities!
If you want to hire an event photographer, where do you start? You may be tempted to search for a local photographer on Google, or you may know someone pretty handy with a camera, such as a friend of a friend. However, before you go for the easy route, I’ve rounded up the 5 things you need to know to ensure you’re hiring the right person for the job because event photography is a very particular skill! I know this myself, as someone who photographs weddings, families, personal branding, and corporate events. While there are universal truths about how to capture moments with photography, there are some key differences in how I approach the photoshoots I plan.
- What will you invest?
The first decision you need to make is the size of your budget. At the end of the day, a photographer can attend your event for as long as it takes place, but there may be a particular window that is most important. Decide on a range and consider how that investment will benefit you in terms of attracting attendees to future events in your marketing.
- Create a brief
While the right corporate event photographer should ask you the right questions upfront, it’s important for you to decide what story you want your final imagery to tell. For example, is it about the team creating the event and showcasing what goes on behind the scenes? Is it about the delegate experience? It could be both, by the way, but your photographer will need to know upfront. You could even create a mood board of event photography that you think matches your brand. When you’re creating your brief, also consider how quickly you’ll need images back, and how many you’ll need.
- Create your long list
Go online and check out photographers in the local area of your event – they will likely represent better value for money if they don’t have as far to travel. Don’t forget to ask your network and business connections if there is anyone they might recommend. Review your brief and select a few photographers that seem like a good match. Check out their photography portfolio and consider how engaging their photography is, as well as researching their working style and pricing.
- Create your shortlist
Your next step is to refine your list to those who seem like they will meet your brief within your budget, contact them and select the one you feel the most trust with instantly. Don’t forget to ask them if they have insurance, what their overtime policy is, and whether they are already familiar with the venue.
- Let them do their job!
Once you have selected the corporate event photographer that you’re happy with, trust you’ve made a good decision and leave them to do their job! Don’t be afraid to ask questions about how they will operate and what they need in order to fulfill your brief – a good photographer will be happy to answer your questions and put you at ease. Your job now is to focus on your event logistics and leave the photographer to deliver.
Looking for a corporate event photographer for your event?
Look no further! As well as photographing weddings, personal branding, and families, I also photograph corporate events. From networking events to team away days, I can help you confidently tell the story of your event with high-quality professional images that capture the experience. Get in touch to find out more about my event packages.
