As a photographer, your job is to capture memorable moments. When I first started photography my passion grew quickly when I understood the impact images have. This impact is what continues my passion for capturing people’s personal and professional milestones. Photographing an event requires both technical skill and the ability to connect with people. It is important to have a clear understanding of what is expected from you. There are specific steps that should be taken in order to ensure quality and high level execution when taking photos. Those steps include, preparation ahead of time, understanding roles and expectations, having an eye for detail, and making subjects feel comfortable.

Movie theatre marquis sign that reads "Awesome Inc Presents 5 Across Finals Pitch Competition 5PM!"

STEP ONE: Preparedness and Knowledge is Key!

Prior to the event, it’s important to do your research, learn the sequence of events and familiarize yourself with the event location. Any photographer will want to ensure there are no surprises. You should have a clear understanding of what is to take place during the timeframe you are delegated. An additional advantage is touring the event space beforehand. This will allow you to get a sense of lighting and potential backdrops to ensure your confidence in your surroundings.

*Awesome Inc creates a play by play for every 5 Across event. This covers bases for all team members throughout the entirety of the event. I personally love having this resource to reference during the event itself. It guarantees everyone is on the same page. *

STEP TWO: Arrive Early, NOT on Time!

On the day of the event, it is important to arrive at the venue early to re-familiarize yourself with the lighting conditions, and to get a sense of the overall atmosphere. Take a couple minutes to confirm your shot list and expectations with the organizers to ensure everyone is on the same page. This will also allow you time to give input on setup, set up any lighting if needed and find your ‘home base’.

The Awesome Inc team typically shows up three hours early to set up and prep for the event. Whether I am on the direct team or subcontracted, I always try to give myself extra ‘cushion time’ to be a helping hand if the event coordinators have any questions that could potentially impact my photos.

STEP THREE: Let your Camera be your Eyes!

Pay attention to the details, such as the decor, the food, and the guests’ attire. Capture a variety of subject matter, including portraits, group shots, and candid moments. It’s important to keep your eyes open for reactions and emotions, as these can be some of the most compelling and memorable images. By being observant and anticipating the action, you’ll be able to capture the event in a way that truly reflects the spirit of the occasion.

*Details can be one of the most overlooked aspects. I personally love the way details speak to the atmosphere and overall feeling of an event which is why I make it a priority to capture all details. When I photograph an event like 5 Across I am specifically looking for the way registration is set up, how features are displayed, and the all interaction with attendees. This propels me to keep my head on a swivel and maintain a watchful eye to ensure I capture raw and authentic moments. *

In conclusion, photographing an event can be both exciting and challenging. As a photographer, you need to be well-prepared, have a keen eye for detail, and be able to anticipate the key moments. You should aim to capture a variety of subject matter and emotions, while being respectful of the guests and the occasion. With these tips, you can present memorable and impactful images that will be appreciated by your clients for years to come.