THE IMPORTANCE OF BRIEFING YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER & HOW TO DO IT

The briefing process is crucial to getting the results you want, and its importance should not be under-estimated.

After all, it's of no use telling your photographer after they've done the job that what you wanted was a photo like example A, when they thought you wanted a picture that looked like example B. Or asking them if they photographed Mr X, who just happened to be the president of a major organisation, if you haven't told them that Mr X is a key guest at your event.

When you book your photographer, the brief you supply will serve as a guide for the style of photography and the coverage you require. Therefore, the more details you can provide in your brief, the better.

If you are a new client, a Client Briefing Sheet will be e-mailed to you for completion. Where possible, a pre-meeting is also recommended so that we can discuss your requirements in more detail.

The most important things your photographer will need to know are:-

WHO?/WHAT?

The names (and job titles, if relevant) of the people to be photographed, or details of the event you wish me to cover.

If you need photographs of an event, a copy of the press release, if there is one, is always useful. Please also let me know if you would like any key shots of presentations, speeches, particular people etc.

Your photographer is not a mind-reader, so if that man in a grey suit is an important industry spokesperson, let them know in advance! Just because you recognise them, don't assume that someone unconnected with your industry will.

WHY?

The purpose of the photographs, e.g. are they for press use, your company website, brochures, newsletters etc?

WHERE?

Venue address and contact telephone number. For event photography, will a special pass have to be issued for the photographer?

Obtaining a pleasing portrait depends very much on choosing a suitable location. For indoor portraits, the larger the room the better, and windows are also preferable. If the room has any features such as paintings, these can sometimes be used to good effect, providing an interesting background to a portrait.

WHEN?

For portrait sessions extra time should be allowed for the setting up of lights and the moving of any furniture, if necessary. I usually allow an hour for this, as it is the most important part of any session and is vital for obtaining good results.

Please make sure that you get advice from your photographer about how long the photography is likely to take, rather than making an estimate yourself.

HOW?

Should the photographs reflect your particular company style? If they are intended to accompany a news story for the press, a different style of photography may perhaps be more appropriate.

Portraits can be shot in many different ways, both formal and informal. Have a look at the different styles in the galleries to help you decide on what is best for you. If you would like something different, please get in touch - I'll be happy to discuss your requirements with you in more detail.

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