Tips for Event Photographers

Tips straight from event organizers.

Event photography can be challenging, but it's also a very rewarding experience. As an event photographer, you have the opportunity to capture unique moments that will last a lifetime. Whether you're covering a corporate event, wedding, or a concert, there are a few things you can do to ensure your photos are the best possible.

Tips for Event Photographers

Communication Is Key

Before the event, it's important to communicate with the event organizer to understand their expectations. Find out the key moments they want to capture, the schedule of the event, and any other important details. This will help you plan your shots and ensure you don't miss any important moments.

Think about every event from the organizer's perspective. What shots are they going to want the most? Is it a priority to take personal shots of the individuals attending, so that those people can use and share them? Is it a bigger priority to take the most amount of "wide shots" that capture the entire event?

Imagine you're shooting at someone's tech conference they planned and they are looking for lots of shots to use in next year's marketing materials. Or imagine it's a cosplay photography event and people want shots of themselves.

Bring the right equipment

Depending on the type of event and location, you may need different equipment to capture the best shots. It's important to bring the right lenses, camera bodies, flashes, and any other equipment you may need. You should also have backup equipment, just in case.

When it comes to choosing the right camera equipment for event photography, there are a lot of options available in the market. Two of the most popular brands among event photographers are Nikon and Sony. Both brands have their own advantages and disadvantages, and the choice ultimately depends on your personal preferences and shooting style.

Nikon offers a wide range of DSLR cameras and lenses, which are well-known for their excellent image quality, durability, and reliability. Many professional event photographers prefer Nikon cameras due to their fast autofocus system and low-light performance. Nikon's D850 and D5 are popular choices for event photography, as they offer high-resolution sensors and fast burst rates.

On the other hand, Sony's mirrorless cameras are gaining popularity in the event photography world due to their compact size, excellent image quality, and advanced video features. The Sony A7 III and A9 are popular choices among event photographers due to their fast autofocus and fast continuous shooting speeds.

However, it's worth noting that both Nikon and Sony cameras can be quite expensive, making them out of reach for some photographers. In that case, smartphones like the iPhone can be a good alternative. The newest iPhone models come with advanced camera technology and can produce excellent images. While smartphones have limitations compared to professional cameras, they're still capable of capturing great photos in a pinch.

Ultimately, the choice of camera brand and equipment comes down to personal preference, budget, and shooting style. Whatever equipment you choose, be sure to bring backup equipment in case of any malfunctions, and always remember to communicate with the event organizer to ensure you're prepared for the event's unique challenges.

Be prepared for low light situations

Many events take place in low light situations, such as concerts or indoor weddings. Make sure you have a camera that can handle low light situations, and bring a flash or a tripod if necessary.

Observe the event

Take time to observe the event and the people around you. Look for unique moments and angles that will make your photos stand out. Stay aware of your surroundings, and don't be afraid to move around to get the best shots.

Be prepared to move quickly

Events move quickly, so you need to be prepared to move quickly as well. Don't hesitate to move to a new spot or change your angle to capture the best shot. Be ready for unexpected moments, and always keep your camera close by.

Shoot in RAW

Shooting in RAW gives you more flexibility when editing your photos. RAW files capture more detail and information than JPEG files, giving you more options when it comes to editing. Just make sure you have enough memory cards to store your RAW files.

Take candid shots

While posed shots are important, candid shots can capture the essence of the event. Look for people interacting with each other or special moments that happen naturally.

Stay Organized

After the event, it's important to stay organized. Make sure you have a system for organizing your photos, whether it's by date, event, or file name. This will make it easier to find the photos you need when it comes time to edit.

Conclusion

Event photography can be challenging, but it's also a lot of fun. By following these tips, you can ensure that your photos are the best they can be. Remember to communicate with the event organizer, bring the right equipment, be prepared for low light situations, observe the event, be prepared to move quickly, shoot in RAW, take candid shots, and stay organized. With these tips, you'll be able to capture amazing photos that will last a lifetime.

Find more guides for event planners.