The importance of a little planning for
your photo shoot cannot be overstated. Advance planning saves time
and money, and usually results in better photography. Let's look at
some of the questions that need to be considered:
What is the intended use of the
photograph?
What background or location is
needed?
Are there special props required
for the shoot?
Are people or models needed?
What type of lighting and style
would be best?
Are we matching a previous shoot?
Do we need a photo stylist?
First: Intended Use
Is the photograph to be used for an
ad, a display, the internet, a catalog, a news release, an
instruction manual, a magazine cover, or some combination of these?
Do we need to leave room for text and graphics? Are we cutting the
background out so the object or person can "float" on a page? Is
there a particular format (length to width) that is needed? For
example, do we need a horizontal (landscape), vertical (portrait), or
square image? Answers to these questions will give us a good starting
point for the photo shoot.
Second: Background/Location
In many cases a plain, solid-color
studio background may be in order. If so, is there a specific color
that is needed? Although we keep many options available at the
studio, some colors or textured surfaces may need to be located or
purchased prior to the shoot. If a location is used, it is generally
best to have the photographer take a look at the proposed area before
the shoot. Things like the size of the room, color of the walls and
ceiling, and time of day - think sunlight coming in the windows -
may all have a bearing on what equipment is needed and when to
schedule the shoot.
Third: Props
Few things are more frustrating than
finding out in the middle of setting up that you need something more
to fill up the shot. For instance, when shooting food, we always make
sure there are plenty of plates in the same pattern, napkins,
cutlery, salt and pepper shakers, and other table setting types of
props. Some of those things may be needed in the background, even
though they may be out of focus or just partially shown. If fresh
fruits and veggies are to be part of the shot, we make sure there are
more than one of each; we almost always need more than you might
think. And, whenever fresh props are being used, we look for the best
quality and color possible. When using props in a shot, it's always
better to have more than you think you'll need.
Forth: People/Models
It is always smart to consider using
an agency or professional models. The pros know what to do, how to
pose, and how to create and hold the right expression. They usually
have an extensive wardrobe to choose from to help match the look and
feel that is needed. Of course, this all comes at a price which may
or may not fit your budget. It is also possible to use friends,
family, and co-workers. Here at Photographic Solutions, Inc., we have
experience with both professional and non-professional models, and
believe we can get the needed results with either option. Just
consider this, professionals work faster, require less coaching, and
will not get their feelings hurt when you make a choice of a pose or
expression that isn't their favorite - it's part of the job. No
matter who you are using, remember to get signed model releases!
Fifth: Style
This area covers everything from
lighting direction to quality of light, shadow depth, angle of view,
depth of focus, focal length of the lens used, special effects, light
painting, multiple exposures, Photoshop work, HDR images, and a
myriad of other things. Although many of these considerations might
be below the radar of our customers, just be aware that there are
many options we can help you explore to put that extra touch of class
in your photographs.
Sixth: Matching Images
Quite often it is necessary to take a
photograph that matches something done in the past or perhaps by
another photographer, so that there is continuity in your publication
or on your web site. Again, this is best discussed prior to the shoot
so our photographer can be prepared with the proper equipment and
materials. Not every technique is easily recreated, and some
research or experimentation may be required.
Seventh: Stylists
A stylist can be a wonderful asset
during a large shoot, freeing the photographer to concentrate on the
photography. A hair stylist or make-up person (often one and the
same) can be the difference between a successful photo session and
one that leaves something to be desired. Not only that, but it takes
pressure off the models when they know they are being handled by a
professional who knows how to make them look their best. There are
also stylists who specialize in food, room decor, wardrobe, and
props. Many of these people have multiple areas of expertise and
using them will save money in time and effort. If a high-cost stylist
is not in your budget, don't worry. We have worked with a number of
stylists, and we have picked up many of the "tricks of the trade".
As professional photographers we have a little stylist built in, and
can handle many assignments using the same techniques as well as our
own artistic capabilities.
As commercial photographers, we like to
think that we are pretty good at "pulling the rabbit out of the
hat", so to speak, and making our subjects look good with or
without a lot of outside help. Planning ahead makes it possible for
us to provide that high-quality, eye-catching look which makes a
photo shoot a real success.
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