PR Checklist: Taking Photos

Next time you’re on the hook for photos of a company event, run through this checklist.

1) How will you use the photos? Knowing the likely end uses helps you make sure you get something that will work.
2) Use a familiar camera. The only good camera is one you know how to use.
3) Have fresh batteries ready, or charge the camera and fire up the camera to check the battery indicator while you still have to time to recharge, if needed.
4) Assume something will go wrong. Take extra pictures. Use two cameras.
5) Confirm the location, time and the people involved.
6) Check that you have permission for the location and the people.
7) Arrive early, scout the setting, ask questions, confirm assumptions.
8) If a photo during an event doesn’t turn out, ask people to pose for a photo right after the event.
9) Get closer than you think you have to. For people shots, no one cares what their feet and legs look like. Get even closer.
10) Aim for eye contact for a portrait. For a candid shot, capture people involved in something engaging.
11) Try a different angle, different lighting, different poses. Don’t settle for something boring.
12) When you’re done, get everyone’s name, company/department, and other details.
13) Label the photos so someone else will know the Five Ws if you’re not around.

Gone are the days when a company will hire a professional photographer for every situation. But when going through item one on this checklist, you may discover the end use for the photos will require someone who has the time, energy, experience, equipment and skills to take professional photos.

But the steps in hiring a photographer will have to wait for another day.

Photo by Morbuto.