Photography is becoming an essential aspect to many of our client partners’ annual events. From posed award photos to head shots, there are many precious moments to be documented onsite that will extend the attendee experience post-meeting.
AH's Digital Media team took two photo trips this past quarter. We embarked on a photo adventure to Baltimore for the American Neurological Association’s Annual Meeting and traveled to Connecticut to try our luck at the Mohegan Sun Casino for the Society of Information Management’ SIMposium. While onsite, we tried new techniques, learned a few things and have three key takeaways to share.
Plan It out
As a helpful rule of thumb, plan out what you want from your photographs. Prior to the event, assess the reason you want the photos and where they are going to live. This is important because it lets the photographer know where to focus his efforts. If the photos are for social media, we want to focus on the people and the excitement. If they're for a brochure or banner, we want to focus on the detailed elements of the conference.
Also, consider future projects you may want to use the photos for. If you're investing in a professional photographer, take full advantage while you have a professional photographer onsite.
Tell the Photographer Your Vision
As I said before, utilize your photographer’s skillset. If your photographer is good, they’ll be able to visualize your ideas. Your organization's annual meeting is ripe with personality; this makes capturing your vision that much easier. If necessary, stage photos! At conference, you have access to hundreds of free models and a professional photographer. Again, take full advantage!
Let the Photographer Know What Your Expectations Are
Not all clients are the same. Not all photographers are the same. Not all conferences are the same. Clearly that goes without being said, but I feel it's necessary to reiterate. Let your expectations be clear for both you and your photographer. If members are sensitive to the idea of being photographed, let your photographer know. If certain sessions are off limits, let your photographer know. If you need photos for a slideshow, let the photographer know (preferably before the meeting). Communication is key!
Meetings and events have many moving parts, and it’s impossible to plan everything to the tee. Eliminate the little stresses by giving your photographer a clear schedule of what you're looking for. Don’t be afraid to communicate with the photographer and check in on them every so often. If these conditions are met, you’ll leave the meeting with stellar photos and documented memories that'll last forever.
