Good photographic material that has been taken authentically at an event changes everything in an advertising campaign. For example. But also when launching a new brand and using the photographs of its market presentation. Or when it comes to sharing information and conclusions about a trade fair or a technology congress… and more.
At Barcelona Photographer we have been covering all kinds of events internationally for years. We work with event agencies in India, USA and other countries. And more specifically, Katherin Wermke, the founder, has covered Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York for years, among others. So about this, which we have been doing for more than 20 years, we can tell you a lot. Today, we will try to be brief, because it would be impossible to share with you everything we think is important to keep in mind about what events a photographer covers and how it should be done. But here’s a summary that will come in handy if you want to be aware of the most important things.
First, let’s look at what kind of events need to immortalise key moments in the form of photographs. Where the objective is to transmit to the audience, in a creative way and with an impeccable technique, the essence of the event. The most common are these.
- Corporate events: all kinds of companies hire our photographers for events such as conferences, product presentations, gala dinners and other important moments. In these cases, the photographer must be able to capture both the formality and the dynamics of the business, as well as the moments of interaction between the attendees.
- Concerts and festivals: to capture the energy and spectacle of these events, the photographer must be familiar with crowd dynamics and work in low light conditions. Performers, crowds and iconic moments of the show are essential.
- Fashion shows: at events such as catwalk shows, the focus is on the design details and key moments of the show. Here, the speed and accuracy of the photographer are crucial.
- Exhibitions and trade fairs: these events are often for both business and entertainment. The photographer must capture the interaction between exhibitors and attendees, as well as the products or services presented.
What does it take to be an event photographer?
Being an event photographer is much more than just knowing how to use a good camera and shoot randomly. This type of photography requires a combination of certain aspects, which we will tell you about in the following lines. Whether you want to be an event photographer or if you are looking for a photographer for events in Barcelona for example, write them down because in both cases you should take them into account.
Technical skills
A thorough mastery of photographic techniques is essential. This includes knowledge of different types of cameras, lenses and settings to suit various lighting conditions and space.
Also master post-production and the use of editing software, such as Adobe Lightroom or Photoshop, to further enhance the quality of the images.
Ability to anticipate key moments
One of the most valuable skills an event photographer can have is the ability to foresee and capture important moments before they happen. This, in part, comes from experience and that’s why training is key. Our photographers have been doing this for over two decades, so imagine how many events of all kinds they have photographed.
At dynamic events, such as fashion shows or concerts, special moments often happen in the blink of an eye. An experienced photographer knows how to read the atmosphere and anticipate when something significant is about to happen.
Effective communication
Being an event photographer also means being an excellent communicator. We explain this point in more detail.
Before the event, it is essential to understand the client’s expectations and make sure they are aligned. And during the event, it is crucial to interact professionally with the attendees, maintaining an unobtrusive presence, but being accessible enough to guide participants through the photos if necessary.
Adaptability
Events do not always follow a rigid plan, and something exciting can happen when you least expect it. Last minute changes, adverse weather conditions or technical problems can arise at any time.
A good event photographer must be able to adapt quickly to any situation, find creative solutions and move on without affecting the quality of the work.
What makes a good event photographer different?
A priori you may think that the quality of the photos is the main difference, but it is not. Of course quality is essential, but what will really make the difference between good, quality photographs and good, quality photographs that make an impact are certain skills and personal attributes. And these are some of the factors by which an event photographer will stand out from others.
Empathy and sensitivity
A good event photographer does not just capture images, but also strives to understand the emotions and energy of the event. Having empathy and a sympathetic attitude allows the photographer to better connect with the participants and capture authentic and spontaneous moments that reflect the true essence of the event.
Creativity
Every event is unique, so creativity is essential to find new angles and innovative ways to tell the story of the event. A good event photographer is constantly looking for new ways to capture stunning images, even in common or repeated scenarios.
Attention to detail
Small details, such as the expression on the guests’ faces, the décor or subtle gestures, can often tell more about the event than a great overall shot. Paying attention to these details helps to create a complete visual narrative.
Punctuality and reliability
Being late can mean missing out on unrepeatable moments to photograph. A good event photographer is not only on time, but also reliable, meaning they meet deadlines and provide a high quality service from the first contact to the final delivery of the photos.
Ability to work under pressure
Events can sometimes be chaotic due to the volume of people and the number of special moments that can be generated, and often take place in a high-pressure environment. Therefore, the photographer must be able to handle the stress, keep up with the fast pace of the event and adapt to its different phases, and ensure that everything is captured flawlessly, regardless of the circumstances.
Flexibility
Adapting to the client’s needs is a ‘must’ for an event photography company. In our case, our photographers travel to any place in the world that our client needs. Wherever your event is, we travel, and this flexibility to travel goes hand in hand with a demanding organisation and a very good level of languages. In our case, at Barcelona Photographer, we have a perfect command of Spanish, Catalan, English, German, Italian and French, and thanks to this we can work with companies from various countries and communicate fluently.
Contacts with agencies worldwide
For events that cross borders it is necessary to have contact with agencies in other countries. Together with the previous point this is very important, both things go hand in hand. Having the flexibility to travel and mastering different languages allows us to be an audiovisual production company based in Barcelona but with the advantage of having close and continuous contact with international agencies. In this way we can organise the photography of international events with the highest levels of technique, quality, creativity and impact.
What does an event photographer need?
In addition to all his skills, experience, creativity, etc., the photographer needs good photographic equipment with which he can develop his work in a comfortable way.
- Professional camera and quality photographic equipment
- External flash and lighting accessories such as diffusers or softboxes
- Tripod and stabiliser
- Additional batteries and memory cards
- Photo editing software
Photographic equipment should become an extension of the photographer’s body, so that he knows and masters it, recognising it as his own. As Henri Cartier Bresson said, ‘To photograph is to place the head, the eye and the heart on the same axis’.
At Barcelona Photographer we specialise in event photography in Barcelona. And all over the world.
We have the best photographic equipment. But what really makes us stand out is the great human and creative quality and technical mastery of our photographers, who know how to photograph the best of each event. Through our work we make sure that whoever looks at the photographs can be transported to the event and discover themselves enjoying and dreaming among images of the best technical and creative quality.
Do you need a photographer for events? Contact our team now and ask for a personalised quote
