What a PR team needs from an event photographer
Based on my experience, I can highlight several points that are important to a PR team when working together at events.
First of all, trust. The last thing a PR team wants to do is monitor the photographer’s actions or check whether they are violating agreements made prior to the event. This applies particularly to events featuring celebrities or political figures: the photographer must clearly understand who can and cannot be photographed, and which photos may or may not be shown after the event. Additionally, when working in theatres, there are strict rules regarding when a photographer should start and stop shooting, so it is very important for me to understand and adhere to the rules of the specific venue.
The second important factor is timing. Of course, the best time to deliver photos is the exact day of the event. However, in most cases, especially if the shoot lasts longer than three hours, this is very difficult to achieve. Therefore, it is crucial to specify in the contract the exact deadlines for the delivery of the finished photographs that the photographer is required to meet.My standard turnaround time is to deliver the photos within three days after the event; however, I always make an effort to send a small selection of images on the same day or the next day, so the PR team or my client can quickly post an update about the event on socials or their website, or even share it with the media.
The third point, which I would actually call the first, is the quality of photographs. They should show the event in all its color, highlights, and emotions. Therefore, it is important for the photographer to understand what tools they will use to convey the mood of the event. The quality of the photos depends largely on how fresh and rested the photographer's eyes are; that is precisely why I prefer to deliver the finished work after three days. This way, my eyes don't get too tired, and I have time to switch to other projects for reference — or simply give my eyes a rest — so that when I return, I can immediately spot where the lighting needs tweaking or the color needs adjustment.
And last, but not least: be cool and stylish. People find it easier to pose for a photographer who looks good, has a charming smile, and acts confidently. I always approach my work as if I were stepping onto a stage: I want to be the star of the event, even while remaining behind the camera. And why not?
