The task of carrying out a succesful photo session at a public location can present a variety of technical and logistical challenges to the photographer. Here are a few random tips (from among many) that will help ease your mind on the shoot so you can focus on doing the job you like the most.....photography.
Tip 1: Start early (...or late!)
It is no big secret that the early bird catches the worm. But, what constitutes a worm for the photographer? Beginning your photo session early has several advantages:
- Fewer spectators and background interference. A gorgeous bride in her bridalwear alongside a handsome groom are going to naturally draw the attention of an audience if your photoshoot is in a public area. This audience may or may not serve as a distraction or disturbance to your subjects. But, if it does, getting there early will help you control this factor and get as many pictures done before the masses gather. Too, an empty public location will mean fewer to no unwanted elements, like passersby, in your image background.
- Parking advantage. If you are shooting in the city, the closer you can park your automobile to your location, the easier you are able to transport equipment, set up and get going.
- Better ambient light. Midday is technically a less preferable time to photograph outdoors in sunny areas due to the sharp contrast in light and shadow from the high sun. Take advantage of the fresh mood and softer light of the morning.
Alternatively, starting late can also have advantage of warmer (as in more orange toned), softer light. At this time too, the crowds may be thinner and the parking better. Of course, one of the chief concerns when shooting at the end of the day is using the remaining daylight well.
Tip 2: Inquire in advance about your location.
Will there be any public events such as parades or demonstrations that are already scheduled and will occupy the area in which you desire to shoot? When planning a photoshoot in Munich recently, we were faced with altered location availability due to events related to Oktoberfest.
And then there is the question of aquiring permits to shoot in the location. Museums for example often do not allow photography on the premises unless you have first arranged the event with the management staff and paid the corresponding fees. There are even shopping malls in the United States that do not allow photography.
Tip 3 : Assistance is indispensable
In your studio, it may be that you can arrange your set so that you can get along alone as the photographer if necessary. However when on location, having an assistant or even several is essential. Some of the tasks of your assistant will include carrying and positioning grip and equipment as well as tending to the persons being photographed. If you are photographing a bride for example, the assistant's job may include helping her keep her voluminous dress off of dirty surfaces or from dragging.
Should you additionally choose to work with a make up artist, this person is going to pay attention to minor hair and make-up details. Such support lightens the photographer's load.
Tip 4: Arrange for refreshments and creature comforts
On an extended photoshoot, you will want to make sure that the persons that you are photographing remain comfortable and able to appear before the camera as you need them to. Having sufficient creature comforts will contribute to the well-being of your subjects. Some of these things may include:
-Warm or cold drinks, depending on the weather
- Prepared or catered snacks
- Sunshades for sunny weather and umbrellas for rain
- Jackets for cooler temperatures
Even if your photoshoot is not elaborate, doing this on a small scale adds to your success.
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