Steps That a Photographer Can Take to Be Prepared For a Photoshoot

A photographer needs to demonstrate competence. Demonstrating competence will result in repeat business and higher orders. One way to show competence is to be well prepared at every photo shoot taken. This article describes steps a photographer can take to be well prepared.

1. Know the location in which you will be shooting. There are different levels of effort required for accomplishing this task. If a photographer has shot in a location many times in the past, performing this test can be quick. Just arrive a few minuets early so you can see where the best lighting is given the time of day and weather. If you have never been to the location before and you know the location is not one that is usually used for photography, go to the location at least a day before the shoot and plan where and how you will setup your portraits. You want to identify where there is sufficient shade to provide good lighting and where the best back drops can be found.

2. Chat with the client about their expectations the shoot. If it is a wedding you are shooting you will want to know a number of details including who should not be shot with whom. families are complicated and there are usually a few in the extended families that do not want to be with each other. In addition, the bride usually has friends and family that she wants to make sure is photographed with her.

3. Make sure you equipment is ready. Make sure you have at least one spare camera available. Make sure you your flash cards are empty and ready to take another shoot. Make sure your camera has sufficient batteries.

4. If you are bringing an assistant, prep him/her on the game plan for the shoot a day or so before the shoot.

5. Send out a form offering some suggestions as to how the subjects should dress and what they should expect during the shoot.

6. Bring duplicate equipment. Bring at least two cameras. You should also have back up lenses. While doing this is always important, it is particularly important for weddings. Often modeling pictures can be shot again; however a once a wedding is over, it's over. It's essential you are ready for any mechanical malfunctions which may arise.

Being prepared for all of your photo shoots will make things run more smoothly and inspire confidence in your clients of your abilities.