Capturing the essence of the moment

The approach to corporate event photography is not as simple as that to your backyard barbeque do. It in fact requires a certain amount of skill as well as awareness. Corporate events are all about clients, customers and entertainment aimed at improving business relations. Corporate event photography therefore needs to work towards that end. Which part of the event needs to be highlighted, which people need to be featured prominently and which clients have to photographed in the right environment are some things the photographer will have to deftly manage.

Good corporate photography requires the right technology in terms of equipment. A good mix of digital as well as SLR photography is necessary. The photographer will have to make judgment calls on which camera to use at what point. This would depend on lighting and the activity going on. Being able to work in low light conditions and using the flash option intelligibly is part of the profile.

The approach to event photography has to be professional. To avoid people getting conscious around photographers, it is necessary that they have the presence of mind to dress up so as to blend in with the party. Be it a black tie event or a Hawaiian themed night, the photographer should not stand out like a sore thumb. Good photography involves a significant amount of background work. A recce of the venue will help the photographer be a good judge of lighting. There will be some venues where the photographer will have to juggle between indoors as well as outdoor settings. At such times, being ready equipment wise as well as skill wise is necessary.

Being completely ready for corporate event photography also means that the photographer is aware of the flow of events. He has to know the schedule perfectly so that he is at the right spot at the right time to take photos. Being in sync with the organizer of the event will bring in crucial details on whom to photograph and what to highlight. Being discreet is also necessary. Be able to catch a group of people in an intense conversation or one that is relaxing in their natural moods makes for wonderful candid photos. Photographers should know when to keep the camera down. Meal times are one such.
Good corporate photography is all about being a mix of people and events as they have unfolded. A good photographer will not stick to just faces but would also try and capture the mood of the event. This could be in the tray of drinks being carried around or even a stage being set for the main part of the event. Being able to catch the essence of the moment is vital.