The photoshoot: A story

A picture is worth a thousand words. How, then, is one to pull off such a picture?

The client has requested our team to do a photo shoot at their offices. They are a social enterprise that empowers local communities by training and contracting community members to produce their products. They use the profits from the product to fund community projects, including the construction of a health centre. Our team will conduct interviews during the shoot, and I will be responsible for developing content for the client’s website and marketing materials.

As the shoot approaches, I ensure that I am well-prepared by eating light and familiar food to avoid any discomfort on the day. In addition, I oversee interviews and must confirm that I am well-rested and alert. Despite waking up three times before my alarm, I decided to get an early start to the day.

When deciding what to wear, I consider the importance of clothing in establishing a professional appearance. The proper attire in the appropriate context can significantly impact, whether it be closing a business deal or putting interviewees at ease. Similarly, a well-executed photograph in the right context can pique the interest of potential customers, leading to increased sales. The latter is precisely why we are conducting the photo shoot for the client.

My schedule for the day includes a visit to the office, working alongside our skilled photographer, and being driven by our company’s driver to our client’s location. As I go to the office, my mind filled with photography techniques such as compositing, the rule of thirds, perspective, and lighting. In the publishing industry, it is crucial to know about photography, regardless of your role as a writer or editor. In addition, acquiring this skill set can lead to various perks, including being the go-to photographer for family events and serving delicious food ahead of the queue.

I have realised that photography is not just a profession but a stepping stone to other careers, such as politics, as seen in our photographer, Joe. His charming personality helps to put the interviewee at ease, leading to the perfect shot for the magazine’s editorial piece. Teamwork is vital to a successful photo shoot, as the editor, designer, and photographer must agree on what they want to achieve and plan accordingly.

Before leaving our client’s location, I check off everything on our list, including taking pictures of buildings, individuals, management, products, and more. The cardinal rule of photography is to overshoot, ensuring we have abundant options for the designer.