Executing a successful on-location workplace commercial photography shoot requires careful preparation and attention to detail.
overview
To help you get started, i’ve compiled this list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) with expert advice on how prepare for your upcoming shoot. If you require help with the specifics of planning your creative goals and brief I also offer this service over here.
what are your goals?
The first step is to define your objectives and goals for the shoot. Please make a shot list of the images you require if we currently don’t have a brief to work towards. Please be aware of our time allocated together and be realistic on the number of scenes we can capture.
making a shot list
Start by creating a shot list that outlines the specific images you need to achieve your goals. Organize the list by location, time, and setup. Having a clear plan will keep the shoot on track and ensure you don’t miss any important shots. Of course I will try my best to fit it all in, but please prioritise the images required from essential to ‘would be nice’. You can also setup a ‘Pinterest image board’ and share this, to include images you have seen online or from my portfolio here.
ensure proper lighting
Natural light is often ideal for on location/ workplace photography. Scheduling the shoot during the optimal time of day that is usually earlier or late into the afternoon can really make or break the image quality. Saying that, don’t worry to much if we are inside and the time of day is not when the light is flatter and harsher (midday for example) as I utilise artificial lighting and diffusers to create the ideal lighting. Shooting outdoors though is different and be cautious of the midday light that can cast a lot of shadows with difficult to manage highlights.
choosing the location
Select a location that aligns with your brand and the message you want to convey. Consider the aesthetics, lighting, and relevance to your industry. What do your competitors images look like? What style is considered the norm in your industry? Please visit the location in advance to assess its suitability and identify potential challenges prior to the day.
your equipment/ props
It’s a good idea to incorporate your brand elements and props strategically into the photographs. This could include showcasing your products, logos, or specific workplace features that represent your brand’s identity. The equipment and props you’ll need depends on the goals of the imagery, but a typical setup at a corporate office will include digital devices such as laptops and mobile technology. Where as an industrial workplace could include heavy lifting equipment and power tools. Another element that works well is for employees to all wear their branded workplace clothes/ uniforms all ironed and crease free. Finally, please ensure that all health and safety equipment for staff and the areas we are photographing are all correct and in place. This ensures imagery is not rejected post shoot by your organisation due to us failing to meet the health and safety guidelines. If in doubt please talk with your health and safety team prior to the shoot date.
employee involvement and time
To increase the authenticity of your images it’s best to have people in them, so I recommend organising staff prior to the shoot date to help with this. What if you don’t have staff? Well, you can call on family and friends to help! Communicate your vision clearly to all involved prior to the shoot date if possible and acknowledge that we will be shooting scenes multiple times because staff are not trained models.
No one enjoys being behind the camera (unless you are a professional model), so don’t expect them to get the poses and scene correct first time. Saying that, the way that I shoot workplace imagery, I can ensure that all talent or employees feel part of the event and we will get the best results. I also recommend Portfolio Models or Katarina Model Agency in Christchurch if you want professional talent on the day.
what cameras do I use?
I use Canon professional cameras with L- Series lenses, and have done for more than a decade. I pair them with high powered portable studio lighting and large flattering studio modifiers (the big white boxes that the flashes go in). We can also create images with that characteristic background blur (Bokeh) if required. The final image size is large enough for most common publications, and online profiles.
what does post editing mean?
Post-production editing is a crucial step to enhance your photos after the shoot. I use professional editing software to adjust colors, contrast, and exposure. I also tidy up the scene by maintaining a consistent style throughout the images to reinforce your brand’s visual identity. This part of the post editing process is the most time consuming as I often employ Photoshop and AI to remove objects such as bags, plug sockets, chairs, peoples belongings and stains to the floor for example.
If the scene is tidy prior to starting this will cut down the post editing time considerably and ensure we don’t exceed our agreed and allocated post editing time. My post editing is not about changing elements dramatically. This can be done of course, but will require extensive Photoshop work at an additional cost, and is best discussed as part of the booking or during the session itself.
permissions
Depending on the location, you may need permits or permissions to conduct a commercial photoshoot. Check with local authorities and property owners to ensure you have the necessary approvals. You may also want to get your talent/ employees to sign a model release form to ensure you can use the photos on your marketing and advertising campaigns. I like to use official Getty Images releases. You can download a property release here, and model release here.
any questions?
Feel free to call me on 0210336047 to chat more, or email me.
