Prior to the event or function, Neil always meets or talks to the event manager to ensure that he has a clear and detailed understanding of their expectations. Some managers require him to stay low profile and less visible while others desire more active involvement. In this case, he photographs the main speakers and VIPs but then also moves around looking for opportunities to capture the guests at each table and also on the dance floor. 

He much prefers getting involved because he feels the client gets much better value from their investment and has much more to show for it. He is also careful to dress appropriately for the more formal functions and will even don a tuxedo if required (and is willing to pay for the hire!). 

His regular event and function clients treat him as part of their team and most times ensure he is seated close to them. This way they can quickly instruct him to shoot impromptu and unplanned photos.

Always seat your photographer close by to speed up his/her reaction time. 

Here is a valuable tip if you are the speaker on the day – please don’t apply shiny moisturiser to your face especially if you are a man. The moisturiser wreaks havoc with both the flash light and stage lights because they create ugly string reflection highlights on the skin. Neil always carries neutral matt powder with him for such occasions. He encourages the men to apply it to the forehead, cheekbones and nose which ultimately makes for perfect pictures. His favourite quip is ‘all the great stars including sports folk get a powdering before going on camera’.

Points to Consider

Think about it this way “You should definitely put as much planning and effort in capturing the memory of your event as you did in actually making it happen…..” 

Don’t leave these important details to chance…especially when you can do the right thing – that is to hire a Professional Photographer to do a professional’s job.