I have NEVER done a ‘Gear Photo’ before. I have always thought it a bit tacky, perhaps a bit flash and a even a way to get a one-up on another photographer (‘well my gear is bigger than your gear!) Nevertheless, my first blog post on my brand-spanking new website, and HELLO I think you deserve to see a little behind the scenes action!
How do I prepare for a photo shoot?
no 1: Clean my lenses, charge batteries and format memory cards. This is a mundane chore (like flossing your teeth), but I just force myself to do it.
** I have done a whole shoot where my lens was dusty and this poor person had dots all over her face, on every shot. Cringe-worthy.
no 2: Check the location address, have it written down in at least two places and make sure your GPS/Google maps/iPhone is charged so you can actually GET THERE.
** I had an address on my iPhone and was following google maps, only for the phone to die as I turned into the street. I had to park and go house to house ringing doorbells, asking for the Finley Family, oh and do they have an phone charger? Thank goodness for decent people. Phone charged, address retrieved. Robyn arrived red faced at the Finleys.
no 3: I create an inspiration board for each shoot. I may print the ones where the shoots involve hair/make-up and styling, and bring it onto set to show the client and other contributors. I do the research the day before or morning before and arrive with a brain bursting full of creative ideas, techniques and notes on composition. Most of which goes out the window completely, but it helps me to feel prepared nonetheless.
There is so much more, but I think these three points above are really key. If you would like to know more about specific items in the traveling bag of photo gear, drop me a message and I will happily chat further.
Have a happy day folks!
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