Photography is a profession with some photographers. Because of this there are expectations on both sides of the camera. I wanted to share some thoughts on the profession of the type of photography that I do. As always, I will caveat these are only my observations and experiences on the business of being a professional photographer. Other photographers and / or individuals hiring a photographer may have different opinions and experiences.
General observations:
Call Sheet - If a photographer sends a call sheet (or equivalent), please read it. A call sheet documents the photoshoot details including details like: the time, location, image use, creative team names, contact information, items to bring, etc. The call sheet is the creative team’s (photographer, makeup artist, stylist, model, etc.) go-to document to make sure the photoshoot goes smoothly, terms and conditions are confirmed and questions are answered. After receiving the call sheet if you have ANY questions then followup. If you haven’t received the call sheet ask for one.
Mood Board - A moodboard is a collection of images that represent the theme or vibe of the photoshoot. The moodboard provides guidance to all members of the photoshoot on how makeup is to be applied, hair styles, fashion, lighting, posing, expression, vibe, etc. It’s important that all parties review the moodboard and understand what’s expected. It’s “normally” the photographer (or the person coordinating the photoshoot) who puts together the moodboard. However, the photographer may request input from others.
If you are a member of the photoshoot and haven’t received the moodboard then ask for one. If you have any questions or concerns then followup BEFORE the photoshoot.
Turn Around Time – Editing / post-processing will take time. Traditionally, a photographer will let you know in advance / on the call sheet the approximate turnaround time for editing. This varies with each photographer and the photographer’s backlog but as an example I normally request 30-45 days to turn around edited images for a normal photoshoot. I document this on the call sheet and when quoting my rates.
If the photographer hasn’t told you the amount of time for turning images around, then it’s best that you ask BEFORE the photoshoot and get it in writing. If you need a quicker turnaround time then request in advance.
Ask for Photos – At the same time, if the photographer is not meeting the turn around time you have EVERY right to follow-up the photographer. Ask politely for a turnaround time or an update. If you are agency signed then ask for assistance from your agency
Get What You Paid For – Don’t ask for more photos than agreed unless you are willing to pay for additional edits. This applies to both paid (photographer or model is paid) or collaborations At the same time if you don’t get the number committed then you have the right to ask for the additional photos.
Contact Details - Provide a contact phone number. Get the photographer’s phone number (it should be on the call sheet). I will always ask for your phone number so I can reach out (almost always via text) if there are any last minute changes or to confirm last minute details. You should also provide your DM information as well if requested.
One note, if you are agency signed and the photoshoot was arranged by your agency then almost all communications will be directly through the agency in most cases.
Collaborations / Trade Shoots (TFP) - Most photographers do collaborations or TFP (free) shoots occasionally. Collaborations are a great way to get good content and everyone gets something in return (practice, trying new makeup styles, working with someone new, testing equipment, etc.) However, some don’t. Therefore, if you book a photographer you should expect to pay for the photoshoot. It’s perfectly OK to for a TFP photoshoot, but don’t take it personally if the answer is no.
Photographer’s Rates – Ask a photographer for his / her rate sheet or photoshoot cost. Ask what you receive for the rate. Be reasonable with your negotiations. Don’t be offended if the photographer doesn’t negotiate, can’t meet your budget or says NO. Remember, this is business.
Follow-up – If you ask a photographer for their rates or express an interest in shooting then PLEASE provide the courtesy of following-up. Even a “thanks for sending your rates”, “thanks but that’s more than I can spend at this time”, or “thanks I’ll let you know if I want to schedule something in the future” is appreciated. Don’t leave the photographer hanging. This is expecially important if you are asking for specific dates available.
Requesting Images – This may be obvious, but tell the photographer what images you want (unless it’s agreed that the photographer will pick for you). Also please make the request in a timely fashion. I’m always amazed at the number of times I get never hear back from the person I’ve worked with requesting images after sending a proof sheet. I generally send a follow-up email after 30 days but if I hear nothing back I assume you do not want images.
Be Sure To Pay – I’ve been burned, and it’s not fun. If it’s a paid photoshoot, then pay as agreed. As a general business practice I require payment either before the shoot starts or immediately after the photoshoot. Don’t expect to receive photos until after you pay. Corporate clients may not be able to do this, but the payment details should be discussed before the shoot. Details / how to pay will be on the call sheet.
Shadowing a Shoot – I receive requests to be shadowed, assist or watch the photoshoot from other photographers. It’s completely OK to ask, but don’t take it personally if the answer is no. It’s sometimes hard to focus on the client or people you’re photographing if also watching over or talking with someone else. I’ve actually had a client tell me, “no one else on the set unless approved”. Ask the photographer if they host workshops or do one-on-one sessions.
No Changes – DON’T manipulate or change a photograph you receive. Don’t add a filter, don’t re-edit a photo, don’t put text on it, etc.
Give Credit – ALWAYS give your photographer & creative team when posting a photo on social media.
These are just a few observations and thoughts associated with the profession of photography. Bottomline, the goal is to have a pleasant experience and that all parties get what they want out of the photoshoot.