Sometimes business photography can be all fun and games
Putting an event on for your customers can be stressful. There are venues to lock down, catering options to choose and even door prizes to consider. The decision to hire a professional photographer shouldn’t add to your anxiety. Finding a photographer who’s a good match for you should make the event run smoother and add to the enjoyment for all. I recently had the opportunity to work with Bryan Bentley and Katie O’Groske with Bell Bank on a client appreciation event at The Fair on 4 in Bloomington, MN. The venue was a fantastic choice for families and young couples alike, offering activities and libations for all. I wanted the images to match the energy and excitement of the event. The hosts had their own reasons and directions for professional photos from their event. Following are the top 5.
5. Your customers are the stars of the show.
With a professional photographer taking on the documentation of your event you’re free to make your guests feel extra special instead of worrying about taking photos. Putting the camera down allows you the freedom to genuinely engage in meaningful conversation, build on your existing relationships and even spark new ones. In addition, depending upon the terms you agree to with your photographer, you may be able to pass along photos of your guests to them as a thank-you for coming to the event or as a token of appreciation for choosing to do business with you.
4. Brand recognition.
Good event photographers are always on the lookout for visual cues to bring your brand into their compositions. This helps to remind your audience in a more subtle way that there still is a business behind all the planning and it can be great way to build your brand awareness as well as that of sponsors and partnering companies.
3. Overcome technical challenges.
Most corporate events will not take place in ideal conditions for photography. While it’s true just about everyone carries a pretty decent camera with them everywhere they go (in the form of a smart phone) some times years of expertise and professional equipment are required to deal with lighting that’s too bright or too dark. Unless you know your way around ISOs and f-stops the candid images of your guests enjoying themselves may not have the polished look you’re seeking.
2. Encourage future attendance.
You’ve probably heard the adage (paraphrasing to my best knowlege): “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is now.” Basically, you need to take action now to have an impact on your future. Event photography is an easy yet impactful way to take the first step in promoting your future events. A collection of images that showcase past attendees enjoying themselves lets others know you know how to take care of your guests and encourages others to participate in future events. For conventions, that can mean more registrations and for appreciation or awards-based events that means a broader audience with which to share your message.
1. Social posting.
People love to see pictures of themselves, especially when they’re high-quality images. When you’ve said your farewells and put away the party favors what will last from your event are the memories made. Posting professional photos can boost your audience engagement and SEO as your clients view, comment and share the images from your event. As a bonus, quality images will speak to your professionalism without having to say a word!
