Commercial Photography
10 Insider Secrets for Social Media and Marketing
Yesterday I was over in Cambridge at a corporate 20th anniversary staff party and I was thinking about how to maximise the images taken and a blog has been born. So here are my thoughts for you, I hope it helps.
As we know corporate events can be a goldmine for capturing stunning photos that not only document the occasion but also serve as powerful marketing tools. As a professional photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how strategic photography can elevate an event and enhance a brand’s image. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, here are ten insider secrets to help you get the most out of your corporate event photos for social media and marketing.
Plan Ahead: Define Photography Goals
Set Clear Objectives
Before the event, take some time to define your photography goals. Are you aiming to capture the excitement of a product launch, the insights shared during a keynote speech, or the networking interactions among attendees? Having clear objectives will guide your photographer and ensure they capture the moments that matter most.
Personal Anecdote: I once worked with a security tech organisation that wanted to showcase their innovative culture at a conference. By focusing on candid shots of their team brainstorming and interacting with attendees, we were able to highlight their dynamic environment and attract potential investors.
Create a Shot List
A shot list is your best friend when it comes to event photography. Outline the key moments and people you want to capture. This could include speakers, audience reactions, networking sessions, and branded elements like logos and product displays. A well-thought-out shot list ensures nothing important gets missed.
Hire a Professional Photographer
Benefits of Professional Photography
Investing in a professional photographer can make a huge difference. Professionals bring expertise, high-quality equipment, and an eye for detail that can transform ordinary moments into extraordinary photos. See our Event and Conferences page here
Personal Anecdote: I remember covering a corporate event where the client initially considered using an amateur photographer. After seeing the difference in quality, they never looked back and have since booked professionals for all their events. The photos from that awards night became a key part of their marketing collateral.
Choosing the Right Photographer
When selecting a photographer, review their portfolio and check for experience in corporate events. Make sure their style aligns with your brand’s aesthetic. Don’t hesitate to have a conversation about your expectations and shot list.
Scout the Venue
Pre-Event Walkthrough
Do a walkthrough of the venue with your photographer before the event. Identify the best spots for photos and consider the lighting and background options. This pre-event preparation helps in planning for any challenges and maximizing the venue’s potential.
Venue Features to Highlight
Look for unique architectural features, branded decor, and any elements that reflect your brand’s identity. These can serve as perfect backdrops for your photos, adding a distinct touch to your event imagery.
Optimize Lighting
Natural vs. Artificial Lighting
Lighting is crucial in photography. Utilize natural light whenever possible, but also be prepared to set up additional lighting if needed. Good lighting can make all the difference between a mediocre photo and a stunning one.
Lighting Techniques
Avoid harsh shadows by using soft, diffused lighting. This can be achieved with softboxes or reflectors. Good lighting techniques enhance the overall quality of the photos and make them more appealing.
Engage Attendees
Encouraging Participation
Interactive photo stations and branded photo booths can encourage attendees to participate and have fun. This not only creates engaging content but also makes the event more memorable for the participants.
Personal Anecdote: At a recent event, we helped set up a branded photo booth with props. The attendees loved it, and the spontaneous, fun photos were a hit on social media, increasing the event’s online engagement significantly.
Capturing Authentic Moments
Candid shots often tell the best stories. Encourage your photographer to capture genuine interactions and moments of engagement. This adds authenticity to your photos, making them more relatable and engaging.
Incorporate Branding
Strategic Placement of Brand Elements
Ensure your brand elements are prominently featured in the photos. This includes logos, banners, and product displays. Thoughtful placement of these elements reinforces your brand identity in every shot.
Consistent Visual Identity
Maintain a consistent visual style that aligns with your brand guidelines. This consistency helps in creating a cohesive look for all your marketing materials, enhancing your brand’s recognition.
Leverage Social Media Opportunities
Real-Time Posting
Share live updates and behind-the-scenes content during the event. Real-time posting creates buzz and keeps your audience engaged. Use stories, live videos, and quick snapshots to capture the event’s energy.
Personal Anecdote: During a internal awards event, we posted real-time updates of key moments on social media. The immediate engagement and excitement from the audience were incredible, boosting the event’s visibility and reach.
Hashtags and Mentions
Promote event-specific hashtags and encourage attendees to use them. Tag relevant accounts and influencers to extend your reach. Hashtags and mentions help in organizing event content and increasing its discoverability.
Post-Event Photo Management
Curating and Editing Photos
After the event, carefully curate and edit the photos. Select the best shots that tell the story of the event and reflect your brand’s message. Basic editing for consistency in color, exposure, and composition is essential.
Organizing for Easy Access
Organize the photos into categories for easy access. Use digital asset management tools to store and manage your photos efficiently. This makes it easier to find and use the photos for future marketing efforts.
Utilize User-Generated Content
Encouraging Attendee Contributions
Encourage attendees to share their photos using a specific hashtag. Create incentives like photo contests or giveaways to motivate participation. User-generated content adds diversity to your event coverage and engages your audience.
Personal Anecdote: At a music festival I photographed, we ran a photo contest encouraging attendees to share their best moments. The response was overwhelming, and the user-generated content provided fresh perspectives on the event.
Highlighting UGC in Marketing
Feature attendee photos on your official channels and give credit to the contributors. This not only showcases different viewpoints but also builds a sense of community around your brand.
Measure Success and Gather Feedback
Analyzing Engagement Metrics
Review the performance of your event photos on social media and other platforms. Look at metrics like likes, shares, comments, and website traffic. Analyzing these metrics helps in understanding what worked and how to improve in the future.
Feedback from Attendees and Stakeholders
Collect feedback from attendees and stakeholders through surveys and interviews. Their insights can help you refine your approach and enhance future events.
Conclusion
Maximizing corporate event photography requires careful planning, professional execution, and a keen eye for detail. By following these insider secrets, you can ensure that your event photos are not only high-quality but also powerful tools for social media and marketing. Remember, great photos tell a story, and your corporate events have incredible stories to share. So, get out there, capture those moments, and watch your brand shine!
Take it from here and smash your next corporate event
Take these tips and start implementing them at your next corporate event. Whether you’re aiming to enhance your brand’s social media presence or create lasting marketing assets, these best practices will help you achieve your goals. Happy planning!