PhotoWest is always on the lookout for talented corporate and event photographers. If you think you fit this description then we want to hear from you. There are a few things to know first. PhotoWest subcontract work to experienced photographers. As such you will need to be able to provide a portfolio of work, preferably low light – no highlights, the whole event. Approval of photography will be subject to approval of from the client.
Equipment
You will be at least expected to own and use:
- Two modern digital cameras
- Lenses – these must cover the appropriate range (e.g., a 70-200 and a 24-70); Lenses must be fast (eg at least f/2.8, or image stabilised)
- A sturdy camera stand
- Appropriate flashes – brand is relatively unimportant, but they must have high guide numbers
You are also recommended to own: a light meter; remote triggers for flashes and cameras; lighting stands; strobes; umbrellas; and backdrops.
Style
PhotoWest treats event photography similarly to wedding photography. PhotoWest does not accept photojournalistic work – treat our events like weddings.
All photos are to be supplied as RAW files to PhotoWest. Photographers working for PhotoWest are not expected to process photos, and will not be remunerated for processing unless agreed to, in writing. PhotoWest has a specific style and requires files are processed in a manner.
All photos are expected to be properly exposed, with a minimum of grain – this is subject to the discretion of PhotoWest and approval from the client. For low light events flash and ambient light are expected to be balanced properly to ensure that the maximum ambient light is exposed in order to bring out the background of photos.
Photographers are expected to show a high attention to detail. Please remember that everything was organised by someone, and they have an emotional attachment to it. Therefore, if care has been taken to create centerpieces or displays, they must be captured. Treat all corporate events like a wedding day.
While harsh shadows and specular highlights are sometimes unavoidable (we understand photography in difficult conditions), photographs are expected to keep them to an absolute minimum using appropriate techniques (bounced flash, umbrellas, diffusion, etc…)
You will be expected to know how to manage stage props in your photos – no microphones covering mouths, people separated from backgrounds, no hard shadows, etc…
Behaviour
PhotoWest photographers are expected to be gregarious. It is the responsibility of photographers to actively approach the people for photographs, and to show initiative. All VIPs should be noted, greeted by the appropriate salutations when appropriate, and captured in a way that shows respect to their station. All important events are to be captured to the best of the photographers ability – Speeches, handshakes, awards presentations (with poses afterwards), etc…
Professional Standards
Although there are no legal guidelines that stipulate who might call themselves professional there are standards that PhotoWest photographers are expected to adhere to. Failure to provide photos which conform to that which PhotoWests dictates as professional will result in non-payment, and the photographer may be liable for damage done to the reputation of PhotoWest.
The following are examples of what is expected in terms of image quality. It is excepted that not every photo will be hung on the wall, but the keep rate of photos must be above 90%.