Booking Too Late
A notable pet peeve is being asked to photograph an event at the last minute. Typically, photographers tend to be at the bottom of an event planner’s checklist, despite having a crucial role in preserving memories and creating valuable marketing material. Book your photographer:
- 2-3 months in advance for major events
- 4-6 weeks minimum for smaller gatherings
- Even earlier during peak event seasons
Many companies discover too late that they don't have proper licensing for their intended use
Inadequate Shot List Planning
Without a shot list, a photographer is more likely to shoot blindly and not capture all of the essential images that the client needs. Avoid this by:
- Creating detailed shot lists in advance
- Sharing VIP lists and key moment timelines
- Designating someone to coordinate with the photographer
- Reviewing and updating shot lists before the event
Ignoring Usage Rights
Many companies discover too late that they don’t have proper licensing for their intended use. Clarify:
- Commercial usage rights for marketing materials
- Social media sharing permissions
- Print licensing for promotional materials
- Duration of usage rights
- Exclusivity arrangements
