It is no cliché that most historic images were documented by mostly documentary photographers or professional photojournalists. Documentary photography is mostly referred to a popular form of photography used to chronicle events or environments both significant and relevant to history and historical events as well as everyday life. This type of photography takes you literally everywhere in the world especially when you are given an assignment by agencies to document storytelling images in a particular location. There are techniques to everything you do in life which typically means that to prepare for an assignment as a documentary photographer there things one should know.
Many people simply pick up their camera bag and go without actually putting any thoughts into preparation that needs to take place before hand!
Here are tips or procedures you should take when preparing for an assignment:
- READ THE BRIEF ATTENTIVELY
- TRAVEL LIGHT
- WEAR COMFORTABLE FOOTWEAR
- CARRY WATER AND SNACKS
- HAVE A MENTAL IDEA OF YOUR SHOTS
- CARRY CASH FOR EMERGENCIES
- BE EARLY
READ THE BRIEF ATTENTIVELY
It is necessary that you painstakingly read the brief and any further instructions properly and attentively, taking note of the location, the time of your flight, or the time that you need to arrive at a particular place and importantly, the kind of images you’re expected to take. This will help you to prepare accordingly for your assignment.
TRAVEL LIGHT
Try to avoid unnecessary baggage and travel light. Take only the essentials with you, your equipment, clothes that will last you the duration of your trip, and any other essential items you believe you will be needing for your assignment like the spare batteries, a spare storage device, note pad to write down captions, ideas, etc.
WEAR COMFORTABLE FOOTWEAR
You absolutely don’t want to get frustrated when shooting on the field most likely you will be out on your feet the entire day, plus the weight of the equipment will definitely pull you down. Ensure that you are wearing comfortable footwear like boots, trainers, etc. this will help you to focus on your task rather than the pains and aches you are feeling all over your body.
CARRY WATER AND SNACKS
This may sound funny but it is actually very essential. There could be times where you are shooting and you realize that you don’t have ample time for a break. Carrying a bottle of water or drink and snacks with you will help you stay hydrated and keep your energy up until you find time to eat a proper meal.
HAVE A MENTAL IDEA OF YOUR SHOTS
This just makes your work easier by knowing the kind of shots that you envisioned. In order words have a list of shots you want to get e.g. portraits, action, close up, etc. this will serve as a guide. This will enable you to be more time-efficient when shooting as you already know what you are looking for instead of shooting randomly.
CARRY CASH FOR EMERGENCIES
You wonder why this part of the list? You never know the kind of situations you might find yourself in so always endeavor to have some cash. A credit or debit card is not sufficient as you might be in a place where they do not accept cards.
BE EARLY
Have you heard this saying “being on time is already too late”? Well, guess what? It’s true! Always be at least 10 to 20minutes early for your assignments, this will leave you with enough time to spot check where you are, set your camera settings, and overall. This is what we call knowing your environment to help you take your prepared shot.
