A Guide to Working with News Photographers
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Transcript of A Guide to Working with News Photographers
A GUIDE TOWORKING WITH NEWS
PHOTOGRAPHERS
The mostshared content across allplatforms contains some kind of visualasset, whether image, infographics or
video.
News outlets use photography to sellpapers, entice clicks and, most
importantly, to tell powerful stories.
“Iconic and memorable photos are almostnever made at staged opportunities unless
things go very, very badly,”
Amber Bracken, President,News Photographers Association of Canada
When things go well...
Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau paddles a canoedown the Bow River in Calgary, Alta. on Sept. 17,
2015.
(Jonathan Hayward/Canadian Press)
When things go badly...
Former Alberta Premier Ralph Kleincatching a pie with his face.
(Adrian Wyld/Canadian Press)
If your event has genuine newsworthinessand offers a good photo opportunity,here are some tips to keep in mind...
1. KEEP IT REAL
Don’t over plan or stage ridiculous activities
The best pictures (and coverage) will come fromevents for real stakeholders and thecommunity
Photographers only need a reasonableamount of access and they can make the
photos on their own without your art direction no matter how well intentioned.
2. LET THEM WORK
A photographer with limited access is a frustrated,unhappy photographer
It can be thoughtful to provide a riser, but don'tmake it mandatory for photographers to stand on it
3. DON'T BOX THEM IN
Clutter in the background or unsightly wallsbehind the subject or podium will make for anunattractive and possibly unusable shot
4. CONSIDER THESIGHT LINES
If your event is in a dark room, be sure to plan forprofessional stage lighting
Avoid placing a podium in a spot that is stronglybacklit or in the shade when the background is in thesun
5. LET THERE BE LIGHT
If a news outlet informs you that they’re sending a
photographer, let your VIPs know so they areprepared (photography activity can be distracting)
Ensure security and other staffers are aware andable to provide necessary clearance
6. ARRANGE ACCESS
While you can often purchase usage rightsto news photographs, it’s always a good
idea to hire your own photographer, whoseshots you can art direct.
Contact CNW Images to book a professionalphotographer for your next event!
To learn how to achieve more editorial coverage,
download our white paper,
All Press is Good Press: Best Practices forCreating MediaFriendly Content
www.newswire.ca
1877CNW7890
@CNWGroup
