It’s all fun and games during a photo shoot until things don’t go according to plan and that’s why it’s so important to plan ahead. Of course all photographers have learned this the hard way at some point in their career and that’s why I am here ready to give you the lowdown, so pay close attention!
The biggest problem I found myself having when I first started out was controlling my battery power. I would leave my home with a full battery and positive attitude ready to conquer the evening. By the end of the night I was turning off my camera every 20 seconds trying to save that last percentage of the battery, while being full of anxiety. The night before a photo shoot you should make sure you have two fully charged batteries. Yes, two. This way you don’t have to worry about when you might run out and possibly miss some great shots. I went to Best Buy and purchased my second battery for about 30 bucks. A battery for a camera lasts an average of four hours, so if you have two, you’re pretty much golden. Trust me, it’s worth it.
Another thing that’s great to have is a durable camera strap. I myself am constantly leaning, bending, and crouching down and I always feel much better knowing that my camera isn’t going anywhere. Now, your camera should come with a basic, black strap and there should be straps available in the store as well. Please follow my advice and stay away from those straps. The strap you are given isn’t a very sturdy strap, plus it’s thin and flimsy. The straps in the store might be a tad bit thicker but they are going to be ridiculously expensive, ranging anywhere from $20-$40, that’s not worth it. My favorite place to shop for camera straps are Amazon and Etsy. I would say 95% of the time Amazon will sell the same strap online that you may have seen in the store except there’s a twist, it’s only about a third of the price! Plus, did you know that Best Buy will price match with Amazon? Never forget that! I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by price matching at that store. Now, Etsy sells a lot of homemade products so your straps are actually going to be better quality than those you’d find in the store. There is a type of strap that I have found on this website and they are called “the scarf camera strap.” I like these because they’re extremely comfortable and lightweight and very durable.
Having the proper protection for your camera is very important as well. I have a larger bag that holds my battery packs and memory cards. Also in that bag I carry a smaller bag that holds my lenses and that’s the bag I will use to carry with me during a shoot or event. The smaller bag you can buy in Best Buy for about $10 but the bigger bag I will refer you again to Amazon.
The last thing I’ll briefly talk about to help you prepare for a shoot is to make sure that you’re taking care of yourself. Going into a shoot without the right equipment is one thing but going into a shoot feeling exhausted, hungry or uncomfortable is another. Always make sure you’ve eaten a healthy meal before a photo shoot. I am talking about your fruits and veggies, protein and grains. Plus, make sure you are hydrated. Trust me, it’s not fun working a shoot all afternoon, looking through that lens with a headache. Also make sure you’re dressed properly. I always try to lean towards wearing some workout gear because I feel I can move around my best in them. Do not wear flip-flops or tight jeans which may constrict you from moving around. Lastly make sure you have enough rest. Photography can actually take a lot out of you, especially if you are at an all day event! So get your rest drink your fluids and dress to impress (but be comfortable)!
Excellent advice! Not many people think this far in advance for preparation.