Behind the Photography Process: From Concept to Delivery
Creating stunning visuals starts with a creative concept. Photography covers a wide range of visual content, from fashion campaigns and lifestyle shoots to product images and portraits. Whatever the particular visual requirement, there are certain stages all photographers go through to move through the creative process – from concept to delivery.
Client Brief and Creative Concept
Fashioning an idea begins with the client brief. A well-written brief from the client is essential for protecting a brand vision and taking into consideration the target audience and context. Armed with a clear brief, the photographer can move onto developing the concept, drawing inspiration from relevant sources and creating mood boards to display visual ideas and present to the client.
Research and Planning
Timely and effective planning is key to great photography results. Depending on the project requirement, research and preparation for the shoot could include studio hire, booking models and hair & makeup artists, organising props and equipment, location scouting, scheduling and budgeting. The end result should be a smooth running shoot where all the necessary components come together.
Shoot day
Shoot days are where the creative vision comes to life. On the day of the shoot, the photographer should arrive with the right technical and creative toolbox to capture the desired images. This includes lenses, lighting, reflective panels, props and backdrops to name but a few. Of course, the most important tool is the photographer’s creative vision and ability to shoot and direct models, or a team of creatives for a bigger production.
Editing and Delivery
Efficient editing and delivery ensures satisfaction for all involved. How you approach editing your photos can be the make-or-break element for the success of any project. Post-production tasks can include photo manipulation, colour correction, retouching and applying specific filters or aesthetic treatments, depending on the brief. Finally, once the work has been fully approved, the images will need to be delivered to the client in a suitable digital format.
Conclusion
The photographic process is a collaborative journey. Professional photography requires the successful delivery of a creative concept to its best potential. Working through the stages of the process, from client brief and creative concept through to the shoot day and finally, delivery of the edited images, the collaborative outcome can be a stunning visual result.
