The Shoot Day has finally arrived! Let’s gather our gear and pack our bags for the shoot. We will need our Shot List and Location Scout Sheet to help determine what equipment will be needed.
Camera Body + Lens
For this particular shoot, I plan to only use one lens. Using a telephoto lens during this shoot will allow me the flexibility to capture many perspectives at variable distances. With the amazing landscape, I want to make sure I can capture close up portraits if needed, and to also capture wide establishing shots as well.
Backup Memory + Power
The worst feeling is when you are on location and ready to shoot, but you realize you left your memory in the card reader at home. You start ‘googling’ the closest store that sells the memory card for your specific camera. Causing an immense amount of stress for you and your clients. This is exactly the reason why I make sure to triple pack my back up memory and power. Double packing is ensuring that there is memory and power in 2 places. Memory and power should always be in camera before departure to location and also stored securely in the camera bag. Automatically ensuring the camera is ready to go and backed up when needed.
Silhouette of Photography Hobbyist with Camera on a Tripod During Sunset.
Stability + Balance
External Stabilizing during production is always the best way to achieve true stable shots, whether you are capturing stills or video. Having a Tripod or Rig is essential on-location. I have been using a lightweight tripod that is about 2.5 feet when truncated and 5 feet when fully expanded. This has been more than enough for my needs, although I often use a few sand bags to hold the tripod down when using heavier lenses.
Photo By AtlantaStockPhoto.com
Lighting
On- Location, most times you can handle all your lighting needs with a simple speedlight. This is the best for traveling light. However, there are times when a light stand and soft box are needed to create a more dynamic scene or light an entire group shot. This is when I believe a reflector/diffuser screen with a retractable light stand can be of great use. They are super light weight and can be easily carried from one location to the next. Reflectors are a great tool to utilize when you are in harsh sunlight conditions, to eliminate the shadows.
Carrying a vintage camera on the countryside. Film photography
Basic Living Essentials
Be sure to coordinate with your local weather. Our TakePicsHere location listings are packed with useful information like local weather conditions and a Google map. This will allow you to plan your wardrobe and food options. On Shoots, I always opt to bring a snack and refillable water-bottle. This allows me to fight and fatigue and stay engaged in the shoot for the full duration required. The most essential tool at your disposal is your phone, as it comes in handy in safety-related incidents. So it is most important that it remains charged up during the shoot. I personally love to use portable power packs. They are durable and relatively inexpensive. For less than 2 hours of charging, you can be sure to have your phone available. If you are traveling by plane, be sure to check with your airline to see if your portable power packs can be flown.
