Five photography tips for your next conference
I’ve photographed conferences of all sizes — from intimate leadership retreats to multi-day expos with thousands of attendees.
Whether you're planning your first event or you're a seasoned pro, here are some tried-and-true tips to help you get the most out of your conference photography.
1. Start with strategy
Before the event, define what success looks like for your photos. Is it audience engagement? Keynote highlights? Sponsor exposure? Photos should support your goals — not just document the agenda.
I always ask clients what they’ll be using the images for: Social media, marketing, press, internal comms — each use case calls for a slightly different approach.
2. Make room for storytelling and candid moments
Speakers on stage are just one part of the story. The real energy of a conference happens in the in-between moments: Check-in buzz, hallway chats, team huddles, audience reactions, and post-session connections. These are what make an event feel genuine and alive.
While posed group shots are useful, it’s the unscripted moments — a laugh, a candid exchange, an unexpected applause — that truly capture the spirit of the day. Those are the images people connect with most.
3. Communicate key moments
If you’ve got a big stage reveal, VIP appearance, or packed breakout session that’s important to your brand, make sure your photographer knows in advance. I work closely with planners and communication teams to stay aligned with the schedule so nothing critical gets missed.
4. Lighting can make or break it
Conference spaces are notorious for mixed lighting — from dim hotel ballrooms to overly bright fluorescent rooms. I come prepared with gear that handles challenging conditions, but it’s always a good idea to plan on soft, natural light or muted colors, which will always look more flattering.
5. Don’t wait until the last minute
If photography is important to your event (and it should be), loop your photographer in early. The earlier I’m involved, the better I can plan for the space, lighting, and your priorities. It’s also the best way to ensure availability — especially during peak conference season.
Your event is more than an agenda — it’s an experience. Great photography captures that experience in a way that connects with attendees, impresses stakeholders, and builds momentum for what’s next.
If you're planning a conference and want images that go beyond basic documentation, I’d love to connect. Let’s make something memorable.
