Photographing an Event

PHOTOGRAPHING AN

EVENT

Allen Loibner-Waitkus, MJE Photographing an Event • Allen Loibner-Waitkus, MJE • UA-PTC • 1

INTRODUCTION Life magazine, which was published weekly from 1883 to 1972 and the monthly until 2002, is considered the gold standard when it comes to photojournalism and covering an event. The secret to their success was a formula of specific shots all photographers should take when covering an event. I have listed the formula, and you should use it when shooting Assignment #4.

NOTE The images used are not the greatest. For the sake of time, I used stock images. The example event is a birthday party, but the images come from a variety of parties. I think you will still get the general idea.

–ALW

2 • Photographing an Event • Allen Loibner-Waitkus, MJE • UA-PTC

1

INTRODUCTORY SHOT

Often taken before or at the very start, this shot should help set the scene.

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2

MEDIUM SHOT

This photograph should focus on one activity or one group.

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3

PORTRAIT

This shot should be unposed and provide characterization of someone involved in the event.

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4

INTERACTION SHOT

This should be a shot of two or more people interacting at the to event will help create drama.

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5

SIGNATURE SHOT

This shot should capture the essence of the story and often serves as the opening or cover photo.

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6

DETAIL/CLOSE-UP SHOT The point of this photo is to highlight a story-telling element that would otherwise go unnoticed.

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7

SEQUENCE OF SHOTS

This should be a how to, before and after, or a series with a beginning, middle and end.

It should give a sense of action.

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8

CLINCHER/CLOSING SHOT This is a final shot that will bring the story to a close.

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Designer: Allen Loibner-Waitkus, MJE

Cover Photograph Source: Stock Unlimited

Font Family: Exo

Colors: Black & Pantone 395, 1787 & 2925

Software: Adobe InDesign CC 2018

COLOPHON

lw

LOIBNER-WAITKUS

12 • Photographing an Event • Allen Loibner-Waitkus, MJE • UA-PTC