Tap Room Podcast 50: Theatre Photography
My oldest son is big into theatre, it’s wasn’t something I surrounded myself during my younger years but as he’s progressed in acting i’ve become more involved. What caught my attention off the beginning was the subpar imagery that went out for the cast members and what I saw on social media. It was to the point where my wife and I volunteered to make sure proper images were created - we were a little selfish since our son was involved and wanted those also for ourselves.
This podcast isn’t about picking on theatre groups - high school, non profit or those in better financial situations; it’s about the groups thinking about ways to look for better quality imagery to also assist/promote their plays and productions and what publicity images can do for your theatre company.
My photography is a bit different then most, I like creative, composites and never hire outsiders to edit my work. I’ve also been in the business world for over 20 years and know the importance of quality imagery and messaging to get the word out. Also, my wife Erin is in marketing and knows better then I about the need for proper communication in both word and imagery.
If you have well-crafted brochures, ads, posters, social media, etc., people will expect that same quality will be on stage. The same can be said for any company. Photography is a MAJOR part of that quality product and to prepare the audience for the event to come.
Budget Accordingly…
This seems to be with most businesses, but especially small theatre groups and don’t seem to include photography into their marketing strategy. It seems a lot of groups rely on their iPhone snap a quick image and use this to promote their play and not focusing on quality.
An experience photographer can create unique theatre imagery, and/or marketing and commercial work, can evoke a mood to meet your creative concept of marketing a show – or help you develop one.
How to Choose A Good Theatre Photographer
Not every photographer is a theatre photographer, just like not every photographer is a maternity photographer. Usually, each photographer has a particular focus or specific genre they prefer and they’ll need Like other genres of photography, shooting theatre is a craft and has its own nuisances in areas of lighting on stage, but if you’re doing composites, you’ll need to create the theme to match the play.
In the past, I’ve gone to one of the final rehearsals after doing composites earlier and I can maneuverer around without impacting the audience and their experience. It was nice to not have to worry about interfering with the audience but also getting the lay of the land even during the production days to capture those moments.
Unique theatre photos and the lead up imagery are essential for theatre groups to assist in relaying their message and one great resource for advertising, for future campaigns, social media and increase overall awareness.
