Briefing an Architectural Photographer Before a Shoot

What is a briefing, or informational meeting, and why is it important for the photographer, architect, designer and marketing team if the final shoot is to be successful?

It is important to know the requirements, assumptions and possibilities on both sides. The intention of the shoot is best discussed together with the architect, designer, investor or marketing department. You should find out what the demands are, what the limits are and what other production options exist.

Either the client is used to briefing meetings for creative projects, or the photographer must initiate the meeting and ask questions that support the success of the shoot, delivery, promotion, invoicing and cooperation on another project.

I would mention a few points worth answering, although everything depends on the nature of the project. Not every point is necessary for every shoot.

• When the shoot will take place and when the photographs must be delivered.
• How many photographs are expected.
• What the budget is.
• Who will use the photographs.
• How access to the location will be arranged, for example offices on a weekend or a closed construction site.
• What the purpose of the photographs is and where they will be used.
• How colour accuracy of certain elements will be ensured, for example product colour codes or RAL numbers.
• Whether extras or people will be involved.
• Minimum image resolution and colour format.
• Compositions prepared for advertising text.
• Requirements for weather, time of day and season.

Communication before the shoot helps you avoid problems on location and other unexpected complications that could negatively affect production and cooperation. You do not want to deliver the photographs and then discover that the client had a different idea and is not satisfied with your work.

It is useful to connect the briefing with scouting, the location visit before the shoot, and if needed to understand the story of the space. Briefing and scouting can be combined: meet on location, inspect the spaces, prepare for the shoot day and discuss the client's requirements.

Architectural photographer Jiří Bednář