Corporate Event Season in Florida

Assignment Challenges

Planning & Scheduling: October through May is Corporate Event Season in Florida. Sometimes we get multiple clients with multiple day events overlapping each other requiring multiple photographers. Pairing the best photographer for each client can sometimes be challenging. I usually take on the jobs that include executive headshots, large group photos and multi-media slideshows. My associate photographer of 15 years, Jim Monahan can handle headshots, general sessions, speakers, awards and receptions. I also work with David Wright who provides a Photo-Booth experience and Malachi Cull my videographer.

Agendas: It's nice to receive a preliminary agenda when trying to plan and schedule photographers. For some reason, it's like pulling teeth getting our clients to provide one. It's almost like we are expected to just go with the flow, so why do you need an agenda? Agendas help us be prepared with the right equipment and the right time. Knowing what to expect is very helpful to photographers and videographers.

 Logistics: Bringing the best Equipment (and back-up equipment) for the job. Moving seamlessly from one ballroom to another, one hotel to another and to off site venues takes planning and communication with the client,  Meeting Planners and Hospitality Professionals.

Making sure the right photographer is at the right event at the right time with the right equipment.

Weather: We have no control over it, BUT we have to plan for it. Like having backup equipment, it is important to have a back-up plan to account for inclement weather. Hospitality Professionals and Meeting Planners have to consider weather, every-time they plan an outdoor event.  On this particular week, Tampa had to deal with Hurricane Nicole.