Kevin O'Leary Shark Tank Star - Keynote Speaker
Assignment Details
Client: State National Companies / Atmosphere Designs
Assignment: Meet and Greet with Shark Tank Star Kevin O'Leary
Location: Streamsong Resort
Date: April 2024
Assignment Highlights
Photographing Kevin O'Leary as a keynote speaker at a corporate event is an exciting opportunity to capture some truly memorable moments in the presence of a TV personality.
Kevin O'Leary is known for his commanding presence and strong personality, both on and off the screen. As he takes the stage to deliver his keynote address, I had the chance to capture his dynamic presence that earned him the name Mr. Wonderful.
One of the most rewarding aspects of photographing celebrity like Kevin O'Leary is capturing the reactions of the audience as he talks about Shark Tank, other members of the panel and the many success stories.
I really enjoyed the last minute opportunity to photograph him next to the giant Megalodon shark jaws that is displayed in the lobby of the Streamsong Resort.
Assignment Challenges
Photographing an intimate corporate event featuring a keynote speaker like Kevin O'Leary from Shark Tank certainly presents its own unique set of challenges, but it sounds like an exciting opportunity to capture some truly memorable moments. With such events, the goal is often to strike a balance between professionalism and intimacy, ensuring that you capture both the formal aspects of the event and the more personal interactions.
Here are a few potential challenges you might encounter, along with some strategies to overcome them:
- Limited Space: Intimate events can sometimes be held in smaller venues, which can make it challenging to move around and find the best angles for your shots. Arrive early to familiarize yourself with the space and plan your shooting locations accordingly. Consider using a wide-angle lens to capture more of the scene in tight spaces.
- Low Light Conditions: Many corporate events are held indoors with subdued lighting, which can be difficult to work with, especially if you prefer to shoot without flash. Invest in a fast lens with a wide aperture (such as f/2.8 or lower) to let in as much light as possible. You may also need to increase your ISO setting to maintain a fast enough shutter speed to avoid motion blur.
- Capturing Candid Moments: While formal shots of Kevin O'Leary delivering his keynote are important, don't forget to also capture candid moments that convey the atmosphere and mood of the event. Keep your camera ready at all times to capture spontaneous interactions between attendees, as these can often be some of the most memorable shots.
- Navigating VIP Protocol: As a photographer, you'll need to navigate any VIP protocols in place for high-profile speakers like Kevin O'Leary. Make sure to communicate with event organizers beforehand to understand any restrictions or guidelines regarding photography, particularly when it comes to photographing the speaker up close or during specific moments of the event.
- Maintaining Professionalism: Finally, remember to conduct yourself with professionalism and discretion throughout the event. While you want to capture genuine moments, be mindful not to intrude on private conversations or disrupt the flow of the event. Respect any boundaries set by attendees and be mindful of the image you project as a representative of your photography business.
Our Solution
By anticipating these challenges mentioned above, preparing accordingly, and my many years of experience, I was well-equipped to capture stunning images that showcased the unique energy and atmosphere of the day.
There is no substitute for experience!