Shooting photos and videos for stock sites
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What stands out at first glance in this photo? The warm atmosphere? Or the shopping bag in the center? Or the connection between these three women? Perhaps it is the human relationships in the photo?
This captured level of human connection is what made the photo very popular with buyers on Shutterstock, and the shot also reflects what buyers want from video on Shutterstock.
Clips showing people interacting with each other are in the highest demand among buyers. To inspire similar shoots, here is a list of useful tips for location shoots. They may also be helpful for studio photography and for shooting people in other environments.
Try filming in retail stores, restaurants, and other places where real life can be observed. Capture clips where people exchange money, smile, talk, and interact with each other in any available way.
Strive for authenticity and truthfulness in styling and design during shoots. As always – ethnic and age diversity in the clips is only a plus.
10 tips for shooting video and photos
Here are ten more tips that can help create successful video and photo content:
- Talk to local shop owners. It is obviously easier to get permission to shoot in the neighborhood shop than from a large supermarket chain where it is necessary to work through multiple management layers to obtain such permission.
- Work out an arrangement with the store. In exchange for permission to conduct a session, offer to film a video for the corporate website, take staff headshots, or handle any other needed shoot.
- Cannot get permission to shoot inside the store? Then simply film entrances and exits of shops and malls that are public spaces (Remember to avoid logos, trademarks, and architecturally recognizable buildings. See tip №7 just below).
- Scout the location in advance and draft a shot list. It is important to understand the lighting options, spatial features, and technical characteristics of the location, such as the placement of electrical outlets.
- Be open to closed and open shoots. During closed shoots only the crew and models are present. During open shoots the venue operates as usual and anyone may be present at the location.
- Do not forget model releases, which must be obtained for everyone visible in the frame. This is a mandatory requirement for all content sold under a commercial license on Shutterstock. Bring a few extra blank releases and be ready to explain the project’s details to people around.
- Carefully check for logos, trademarks, and other intellectual property. Their presence in a file may cause reviewers to reject it for sale under a commercial license. Note that some buildings can be identified by distinctive architectural features, so it is safer to obtain a property release from the building owner.
- Give the shoot a theme and direction. Make sure everyone (venue staff, models, crew) knows what to do and has aligned their actions in advance.
- Add a bit of spontaneity to the process. The best moments are captured when people feel free and behave naturally and confidently.
- Have a friend who also does photo or video? Team up and save. Simply share the costs of hiring models and renting equipment, and shoot together.
Good luck with the shoot!
Author: Shutterstock team
Source: www.shutterstock.com/buzz/tips-for-location-shoots
