What to expect from an on-location photo shoot

If you're being photographed at your own workplace rather than in a studio, it's natural to wonder how the day will actually go. Here's what to expect.

On-location photography is popular with people whose surroundings say something about what they do — vets, GPs, builders, and plenty of other roles where the setting adds real context to the image. It gives viewers an immediate sense of who you are and what you do, rather than a generic backdrop.

It also tends to feel more relaxed. Studio setups — the lighting, the backdrop, someone directing your every move — aren't comfortable for everyone. Being in a familiar environment, doing what you'd normally do, often makes people feel more like themselves in front of the camera, and that comes through in the images.

Getting Ready

A few simple things help the day run smoothly:

  • Pick the spot before I arrive: somewhere that says what you do, ideally with decent natural light

  • Tidy whatever will be in shot. Clear the desk, put the kettle out of sight

  • Get a haircut about a week before, not the morning of

  • Wear what you’d wear on a good day at work, and nothing you haven’t sat down in

Shooting a whole team

If I’m photographing your team, up to 50 people in a day is possible. That’s around ten minutes each, which is plenty for a relaxed, consistent set of portraits when the setup stays the same.

Afterwards

You’ll get a private proofing gallery to choose your favourites from. I edit your picks and send them back in high resolution, normally within a week.

Prefer full control over lighting and background? Here’s what to expect from a studio shoot.

Get in touch to book your session.