From Flyer to Freelance: My Journey as an Aspiring Event Photographer

Discovering a Golden Opportunity:
Work experience for a job can be tough to find, but I was fortunate to find it through a flyer at a Jamaican takeaway shop. After a hard gym session, I decided to get some food at a shop called Patty Island. While waiting in line, I noticed a flyer for a Summer Cultural Market sale. Excited about the potential for event photography, I examined the flyer thoroughly, noting the Instagram link and a phone number. I checked their Instagram to see what I might be working with if I got this freelance job opportunity as an event photographer. The photos on their feed were poorly composed and the lighting was too dark.

Seeing this as a golden opportunity to create value for them and gain testimonials, exposure, and credit, I collected my food, rushed home, and devoured my rice and peas with jerk chicken. Then, I called the number on the flyer. I was filled with anticipation and worry, expecting possible rejection because they didn’t know me and might assume I wanted to be a vendor.

Making the Call:
Eventually, someone picked up. I introduced myself as Ahmed, explaining that I was an aspiring photographer seeking free work experience. I offered to photograph their event in exchange for high-quality photos and credit for my work. The person liked the idea and said they would get back to me, but I didn’t hear from them later that afternoon and evening.

Taking Initiative:
The next day, I texted the event organizer on WhatsApp, assuming the person I spoke with yesterday was different. I repeated my offer in text format, and she responded with a thumbs up. Unsure if this meant I could come in that day, I decided to gather my camera gear and go to the event location. Feeling a mix of excitement and fear of rejection, I took the bus, knowing that showing up in person could demonstrate my seriousness.

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​​Presenting My Proposal:
The event was held in a big hall with tungsten lights, off-white brick walls, and some exposed electrical systems. The venue was bustling with vendors showcasing African and Caribbean cultures. I asked around for the event organizers and met Rudy and Joana. Joana recognized my voice from our phone conversation and explained she had been too busy to get back to me. She asked me to remind her of my proposal and how it would benefit their business. I reiterated that I wanted to take photographs of the event for my portfolio, in exchange for high-quality photos and credit for my work.

They were happy with the offer and allowed me to take photographs of the event, with the understanding that I would show them the photos afterward so they could see what I had produced.

The Event Experience:
I didn’t have a detailed plan, but I knew to respect people’s right to not be photographed if they didn’t want to be. While photographing, I tried to engage with the vendors about their products and asked questions about marketing and outreach—important skills for getting more job opportunities in photography.

I took a variety of shots: portrait shots of the vendors, product photography of items related to the event, and candid shots of people interacting. I aimed for great candid shots because they capture people living in the moment, but my 18-55mm lens limited my ability to zoom in on interactions and centre them in the shot.

Reflection and Lessons Learned:
I really enjoyed my time as a freelance event photographer. Interacting with people and taking their photos was fun, and the event was rife with networking opportunities. Several people asked for my business card for future photography work.

I learned that I need a better zoom lens and should avoid looking at my camera after each shot, instead actively engaging with people at the event. Maintaining a positive vibe is crucial; taking photos and then walking away gives off a bad impression.

​ Planning for Future Events: 
Before attending an event, thorough planning is essential. Visiting the venue beforehand to note key factors such as weather conditions and event start times is crucial. Arriving early allows for equipment setup and test shots to determine the best settings. Observing other event photographers such as Jesse De Young, can provide valuable insights and help improve my techniques.

Mastering Camera Settings:
Mastering camera settings is paramount for capturing high-quality photos. I aim to create images with sharply focused subjects and beautifully blurred backgrounds. Practicing and learning the appropriate settings for ISO, shutter speed, and aperture is essential. Keeping a notebook with these settings and making adjustments based on the environment will help ensure consistently good results.

Inspiration and Future Goals:
Overall, this experience was wonderful and has inspired me to develop and improve as a photographer. I truly love taking photographs and aspire to make a living from it. This motivates me to gain as much experience as possible to pursue photography full-time. The event taught me new technical skills for controlling exposure and depth of field, as well as how to conduct myself professionally. Most importantly, it reminded me to have fun and promote good vibes at events.