When asked, “At what point should writers be brought into a project?”, Roy Peter Clark responded, “Early, early, early. And did I mention: early.”

When asked, “At what point should designers be brought into a project?”, Andy Budd replied, “The sooner you can get a professional consultancy involved the better.”

And now it’s our photographers’ turn.

Bill

At what point should your profession be brought into the project? — I’m very happy to be brought into the project at any stage the designers or clients feel comfortable with! It sometimes happens that a client may not fully predict what it will take photographically and logistically to realize their vision, and because of that a pre-set budget may prove unrealistic. So, from that point of view, consulting with the photographer, at least in a preliminary way, early on can be very worthwhile.

Bill Wisser | Advertising and Editorial Photographer
Bill Wisser Photo.com | The Naked Eye

Bruce

Involve me as soon as you have questions. Any questions.

Bruce DeBoer | Photographer
DeBoerWorks Photographic Productions

Jeffrey

It depends on the creative needs of the project. If the project requires strong meaningful imagery, then you’ll want us involved from the very beginning. If you are commissioning a photographer based on their creative approach, then get all of that creativity you can and bring them early. If the project requires a simpler visual you’ll be able to find several photographers that can fulfill your needs with a simple explanation of your idea.

Jeffrey Jacobs | President
Jeffrey Jacobs Photography Inc.

Jon

When the seeds of a creative idea have blossomed into a layout and concept. Trying to estimate a shoot cost on a “what’s your day rate” question is impossible. A photographer needs to know what they are expected to shoot, where, when, do they need to hire crew, location scouts/permits, models, catering etc etc. and most important of all what are the images going to be used for (print/web/billboards/pos etc), where (UK/USA/World), and for how long (1yr/2yrs etc.). This enables the estimate to be built around the usage of the images.

Jon Boyes | Advertising and Editorial Photographer
Jon Boyes

Patrick

I really think as early as possible into the initial conceptualization of a project. Many designers have great concepts for a project, unfortunately due to budget restraints, scheduling(deadlines), and technical issues these concepts are just not realistic. By bringing in a photographer early enough these restraints can be worked around, while also allowing the photographer and his staff enough time to do all the needed groundwork before photography actually starts. it takes time to find that one particular prop.

Patrick Chuprina | Photographer
Chuprina Studios

Rochelle

Once the direction of a project has been determined, a photographer could be consulted. A photographer will want guidelines as to the visual goals for the project and how much creative freedom he/she has to achieve them. Often the photography will help to re-direct the initial concept, so it shouldn’t be left to the end of the project (ie: not just for filling in the boxes!).

Rochelle Dahl | Photographer & Designer
Rochelle Dahl Designs

Tom

The earlier the better, always. Once you decide a photographer is necessary, you should start shopping to see who’s style will convey your message. This is a vital step in the process, every photographer has their own style and methods. You want to make sure the photographer is available and willing to work within the project requirements.

Tom Smalling | Photographer
Tom Smalling Photography & Design | Tom Smalling’s Photography Blog

Will

When a designer is in the concept talk stages with their client is probably a good stage for the photographer to come in. This allows them to be a more active team player on the project.

Will Williams | Photographer and Designer
Perspective-Images.com

Next up is the not so simple subject of “How photographers charge”.

until the next
Designers WW,
cat