Want to get the best event photography tips for your next celebration, fundraiser, or business event in Market Drayton or Shropshire? Whether it’s a corporate launch or birthday party, getting great photos doesn’t happen by accident. These tips will help you and your photographer capture the energy and emotion of your event effortlessly.
This guide walks you through practical, easy-to-follow tips to make sure your event photography is everything it should be—and more.
1. Book Early for the Best Event Photography Results
The best photographers are often booked months in advance, especially for summer weekends and the Christmas period. Booking early ensures you can choose someone whose style matches your event and who can prepare alongside you. In Shropshire, demand spikes during wedding season, sports fixtures, and agricultural shows—so don’t wait!
2. Share the Schedule and Key Moments
Whether it’s the ribbon-cutting, a first dance, or the arrival of a special guest, let your photographer know what moments matter most. Providing a run-sheet (even a rough one) helps ensure nothing is missed. If you’re planning something spontaneous or fun—like confetti or a surprise speech—flag that up too.
3. Choose the Right Location
Good lighting and clear sight lines make a big difference. For indoor venues in Shropshire, check how much natural light comes through and whether the event space has overhead spotlights or ambient lighting. Outdoor events in Market Drayton benefit from open skies, but it’s wise to have a backup for rainy weather. Work with your venue and photographer to optimise setup areas for clean backgrounds and flattering light.
4. Keep It Uncluttered
Messy tables, plastic packaging, coat piles and cables can all creep into the background of your best shots. Before guests arrive, take a few minutes to clear key areas. If you’re hosting in a hall or marquee, ask the team to keep the front area tidy—especially if speeches or presentations will be happening there.
5. Make Time for Group Photos (Even Informal Ones)
While candid shots are a photographer’s dream, a few well-organised group photos help you remember everyone who came. If it’s a work event, grab the team. If it’s a birthday or anniversary, organise family or friends into one frame. These moments often become the most shared and treasured after the event.
6. Don’t Forget the Candid Magic
Some of the most memorable photos come from the in-between moments: laughter during a speech, spontaneous dancing, or guests deep in conversation. That’s why I often shoot documentary-style, blending into the background. Trust your photographer to capture these moments naturally without over-directing.
7. Brief One or Two Key People
Designate one or two people who know the crowd well—maybe a best man, event host, or organiser. Let them introduce the photographer to important guests or point out VIPs. This ensures no one important gets left out of the camera roll.
8. Lighting Tips for Great Event Photos
Photography is all about light. If your event runs into the evening, think about lighting design. Fairy lights, uplighters, candles, and well-placed spots all help create ambience—and great photos. Your photographer can bring their own flash, but nothing beats a well-lit room from the start.
9. Trust Your Photographer for the Best Event Photography Tip
Hiring a pro means giving them room to work. As a photographer, I plan framing, anticipate movement, and capture detail without interrupting the flow. Let your guests enjoy themselves and allow the story of your event to unfold naturally on camera. You’ll be surprised at how many great moments happen when people forget they’re being photographed.
10. Tell Guests Ahead of Time
If you want people to relax in front of the camera, it helps to let them know in advance. A simple message like, “There’ll be a professional photographer here today—smile when you spot them!” works wonders. This also helps with consent for public sharing later on, especially for events where kids may be present.
11. Add a Personal Touch to Your Gallery
After your event, consider ordering custom prints or stickers from your favourite moments. A thank-you postcard with a group photo or a branded sticker of your team is a unique way to say thanks. It’s especially popular with business owners looking to leave a lasting impression.
Want to turn your event images into stickers or branded giveaways? Check out our custom sticker service—designed with businesses and events in mind.
12. Choose the Right Photographer for Your Event
Not all photographers shoot every type of event. Some specialise in weddings, others in corporate work or sports. Make sure their style fits your tone—relaxed or formal, modern or traditional. Always check their portfolio, and if you’re in Shropshire, look for someone who knows the area well and understands local venues.
To learn more about capturing energy and emotion in live events, read our blog on How We Capture the Energy of Live Sports Events.
Final Thought: Photos Are the Legacy of Your Event
After the music ends and the guests go home, the photos remain. Whether you’re organising a birthday party in Market Drayton, a corporate evening in Shropshire, or a live music gig—getting the photography right matters. It’s the lasting proof of the effort you put in, the faces you want to remember, and the memories worth sharing again and again.
Ready to book your event photographer in Market Drayton or beyond? Get in touch and let’s make it unforgettable.