beyond the group shot: how to work with an incentive photographer to tell a much bigger story
event planners know how to design unforgettable experiences. they labor on the details knowing that it is there that luxury is defined for the attendees. the perfect room drop that ties a bow on an adventurous day. the day off itinerary options that have just the right balance of local culture and pampering. these all help to make a memorable experience, but how do we convert those to stories that motivate others, that inspire high performance, and that ultimately create a corporate culture of success?
it all begins with who you hire to tell your story. not all photographers are created equal, and those who specialize are typically your safest bet. can a wedding photographer shoot a corporate event? yes. can an adventure photographer shoot a headshot? probably. by hiring a photographer (or agency of photographers) that shoot corporate events, you ensure that your incentive trip continues the narrative that started long before the guests arrive. we likely already have the shot of the moment those winners were announced at a sales meeting. the joy of the team that surrounded them as they stood in disbelief. the moment their leadership growth was rewarded (or maybe they were voluntold?) by their first time speaking from the big stage. these are the moments that define a STORY, not just a moment. these are the stories that make the rewards trip so rewarding - it was earned.
instead of hoping the photographer is in the right place at the right time, a solid itinerary before the trip is the best starting point. often we are enrolled early in the programming to discuss how our images and video can help add value to the trip. by knowing when a toast is about to happen, when the eco is about to surprise everyone with a jump off the high dive, or when a surprise cake is about to show up for a birthday celebration all help us to be there ready for the action.
once we arrive, informing attendees that professional photos will be available allows them to put their phones down and focus on being present. often we’ll have on site selects delivered to a site for everyone to download and share. this helps drive fomo that motivates those looking in from the comfort of their own couch. a photo/video montage nicely ties a bow on to the trip, and allows others to see what they may have missed. it also shows the bonding and how the group galvanized looking at how far they have come from the beginning. scheduling time on site for ‘couples’ photos assures them that they’ll be captured in the glow of the trip (in the best light, with the perfect backdrop of course). personalized gifts like a printed book delivered after the event go a long way in helping to memorialize the trip down the road.