Digging Up is a fortnightly segment that shares advice for building your own circus practise- from a struggling artist just trying to ‘Dig Up’.

So here is a very well thought out guide on how to carry out a photoshoot….

But in all seriousness taking quality photos is an important part of marketing any project. It can seem like a daunting task but here are a few easy steps to take to ensure that you walk away from a shoot with usable photos (without costing an arm and a leg).

1. Scout an interesting location

Hiring a studio is expensive and finding one with the space to do circus tricks is very difficult. Instead I would recommend  finding an unusual but relevant location to take your pictures. For our ‘Stand Here’ shoot we used the Testing Grounds in Melbourne, which is also the place the project would take place. Often if you have already sourced a venue they will be happy to negotiate a time for you to use the venue for promo pics. Or if the venue doesn’t have the vibe you are looking for choosing a location that fits the theme of your show. For example check out this shoot by Na Djinang Circus– shooting promo for their show ‘Social Staples’ in a cool retro kitchen. 

2. Find a good photographer

You can find a lot of great photographers in Facebook groups like the Melbourne creative network (they have a Facebook group in each state). Groups like this area  great way to find talented photographers who are also at the start of their careers and are willing to work together on a shoot TFP (Time for prints) or at reduced/ student rates. Make sure that if you are negotiating a TFP shoot that it is clear how to credit everyone involved and explain exactly how the photos will be used. Once you’ve found a photographer that you work well with I try and give them priority for any paid shoots that come up. You shouldn’t expect someone to work with you for free every time, just because they did once.

3. The details matter

The difference between an average promo photo and a great one is in the details. This includes things like having cohesive clothing/ costumes, makeup and hair. Check what is in the background of images and clear clutter if needed. Which direction is everyone in the photo looking and what expression do they have? To help with all these little parts I find it really useful to have a mood board and shot list. This is particularly relevant if you are working with a photographer who doesn’t know a lot about circus. having a shot list with pictures of the poses you want gives the photographer a clear idea of what to shoot.

So here is the image we ended using as our ‘Hero Image’ for the Stand Here shoot. We’d love to know what you think?

Captured by EmmelineD Photography