When planning an event—whether it’s a work milestone, family celebration, or community gathering—one of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the right photographer. It’s tempting to simply flick through Instagram or a website and book based on aesthetics alone. And while style is important, a portfolio only tells part of the story.
So, what really matters when choosing an event photographer?
1. Do They Blend In Easily?
The best event photographers don’t just take beautiful images—they know how to move through a room without disrupting it. Whether it’s a birthday picnic or an EOFY function, you want someone who can capture real moments with minimal intrusion.
A celebrant I worked with said “Kate moved like a ninja on the day, totally unobtrusive as she darted from place to place managing to capture all the emotions and special moments. If she was bothered by the freezing cold and the pouring rain, none of it showed; she was warm and friendly throughout and was easy and fun to work with.”
2. Are They Aligned With Your Values?
Especially if you’re planning a gathering with personal or cultural significance, it’s important to work with someone who respects your space and understands inclusivity. Do they reflect a diverse range of people in their work? Do they highlight moments of connection over posed perfection?
I was thrilled when a local mum wrote, “Kate is welcoming, friendly, inclusive and creates a safe space straight away which is ideal for photos.” I have an accessibility and inclusion statement which outlines my values and can be viewed here and a child empowerment and wellbeing statement which you can read here.
3. How Do They Communicate?
Planning events can be chaotic. Your photographer should make things easier, not harder. Clear communication, prompt replies, and a low-fuss booking process are worth their weight in gold.
A past client wrote, “I made a last minute decision and Kate made it work, talked me through everything and was always so quick to answer my questions – and generous! Such a wonderful experience and I highly recommend it, the photos are just beautiful.”
4. Do They Understand the Flow of an Event?
An experienced event photographer knows where to be and when. They anticipate speeches, hugs, spontaneous dance moves, and small but powerful moments. It’s not just about documenting what happened—it’s about telling the story in an authentic way.
One of my recent clients, who had hired me to photograph her cousin’s 40th wedding anniversary celebration wrote, “Kate, was amazing and understood the brief. She went above and beyond to capture the moments in time. Went will cherish these photos and I can’t thank Kate enough. Her photographs are ‘real’.”
5. How Do People Feel in Their Presence?
This is especially important if guests might feel camera-shy. A warm, approachable energy goes a long way. People relax, kids stay themselves, and what you get are natural, joy-filled images that reflect the event as it felt.
A mum I recently photographed wrote this of her experience with me, “We had such a lovely experience working with Kate for our son’s first birthday shoot. She really took the time to get to know us and what we care about, which made the photos feel so true to who we are. She was warm, easy to be around, and so talented. We absolutely love the photos and haven’t stopped sharing them with family.”
Looking for a Melbourne-based event photographer who quietly captures your event’s essence while making guests feel at ease? I’d love to help.
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