Preparing for a campaign photoshoot
By Peter Turnbull
I have been a candidate, a campaign manager and a campaign worker; if there is one thing I have learnt from this it’s campaigns can be brutal.
There so many things to organise and usually with a limited budget and support. The one thing many candidates overlook or leave to the last minute is images, whether that’s a professional headshot, family photos or images of you in the electorate.
What you need to recognise is your campaign imagery will significantly impact your public image and help you connect with voters on a personal level.
Most people are time poor. They will look at an image on a brochure or social media, read the headline and move on. If you want to capture their attention you need to have engaging, authentic and well composed images.
Here’s a few simple things you can do to achieve that:
Lighting matters
The right lighting can make or break your photos. Golden hour is that period around sunrise and sunset and is perfectly suited for outdoor shoots.
During these times, the soft, warm light creates a flattering glow and adds a touch of magic to your pictures.
Use the middle of the day for photos with local businesses or street walks when you can find shade and stay out of the harsh sunlight.
Location, location, location
Usually the chant of the local real estate agent, it is just as important when building a portfolio of images for your campaign.
Showcasing your connection to the community is key. Choose locations that are meaningful to your electorate and tell a story about your commitment to the area.
Iconic landmarks, parks, local businesses, or even your own neighbourhood provide context to your photos. This not only shows your potential constituents that you are familiar with the area but can also serve to highlight areas you want to improve if you are elected – a local round-a-bout or other road works, upgrading a local skate park, insert your pet issue here.
Rather than just talking about the issue, show people what you are talking about.
Include Supporters & Constituents
Your portfolio isn’t all about you; it’s also about your community.
Invite supporters, constituents, or local figures to join you in some photos. This not only humanises you but also strengthens your connection with the people you aim to represent.
Dress for the job you want
Your campaign is essentially a very public job interview but you don’t get to personally stand in front of every voter. Your attire should reflect your personal style and resonate with your audience.
Opt for clothing that suits the environment you are in; don’t rock up for a casual day at the beach in a suit and tie, or to a business meet and greet in board shorts and t-shirt.
Be aware of your surroundings and the message you are trying to convey.
Hire a Professional Photographer
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that this is on the list from a professional photographer; but there are numerous reasons why this should be part of your budget.
Smartphones will produce decent photos, but they won’t give you good advice and are really only any good for social media due to their low resolution.
A professional photographer will, on the other hand, capture high-quality images that will make a lasting impact. They will also be able to help with a shot list, timing, outfits, props, posing and just about everything else you need to look authentic and at your best.
Hiring the right photographer, who understands the importance of genuine imagery and is willing to spend the time to understand you and your goals, will actually save you time and money in the long run.
But please, don’t ask them to ‘photoshop’ your images. It is not ethical or authentic and creates unrealistic expectations. Nothing screams fake more than a candidate who looks nothing like their picture.
The softer light during golden hour makes it the best time for capturing portraits.
📷: Peter Turnbull
Including identifiable locations in your photoshoot shows you know and understand the local area and issues.
📷: Peter Turnbull
A professional photographer will not only capture high-quality images, they can also help with timing, outfits, props and posing to help you look your best.
📷: Peter Turnbull
Remember, your photo shoot is a crucial part of your campaign, allowing you to connect with voters on a personal level. By following these tips and staying true to yourself, you'll create compelling images that resonate with your local audience and help you stand out as a genuine, committed candidate.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Peter Turnbull runs Turnbull Photography and Content and has been shooting for as long as he can remember.
Photography was a constant partner to his work as a journalist and communications specialist, helping Peter tell stories both in words and pictures.
Over the past decade, he has produced still images and videos for highly successful multi-media campaigns including for television, print and online media.
Peter loves to photograph anything that moves, and lots of things that don’t. He says the most exciting thing about his job is capturing images that make a difference to people and their businesses, large or small.
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