Event Photography 101 with Agata
Event Photography 101 with Agata
Becoming an event photographer is about being able to capture the essence of dynamic, unpredictable moments and turning them into lasting memories. Agata’s journey into this vibrant field offers a blueprint for aspiring photographers. Starting with little more than a passion for photography and a borrowed camera, she navigated her way through the challenges of her first gig, quickly learning the importance of preparation, adaptability, and the right equipment.
Her journey underscores that success in event photography comes from a combination of technical skill, the ability to connect with people, and the willingness to invest—both in gear and in oneself. In this interview, Agata shares invaluable advice for those looking to break into the industry, from building a portfolio with whatever resources you have to finding those crucial first clients.
Do you have a signature style or way that you try to capture photos that feels unique to you?
Agata: I’m hoping I do haha. I think it’s probably something quite hard to define at least for me. I definitely have a sense of visuals that I’m leaning towards which is clean, airy edits. And specifically for events photography I love and hopefully I’m known for capturing the real, candid moments and interactions. I just love taking photos of people and documenting the most raw and authentic environment and emotions they are in.
Can you tell us how you first got started in event photography?
Agata: Honestly, I kind of fell into it. I’ve been taking photos since I was about 13 because it’s something that always brought me a lot of joy. Anytime I had the chance to take pictures, I did. My first real event gig was at a friend’s mid-medical degree gala. People always saw me with a camera, so she asked if I could take photos for the event since she needed a photographer. I didn’t have great kit at the time—just an old Canon with a kit lens that my godmother gave me. So, I rented a Canon 5D Mark IV and four lenses, which ended up costing more than what I got paid for the job! But it didn’t matter—I was just thrilled someone trusted me with such an opportunity, and I wanted to give it everything I had. From there, things just started picking up. More people reached out, I slowly built my portfolio, and here I am today.
What are the essential skills and qualities you believe are necessary to succeed as an event photographer?
Agata: Besides the obvious photography skills—like knowing your camera and understanding lighting—it’s crucial to be open, friendly, and adaptable. With event photography, there’s only so much you can prepare for. Sure, you can check out the venue, think about the lighting, and get a sense of the event’s flow. But so much of it is about being able to roll with whatever comes up. You’ve got to be ready to adapt and make the best of any situation.
When it comes to equipment, what do you consider the most important tools in your kit?
Agata: For event photography, I’d definitely recommend a zoom lens like a 24-70mm or 24-105mm—something that gives you a lot of flexibility since you usually don’t have time to swap lenses. A good flash is also key; I like the Godox V1. As for cameras, I started with Canon and really like the Canon R6 or R5. If you’re on a tight budget, buying used kit is a great option—I highly recommend checking out MPB for that. And if you can’t afford to buy kit right away, don’t let it stop you! I rented kit for my first few clients, which helped me build my portfolio and save up to eventually invest in my own equipment. FatLlama is a great app for renting kit.
How do you prepare for an event shoot, and what steps do you take to ensure you capture the key moments effectively?
Agata: Great question! When I first got into photography, I didn’t realise how much prep work goes into a successful shoot. I used to think you just showed up, took photos, and edited them later. But preparation is super important. For events, I always check out the venue ahead of time—I’ll Google it to see what it looks like, get a sense of the lighting, and think about potential angles. I also ask for the event plan in advance so I know the key moments and whether anything unusual is happening. If the client has a shot list, I’ll definitely ask for that, especially if there are specific people or moments they want captured. If they don’t have a list, I’ll ask if there’s anything in particular they really need photos of. And of course, I prep my kit the night before—I make sure all the batteries are charged, memory cards are ready, and everything is packed. For music events, I’ll bring earbuds since I often shoot right near the speakers. And I always bring some water and snacks to keep me going.
For young professionals looking to break into event photography, what advice would you give them on building a portfolio and finding their first clients?
Agata: There are a few things you can do. I started with friends and family—just letting them know I was available and willing to take photos at events. You can also reach out to other photographers on Instagram or via email to see if they need any help. There are lots of Instagram accounts like Assisting Work that post opportunities. Another good idea is to email music managers, festival organisers—basically, reach out to as many people as you can and see what happens.
Event photography often involves capturing dynamic, unpredictable moments. How do you stay adaptable and ensure you get the best shots, even in challenging situations?
Agata: You’ve got to stay focused and keep an eye on what’s happening around you. I always try to stay close to the stage or the main area where things are happening. I’m always on the lookout for groups of people having fun, any excitement or noise—basically anything that signals something interesting is about to happen. It’s also easier if you have a schedule to work with. If you know the keynote speaker is going on at 7 PM, make sure you’re ready to go by 6:45.
