[Photo Tips] Shooting an EPK: A Session with Roots in Blue Stone
- Ryan Downey Jr.
- Mar 4
- 2 min read
Most people are not a fan of picture day. But in the entertainment business, that picture from 10 years ago, although a good photo, is not going to do your brand justice. Companies update logos, professionals update headshots, services update product images; nostalgia is fun, but so is keeping an active presence for people to find you. And the work involved does not need to be a stale process, as stale work will lead to boring results.
Shooting an EPK
If you find yourself repeating the same steps and getting similar results each time, here are three tips I use while shooting an EPK with northeast Pennsylvania-based band, Roots in Blue Stone:
Don't Reinvent the Wheel
I know this is mentioned endlessly, but it's true. Unless your shoot has a large budget and amount of time, there is no need to go overboard. Use what's around you and familiar! Some of the best shoots use what's already existing rather than making the scene look over-produced.
No special effects, no AI, just capturing moments with artists and how you would see them during a typical day. The amazing team at the Sherman Theater graciously donated a couple hours of time for us to complete the shoot, but still did not feel the need for a huge production. Spare chairs, a table, and a window with natural sunlight was all we needed for this frame.
Study the Music
This is a special step I like which can help inspire scenes and framing for your shots. Album art, posters, even Pinterest have been great sources for ideas and inspiration for shoots, but should not be the end means for your final image. Studying the music and products of the artist is where you can bring the touches to make your images stand out from each other.
Copying ideas, while they might be technically correct, won't do much to match the current project you're facing. I think of it as finding a puzzle piece that has the same shape to fit another set, but the imagery not making sense once the piece is in place.
Keep It Simple.
But seriously, keep it simple. Not just because I tend to lean towards minimalist shoots, but the most grand of plans can crumble. In IT I learned it's best to have the least amount of points of failure as possible. I find it the most beneficial for project efficiency to arrive to the shoot with the basic shots in mind first, then getting creative as the shoot goes on if time allows. I can think of too many times when I would think of wild ideas days before a shoot only to arrive to the location to find it's not what was pictured, thus crushing ideas or making them very tough to accomplish.
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