The Complete Event Photography Guide for Beginners

[@MikMilman]

Thanks for watching! This is by far my biggest video to date. So much work went into preparing this information; I really hope you get a lot out of it. Be sure to check out the entire guide on mikmilman.com

[@mikmilman7685]

1:40 What is event photography 3:05 Who event photography is for 4:10 Getting started and building a portfolio 6:50 Assisting and second shooting 11:00 Working for other photographers and should you work for free? 15:00 Gear and the first lenses you should buy 20:00 Setting your rates 22:10 Booking your first job 24:18 Why you should always show up early to a job 25:28 What you should focus on at an event 28:10 Establishing shots 28:50 How to shoot detail shots 30:30 How to shoot close candids 32:00 Posing people 34:56 Delivering images, culling images, editing images, my rating system 39:30 Maintaining client relationships 40:40 Conclusion

[@gordonscott1344]

Mik, I've literally stumbled across your videos. Normally, I'm not a Nth American video kinda guy. BUT, i love your candid and honest style. I've been shooting families and family sports for the last year and have been asked to shoot an event. Honestly, I'm a little stressed, but your vids have put more at ease. Keep up the good work! G

[@MikMilman]

Thank you! I am grateful. Good luck with your event and let me know how it goes. What's wrong with videos coming out of North America?

[@gordonscott1344]

@@MikMilman Thanks for the good luck message! I think many Nth American vids can feel a little over-acted (FroKnowsPhoto) and sometimes fake or sponsored offer a certain view point. I'm not saying videos from other areas don't or can't. Perhaps there are just more Nth American videos, hence more that I don't love (not necessarily dislike). Your style is open and inviting. Your're offering your opinion, not forcing me to accept it. I love it!

[@gordonscott1344]

@@MikMilman the event went well, I thought. I got some good images in challenging conditions. I'd love to hear what you think... facebook.com/120254499376621/posts/193863828682354/

[@jonathanlogan6953]

I'd like to add something about rating that I learned working for a university. We use the star system as follows: most events only receive 1-3 star ratings. 1=extra shots that don't need to be delivered, but should not be deleted, 2=the main deliverable images, 3=the best couple images of the day. 4 and 5 are reserved for portfolio/marketing level images, or the very best images of the year, and are used sparingly. I've adopted this system for my personal photojournalism and it has served me well.

[@MikMilman]

That sounds like a great way to do it if you want to use a single rating method (no colors or flags) or if you want to just free those up for something else.

[@thcrtn]

"over my head" question: Atlre you saying you only deliver the 3s and keep the 4-5 for personal use/ransom ... Or You do infact offer the 3-5 images to paying clients???

[@kevinacla8291]

i have an upcoming event photo-shoot this Dec. 11, 2023, i do photography by side line, and this video helps me to gather my tools needed that i have, I'm a portrait photographer and this is my first event photo-shoot, pray for me to succeed on this photo-shoot.. peace ☮

[@MikMilman]

Good luck with your event!

[@thebphet3333]

How did it go ?

[@ayobamimac]

I love the way this is presented. No intent to sell or deceive, pitch-perfect and well balanced. very well done

[@MikMilman]

Thank you so much for your feedback. Comments like this makes it all worth the effort.

[@ayobamimac]

Mik Milman I’ve been shooting for quite a while and a lot of people tend to tap into the fears of others that are trying to get into the market and the first thing they do is try to empty their pockets. This will save a lot of people a lot of time and money especially the working for free part. Can’t congratulate you enough.

[@MikMilman]

@@ayobamimac It's honestly quite disgusting. What's worse is when they are not even working professionals themselves.

[@ayobamimac]

Mik Milman exactly, and they start telling people that great things will happen instantaneously. It’s tough, it’s sometimes discouraging, but when done well and with proper guidance it’s definitely worth it.

[@MikMilman]

Yeah theres a lot of snake oil. I built my business on word of mouth but when it came time to learn about SEO, I found that although a lot of the advice on youtube was sound, much of it was served with a tremendous dose of hyperbole. "This one thing made my article rank #1 in a day" ...that sort of thing.

[@harryj8145]

The amount of knowledge and tips shared in this video is unreal!! Really appreciated and best of luck for future videos... I can see how much work you put in making this a super useful video. Not many people give you these tips for free. I have my first event shooting tomorrow and I was freaking out until I saw this... gave me a boost after watching your video. Thank you so very much.

[@MikMilman]

It means a lot to me, knowing this has been helpful even to a small amount of people. Yes, it did take a lot of work! But I think it was worth it. I would recommend checking out my other event photography tips as well. Hopefully you'll find those useful too. LMK how the event goes and if you have any questions I could help you with.

[@MikMilman]

Hey Harry, Just checking in. How are your events coming along?

[@jeromebrechon3497]

As a long term photographer, i'd just notice that this guy just pointed out what I've been struggling for years! Honestly, cheers mate ! :*

[@MikMilman]

What exactly was your struggle?

[@chandanac891]

I love this so much. Ive been a professional photographer for 10 years now, HAVE A CONTRACT, Even if its your 1st shoot or free shoot. Set expectations, it protects you and the client, you also come across as a professional. All communication should be in writing, whatsApp, message, email. Have an invoice with pricing and terms & conditions. 1. Non refundable deposit, balance payment. 2. Duration for deliverables & full payment before giving them. 3. Request food for long shoots, travel expenses and stay for other city or state. 4. Mention that images will be used on Social media and website as its your portfolio. Invoice can be made on free apps on your phone as helps you with keeping a contact list of former clients. Wish you the best ❤

[@MikMilman]

Appreciate you adding your thoughts!

[@MarcieHill]

Thanks for this info.

[@CindyLeah]

I started this video thinking I wouldn't finish it and I did no problem. I've been shooting for 6 years but it's still cool to stay informed. Thank you

[@MikMilman]

Thanks for watching. I also like hearing other pros' perspectives. I'll keep the content coming!

[@Creative7inc]

Unreal video. So full of content and insightful information. I hope that all the individuals that are striving to get into event photography stumble upon this!

[@MikMilman]

Thank you! I think the video is starting to pick up steam.

[@jennanadigoo785]

I've rewatched a few times.

[@joseuribe1552]

As an experienced photographer I think you hit on important tips for someone looking to get into this type of work. Thanks

[@MikMilman]

Thanks, Jose!

[@almarosemiddleton139]

Great video loaded with lots of information. Thank you! I am also very punctual. Even better, I tend to arrive a 15-20 minutes early to get detail shots before the guests arrive. My clients are so grateful and shows them that I care. It's amazing how they use the pre-party shots when sharing the photos. I just photographed Harry & Meghan, Oprah, and Adam Levine at fabulous event. I used some of your tips from prior videos. Yay!

[@hankthomas3303]

Thanks for taking the time to assemble all these tips, musta taken forever to decide what needed to go into this.

[@MikMilman]

It was definitely my most intensive video. I appreciate your appreciation! It makes it worth it. I realized event photography is not covered much on KZbin and wanted to do my best to help those in need of a resource.

[@alejandroguerrero140]

Man, you are amazing. Thanks for this masterclass! It gives me like 100x more confidence!

[@AuslandLiving]

Hi Mik, great video! I know it's been 4 years since it was uploaded, but it's still very helpful to us new photographers that are only starting out. Well done and keep up the great work. Cheers, Vlad.

[@sdmackpictures]

I’ve been an event photographer since I was 10. I find your videos and advice very honest and helpful. I started watching to remind myself of the basics. I’m advanced and experienced but I sometimes forget things that make a difference. Thanks for this channel. Keep up the great work!

[@copdoc]

Hi Mik. Thank you for all of the detailed information. You present it in a clear and concise outline and I think that is appreciated by all. In the past 9 months, I have become a photographer by chance, starting with and learning residential real estate photography, floor plans, and 360 virtual tours, then commercial real estate, and last night at a networking event, I was asked about event photography. This is how I found your videos so that I can learn what I need to get started. So thank you for all of your information.

[@MikMilman]

Thank you for all your feedback. I really want to help people on their journey so It means a lot to know the content I make is appreciated. I wish you luck on your first events!

[@domingogomez9802]

Tank youbso much for sharing knowledge. I really appreciate your tips and advice. I hope I can see more videos like this in the future in your channel

[@MikMilman]

Working on it! It just takes me a lot of time to prepare in depth information like this. New videos are coming regularly starting in 2020. In the meanwhile don't forget to check out my event photography playlist! And please share!

[@gmz1997]

I'm a simple parent sports photographer but over the years I've gotten very good at it lol Ive got good gear as well. Anyway, I'm doing a adult birthday party at a venue for a dear family friend who couldn't afford the $2k photographer for the event. I have done a few small events for family members in the past but nothing serious. This video was excellent in keying me in on what I need to do other than follow the ball lol thx!

[@bigdanii4255]

This is great! I’m so glad I found this. You have a genuine energy and are very easy to listen to. So informative

[@MikMilman]

Appreciate it! Hearing this is very encouraging. I'll keep the content coming.

[@thisischaniece]

Very useful! It's so hard to find no-nonsense videos that get to the point like this.

[@MikMilman]

You're right. And honestly most of what people are putting out there is regurgitated inforomation. I'll keep these coming

[@thisischaniece]

​@@MikMilman Great! It's a shame the venue I was at had terrible lighting haha, was impossible to take any good photos, but tried to use the info here anyway haha.

[@MikMilman]

@@thisischaniece Did you have an external flash?

[@thisischaniece]

@@MikMilman Nah no external flash. I usually do day time events only, I haven't even started looking at lighting even though I have a whole course on it... This was for an event my team did and I was able to squeeze out a couple of good pictures, but yea learning to properly use a flash I guess is inevitable. We are doing more and more events at dark venues.

[@hastipiltan7990]

Mik, as a beginner i was really stressed and looking for a useful guide through event photography, and i found you!! Your videos are really useful, practical and on point, which helped me a lot to get some ideas for my direction, and above everything I love the honesty that you're putting in these videos which take huge amount of mental pressure and stress off people's like me shoulder! Keep it up, wish you the best! And hope one day i get to the position where i be able to guide people in this career like you do.

[@nese005]

Very good video with great value still 5 years later. thank you !

[@leonm4740]

The first thing coming up to my mind after watching the whole video is: you are such a nice person. Wonderful.

[@MikMilman]

Thank you. I had to do it on my own so I'm doing my best so that people won't have to.

[@katparrott7128]

Dude love your content, super approachable and not corny - thanks for the help!

[@MikMilman]

I'm really glad you enjoyed it!

[@imtiazindia]

Mik, My sincere gratitude for such a wonderful insight into the hard work of being an event photographer. You took us on a full round trip of an event. Thanks much for that patient presentation. I completely agree with you on the lens choice. I use either a 24-70 or 15-30 on one camera and other is almost always 70-200. I shoot with two kits. Cant afford an assistant and dont know how i can communicate my thought process to them. Keep them coming. Hope you will many more such presentations and wish you many shoots and great ones. Cheers.

[@MikMilman]

Thanks so much. I would like to provide more content like this, but of course it takes a lot of work. It will come though. Let me know if theres anything I missed that you would like to see in part two!

[@billreeves5546]

Just what I needed. Solid, straightforward advice. I'm a real estate photographer though I've done a few weddings. Have a big event coming up and wanted to remove some of the guesswork. Thank you.

[@janehowie2273]

I have watched a few of your videos now ! They are easy to follow, to the point and full of wonderful, helpful information without unnecessary stuff. Thanks for your generous sharing. I am getting some event work through word-of-mouth which is very exciting and will carry your tips with me. Thank you again.

[@MikMilman]

Thanks, Jane! Hopefully you've already discovered my event photography playlist. I have a lot of planned event photography content coming soon so be sure to check back in.

[@gentlegnt]

Exceedingly helpful. Thank you so very much for sharing thus.

[@allatheaussie]

Thank you so much for this. I've shot small conferences for my professional organisations before, but I've got my first paid event tonight that isn't related to my day job. This is a great explanation and outline

[@mabra87]

Such an insightful video! I’ve got a gin launch this Friday, live band, bbq, group photos! So excited

[@MikMilman]

Glad you liked it

[@WhirlOmar]

I’ve seen three of your videos back to back just now and I’m so glad I found this channel.

[@MikMilman]

Same here! This week I was slow to put out content, but lots more coming soon.

[@MikMilman]

Try to make it to my premiere tomorrow!

[@mariamsaraj7172]

Hey mik, thank you for such a thoughtful and thorough video. I will continue to reference this and as an inspiring photographer I really appreciate your videos and feel like I’m learning & honing my craft with you as a mentor/ guide. Long time subscriber, keep it up! Thank you for sharing your knowledge & passion.

[@jboone3745]

You are so correct, Event photography is draining, and I enjoyed your content. My mom taught me photography from scratch as she converted our bathroom into a darkroom back in the 80's. Everything you mentioned I watched her go through. Thanks for the video and tips.

[@Spacesharkie]

I really appreciate your videos and explanations, it’s helping me so much in preparing for my first semi-professional outdoor event shoot! Super nervous but excited for it.

[@davemorse8511]

Thanks Mik, very informative, I’m shooting a charity event couple weeks time, so your tips will come in handy, thanks again. Cheers Dave.

[@ArthurStraw]

Thanks Mik. I watched the whole thing and I subscribed. I am going to be shooting our pool league banquet and I was looking to step it up a notch. I am a hobby landscape photographer at best? Thank you for the time you took to make this, I found it very informative and relatable. You are very pleasant, and easy to listen to on camera.

[@shadyninja1]

I'm enjoying this video. You are spot on. I'm getting out of my cave and I'll start concentration on getting my work to another level

[@DavidVelezPhotography]

Thanks, Mik! I'm still working around your content. It's relevant today as it was back in 2019!

[@johnthomasdoyle1964]

Hi Mik, thanks for sharing all this information, much appreciated. Very well presented and balanced.

[@HHTV60]

good tips. i just booked an event inCanada at only CAD$50 an hour (4 hours total a day -- two days); and i'm really happy about this opportunity to add images to my portfolio. Your tips are highly appreciated. I'm coming in 'hot' with a 28 mm f/2.8, 50 mm f/1.8 and a 105 mm f/2.8. No zooms this time -- it's an indoor venue. Thx-

[@vondafranks-wallace849]

Thank you so much for this video. It was extremely helpful and worth watching til the very end. I appreciate you.

[@sutv6754]

I surely watched the whole thing. I have slowly but surely turning pro and do get jobs but this excellent reinforcement. I learned a lot. Thanks for sharing all your experience. Very good.

[@davel831]

Thank you Mik great advice and wise words.

[@pharaoh288]

Thanks for the CLASS, it helps a lot

[@JimSCoyle]

Really , REALLY useful. Thank you! Cheers Jim

[@MikMilman]

Thanks Jim!

[@MikMilman]

Are you an event photographer or are you pursuing event photography?

[@JimSCoyle]

Mik Milman hi. I'm in Scotland and really enjoy event photography and offer to help out charities etc quite often but thinking of taking it more seriously

[@MikMilman]

You should give it a go. Let me know if there's anyway I can help you along on your journey.

[@JimSCoyle]

@@MikMilman Thank you so much, I will do.

[@laurastokes4777]

For weddings I always met in person twice...initial and site visit where flow of the day was established

[@stormysnyder4693]

I guess I will be parroting the other comments...but I think you are doing a great service to those of us just getting started. You're videos are full of on-point, valuable, time-saving information. I will definitely be joining. The $x per month is well worth your expertise. Please continue mentoring and teaching...you are great at it. Many thanks!

[@MikMilman]

Thank you so much. I really appreciate your support on Patreon! Please let me know if there's anything I can help you with.

[@RatsPicklesandMusic]

15:39 unfortunately not able to afford a 24-70 probably for a while. BUT I am starting off with other lenses I got over the years from hobby photography: 24, 35, 50, 90 Macro, and 70-200!! I think I can make those work!! What I think I want to get next instead is a second body to shoot on so I can utilize two lenses at once!

[@nonono5252]

Great video Mik, thanks for your insight on the journey you took. Looking forward to one day dropping the day job to be a photographer

[@Texans23]

Just wanted to say thanks! Great video with tons of useful info. Appreciate the work!

[@MikMilman]

Glad it was helpful! I appreciate the comment.

[@andreaaerdna100]

Thank you so much for this video, it helped me a lot!

[@MikMilman]

That's great! What sort of an event did you shoot?

[@thcrtn]

Perfect video, ive done a few event types, even gotten paid for some, ive had some worries and some sucsessful moments, i chuckled when your b reel and examples are all photos ive taken at my events because the just FEEL like the proper photos. I came here looking for pricing (the logic of it) and found a deeper meaning that googling a scale of x-y!!! I only use my 50m and i see theres more to capture than the cinematics watching your vid, i tend to give 50-100 images... At 10% sellable shots out of all the ones taken per event. Im not sure how many a client can or should receive... Its foggy if they are paying for time or photos. But i fear refining a whole epic down to 20 photos is unfair to the story but having more than 100 and they should just have video 🤷. (Im not speaking of individual shots of people in attendance if they are all special, juat general pix,) if anyone has any tips or suggestions feel free. Trolls included😂 i don't bring a flash, even in the darkest of red light clubs im able to get some stylish shots... My 18-55mm just feels FLAT but i may start to bring it along to play.

[@MaverickChristian]

15:36 to 15:49 - It's short telephoto to medium telephoto. "Super telephoto" is what you'd call 300mm or longer. Also, to create "chapters" for your video, be sure to include 0:00 - [Title here] in the description; it won't be enough to include those other timestamps. All that said, nice video! I took some notes for my own event photography. 😁

[@paulmatasaru9874]

bro...you just naild it ! thanks a lot !

[@MikMilman]

Thank you! I'm filming another big guide today.

[@paulmatasaru9874]

I'm sure it's already a goal ! However I gotta say I didn't know you and I'm surprisingly glad to "meet" you. I haven't seen your work yet but I'll spend some time on it tomorrow !

[@travisryan4959]

You really deserve more followers , keep up the good job !!

[@MikMilman]

Thank you. I really appreciate it. Hopefully in time.

[@joeredski]

This has been really helpful and informative, I will use this as a guide for starting my career. Thank you Mik.

[@MrWeberx6]

Thanks for this video, Mik. It has really useful informations and opinions. 🙏🙂

[@MikMilman]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@rusdavid6322]

Thanks fot the tips Mik! Its my first event photog job today and this vid just gave me more confidence. Looking forward to more of your guides. Thanks!

[@MikMilman]

Genuinely glad to hear that. Theres a text version of the guide if you want to review anything: mikmilman.com/guide-on-becoming-an-event-photographer Let me know how it goes and I recommend you check out my other event photography videos as well. A lot of them have been buried by the KZbin algorithm, but I have a playlist: kzbin.info/aero/PL7juywq2ZoCzzIutxWlDNTtz2bylOM3o9

[@amelens3589]

I learned a lot from you Mik. Thank you for sharing all of these. I'm looking forward for more. 💙

[@MikMilman]

Happy to hear that!

[@jamesburt2542]

Thanks so much Mik, this guide has been really informative and useful. Cheers!

[@MikMilman]

Glad to hear it! But I'm guessing you're not shooting many events right now.

[@jamesburt2542]

@@MikMilman That's right, no events... I'm actually a film editor and my work has pretty much disappeared, so I'm using this time to learn and expand my other passions and skills. Helps keep spirits up. Though I can technically work remotely (if there's any content to actually work on) I think for freelance photographers this is going to be especially difficult, I hope your livelihood isn't going to suffer too greatly, Mik, though we'll all be taking a hit.

[@MikMilman]

​@@jamesburt2542 My work has been completely wiped out. I photograph large groups of people for a living. I thought that I could lean on my teaching work, but they are now predicting things not returning to normal for our art centers for 12-18 months. This is bad for people like me. Real bad. I don't even think I'm eligible for unemployment. You know, even my KZbin has taken a hit! Views are way down since no one is really booking work and looking for resources on event photography.

[@irynatolmachova9993]

Thank you! Very helpful

[@tanishafreynet9437]

I never thought that I would do event photography. I like my macro nature. Then a acquaintance saw my photos and asked me to do her family photos. One thing led to another and she mentioned me to her friend and I am booked for an event this weekend. Trying to learn all I can. Thank you for this video. Very informative and educational.

[@MikMilman]

Good luck on your gig! I'm glad this helps. I have a few other videos on events I recommend. Also, if you have a specific question they don't answer, feel free to ask!

[@tanishafreynet9437]

@@MikMilman thank you so much!

[@MikMilman]

Also, I'm trying to take a break from KZbin today but I'll have an event photography playlist soon.

[@MikMilman]

Hope it went well!

[@tanishafreynet9437]

@@MikMilman suprised you remembered. Yes, it went well. Was able to buy myself a EF-S 55-250mm and a tripod with what I got.

[@JohnPatota]

Awesome! I’ve consider myself a sports photographer, but I’ve learned things that I can apply to my work. Thanks!

[@MikMilman]

Happy to hear that!

[@newyorkjoseph101]

Your videos are great, really helpful and heartfelt. Thanks mate. And the other video about the diet advice...yes absolutely agree. Fasting is how I shoot.

[@MikMilman]

I'm thinking that a video on how fasting influences your performance as a photographer could be interesting as well.

[@newyorkjoseph101]

@@MikMilman I started longer fasts in Japan coffee tasting and photographing coffee and found I was able to keep the intensity and the energy going without dropping off. Kept at it and it is easy and convenient. Besides all that love your videos mate. A lot of care no junk.

[@AdvHussnainKhan]

I’m from 🇵🇰 Pakistan .. your clip so useful for me nice and plz keep it up .. 🤗

[@MikMilman]

Very glad to hear that!

[@kushyah7832]

Love you dude!

[@MikMilman]

Heh. Thanks. If you liked this video, I have a resource page on my website you might find helpful: mikmilman.com/los-angeles-event-photographers

[@kushyah7832]

@@MikMilman defs will check it out!

[@peterkaltoft8032]

Thanks for this, definitely will be of great help for me.

[@MikMilman]

I'm glad it will help. I'm publishing a follow up video today. Similar Info, but condensed into 17 tips.

[@peterkaltoft8032]

@@MikMilman looking forward to it:)

[@MikMilman]

Just published

[@kaizenelitebasketball]

thanks for the insights. will treasure them forever

[@MikMilman]

I really hope I can continue to make content that delivers for you!

[@kennethclinton9052]

Thank you for this excellent educational video. I appreciated the format of covering the topics in an outline format. Each topic is a detailed training video that would require several hours each. I started my business by taking my camera to business events around the country to feed my passion for about 8 years. This gave me experience and confidence that helped greatly when someone offered to pay me.

[@MikMilman]

Thanks, Kenneth! I put a lot of work into this so I'm glad you enjoyed it. I have plans for a part two as well as more thorough instructional videos on each topic. Let me know if theres anything you're eager to see me cover!

[@kennethclinton9052]

Mik, There are many on-line resources for many of the topics you outline. B&H has 4 or 5 1+ hour videos on flash photography as an example. There not much on the process of sharing images with clients. I have used a variety of methods from flash drives to Google drive. One client actually lost the flash drive that I provided. So, your thoughts on this topic is what I would appreciate.

[@MikMilman]

@@kennethclinton9052 I use Smugmug. There are many paid levels, but all archive your images for you without a limit. Downloads are easy for your client: they can download individual images or the entire gallery. Additionally you can sell prints and merch and whatnot. All the pro features you would expect are there.

[@MikMilman]

Did you take a look at smugmug?

[@kennethclinton9052]

@@MikMilman Mik, I have not but I have it on my to do list. Another fellow event photographer also suggested Smugmug.

[@anushazaryan5212]

Thank you a lot! This was very informative!

[@Northerncigars]

Great honest video! Thank you for posting this. I’m just starting out. I wish I could shadow you...lol. Anyway, thanks so much!

[@MikMilman]

Guessing you're not in la?

[@Northerncigars]

Hey you replied!!!! Wow!! No, unfortunately I’m near Toronto Canada. You seem like a really down to earth, honest individual, and I’m sure your clients love that. Anyways, I’ve subscribed, and now I’m going to go through all of your uploads....lol. Thanks again!

[@MikMilman]

@@Northerncigars I do my best to respond to everyone. I made this channel to help people so it's important to me. Thanks for watching! Looking forward to your comments.

[@stevenhoelderich9490]

I've been, shooting film since 1976, & I'm still shooting film , plus I did my Sister's wedding , my Niece's & My Nephews Christings B-days & Holidays & more.

[@DavidVelezPhotography]

Thanks!

[@MikMilman]

You bet! Thank you again!

[@lindaallen594]

Hi Mik, this is one of the best and in-depth videos on Event Photography! I will be watching this video multiple times and taking notes. Event Photography (non-Wedding) is my favorite genre. I work a full-time job but would love to do this type of photography on the weekends. Thanks again for a wonderful video! Keep up the good work!

[@MikMilman]

Thanks Linda. Be sure to check out the written version on my site. I hope the video helps you on your journey!

[@dennisclark8766]

Great video, good info.. Thanks for sharing.

[@MikMilman]

Thanks for watching! Did you make it all the way through?

[@dennisclark8766]

@@MikMilman Yes I did. I very seldom watch them to the end because there are so many bad ones posted.

[@danielare4218]

Thank you Mik🥂

[@LhundupTP]

It’s really nice of you to share these kind of knowledge and I am doing small events and weds in our community for about 4 years, I live in NYC and wanna try bigger events. Can you recommend some photographers who I can assist to gain some experience, thanks 🙏🏻

[@MikMilman]

I talk about finding photographers to shoot for at 6:50 in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqOTgpmjpZWjr5Y and I go more in depth in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/iXjbkpSBp6uCrJY Unfortunately, I don't persnally know anyone in New York.

[@NextScamdemic]

Went by quick. Great engaging content. Thanks 👍👍👍

[@MikMilman]

Thank you

[@Z-Hock]

You had me at Mitzvah ❤

[@douglasbarnes456]

Great video, Mik! I’ve been shooting events for a long time as well and it’s always good to get other photogs take on everyday situations. Thanks so much!

[@MikMilman]

Thanks for commenting! I am really grateful that photographers of all levels have appreciated me putting this out there. I think there is a hunger for real knowledge not just clickable content about gear. Unfortunately it is just harder to find. As an experienced photographer, any thoughts on what I should include in a part two?

[@douglasbarnes456]

Mik Milman Thanks for your reply, Mik, and Happy Holidays! Yes I believe we can all learn from each other no matter what experience level. Makes it fun, too! I especially like your low key approach! Regarding your part two, perhaps some other non-obvious tidbits for corporate shows like; catching a podium speaker right before they start speaking (to get good smiles, etc), getting the minute-by-minute schedule from your on-site contact to anticipate key moments, knowing how many is too many when it comes to shooting a podium speech in a small room (don’t be disruptive or distracting), using two bodies/lenses in BIG rooms, how to carry around heavy gear on long convention days without killing your back... just for starters. Thanks again! ~Douglas nowpicturethis.com

[@MikMilman]

Thanks, Douglas! I Was considering touching on each type of an event in the next guide, then following up with a specific video for each. I love what you mentioned. Small tips like that would likely be helpful for a lot of people. Checking out your work as soon as I get back from walking my dog. Happy holidays!

[@robertmccutchan5450]

I just came across your video.....thanks for putting it out there! I don't disagree with the first lens you suggest, and I would highly recommend that lens also, but I recently bought a 24-105 f4, and I prefer that lens over the 24-70. Yeah, it's an f4 lens, but it has image stabilization (24-70 does not), and I usually stop down to f4 anyway, especially if there is more than one person in the picture. I noticed that Canon is making that lens for the mirrorless line of cameras, so I wouldn't overlook it as an option. Cameras and software are great at dealing with high ISO's now, so cranking the ISO isn't a problem. If I really need to do some serious background blurring, I will pull out my 50mm 1.8 or 135 f2, but the 24-105 will take care of 95% of what I shoot. Thanks for posting this video!!

[@MikMilman]

Makes sense. Appreciate your thoughts.

[@guyphoto9437]

Excellent advice!

[@MikMilman]

Glad you think so! Especially coming from a pro.

[@agaezegoodness7206]

Thank you Mik Milman

[@MikMilman]

You got it.

[@manojkrishnan9941]

Thank you very much for sharing this video.

[@MikMilman]

Thank you for watching. Plenty more coming.

[@erikag3501]

Thank you for sharing !!

[@JakeHoffman4life]

Yeah man, I don't understand it, you're concise, thorough, and most often correct so I dunno why it takes so long to find your videos.

[@soaringdesigns7829]

I shot a murder mystery that was put on by a few of my friends. I really enjoyed the process and loved how the photos turned out. However, I never created and set up a photo release for the attendees. So I have all of the photos that I cant use for a portfolio. I know a few of the attendees personally, so I can probably get them to sign one, but that was definitely one of my biggest regrets.

[@rgeiv]

Thanks for doing the video. Very informative and direct to the point. Awesome! I have a question. What type of file are you using, RAW or JPEG? One more subscriber here.

[@MikMilman]

Thanks for your comment. I always shoot raw. The only time I shoot jpeg is when they need immediate delivery before I leave the job. In those situations I still shoot raw + jpeg. Even if you apply minimal edits like I do, you always want the latitude working with raw files provide you.

[@b_wtangible_moments]

Thanks for all the info! Happy shooting!

[@MikMilman]

Did you make it all the way through?

[@b_wtangible_moments]

@@MikMilman yes

[@MikMilman]

@@b_wtangible_moments glad you enjoyed it! Makes it worth the effort

[@nmelcam1]

Excellent video, I've been shooting events since 2007 and found this video helpful for those that are starting and as a refresher for seasoned event photographers. You should make a video on lighting and modifiers for event photography. In my case I use flashes, depending on the event, weddings and sweet 16's, I use 3 flashes, two on stands (usually near the toast area and another in the dance area) with custom reflectors that I designed myself and another on hand with a bounce reflector. On outdoor events for the city or autoshows, I just take 2 flashes on hand, 1 on hand and another in the case for backup. Everyone has a different approach so a video on this would be awesome :-)

[@MikMilman]

Thanks, Nestor! Great to hear from another veteran. I have been thinking a lot about making a video like that, but I want to do it right. I feel like the best way to illustrate things is by actually showing it while done in a live situation. The problem with that is having someone follow me around on a job like it's my E! True Hollywood Story heh. You're right that there are many ways to do things which is why I encourage people to understand the foundation of how light works rather than memorize set techniques. In the meanwhile, I do have a few videos on using strobes you might find interesting. I look forward to hearing more of your thoughts on my videos! Thanks again.

[@Mejtub]

Great video. Thanks!

[@MikMilman]

Happy to hear you enjoyed it! Make sure to check out my advanced tips too.

[@danemarc]

thanks for the video bro!

[@toshsimpkin4386]

I cover running events, lots of the ultra marathons; I've three 100 mile ultra marathons over each consecutive weekend; just done one, have another this weekend, then a weekend off, then another. These are like photography endurance events. I started Saturday afternoon, didn't sleep at all Saturday night and had to work all day Sunday in boiling temps. Then this weekend I'm in the mountains and the weather is forecast for heavy rain, thunder and lightening. It's a flipping nightmare. I'm too creepy to do glamour photography though. :-)

[@ReshLustre]

Thanks Mik

[@fennixshark2584]

I am just starting with event photography and i was really nervous, now i know which lens to get and what to focus on. This video did not feel long at all and i loved listening to your expertise! Thank you so much! As my first lens for events on the Sony APS-C platform do you think the 18-105mm f4 is any good? I would love to hear back from you about it!

[@MikMilman]

I'm happy to help. I will admit, I am not super familiar with Sony's APS-C system. But an 18-105mm would give you a full frame equivalent of about 27-158mm. That would cover your bases, but you have to consider the quality of the lens. Creating a lens with such a large focal range tends to do so at the cost of image quality. So I would say do your research on that. Another question to ask, is the aperture constant?

[@fennixshark2584]

@@MikMilman Thank you for this amazingly detailed answer! Right, after watching your video I thought it might be the best focal length that I can afford right now. The aperture is constant f4, so that seems to me as a good thing. Sharpness wise that is a different story. The reviews I looked at showed a level of sharpness that I would consider ok. Especially on f4 the images were somewhat soft. The thing is, that otherwise I only have a 30mm f1.4 prime lens and the 16-50mm f3.5-5.6 kit lens. And so I am looking for a lens that I can basically do everything with, and upgrade the glass over time. What do you think about this?

[@movieman2009]

Can you talk about what camera bag, sling, waist pack whatever it is you walk around with at the event. Also what are the best mens shoes you like that supports you, your back and so your feet dont hurt while standing and running around for a few hours.

[@MikMilman]

Yes I could, but it wont be much of a sell. I use a (literally) 35-40 year old camera bag. Its the same bag the first photographer I second shot for started with. After 30 years he replaced it and gave it to me. I do have a couple of other bags I use as well though. I'll make a video for sure.

[@MikMilman]

You got my brain activated. Now I'm thinking about what else I could cover... I might make a part two to this video. Anything else you'd like covered?

[@movieman2009]

@@MikMilman Yes, best way to shoot a group or table shots with flash, are you using a diffuser or bounce or flash bracket. Good video, one I will rewatch and reference !

[@MikMilman]

You've probably already watched it, but if not, take a look at my advanced tips: kzbin.info/www/bejne/ppvJaGp4jJ2jmac

[@NextScamdemic]

Shoes: Cole Haan makes a line of men's dress shoes that have sneaker soles. You can suit up with them but feels like you're in sneakers!

[@joseuribe1552]

good tips!

[@thenexthobby]

Great video! I'm not doing this, but keep "threatening" to do some photography as a side hustle. Took some notes. In no particular order here are some things that resonated with me. - trading photo services for experience in order to build a portfolio, even if it's only one free event before charging money. Also, be aware of what your service area charges (that's my "tip," and Google can help, but in isolated/rural areas like where I live, it seems easier because there are few competitors and yet no one's getting rich from photography when your clients are getting married in jeans, out by the barn. That's no joke.) - related to that, and one of the commenters already showed it's possible, is to post personal/hobby images somewhere and someone you know will help expose what you do. You might get asked for work as a result? This is the "oh, they have a camera and their images look good" type of pure luck, but so what, that's fine. - related to _that_ I have an idea to "give the gift of photography" to friends or friends of friends. Say you're at a birthday party. You may post images and let them have free access to them (obviously!) but then show up at their door with a free 8x10 of a good image. Online images, even of important events, go dark in our memory FAST. People need to know you're the "go-to" person for this, yeah? - show up early so that you're not rushed at the start and yeah, many of those detail shots/table decorations will be trashed later, so shoot them first - pay attention to apertures (always) but especially when shooting only a few people who aren't in the same focal plane - know what your field of view is before you raise the camera, and preselect an AF point based on where the subject will be moving into soon. (That last one (anticipating where they'll be within the room space AND where in the frame they'll be is pure voodoo for me but can see why it would be a powerful way to increase keepers.) I should watch your step-and-repeat video; that seems related.

[@MikMilman]

What's stopping you from going for it?

[@thenexthobby]

​@@MikMilman It's often been difficult for me to identify where and how my hobbies become needs. I mean c'mon, just look at my username here. It's easier to just ignore it and not think of it in that way. I recall how you mentioned in another video where you "had to be told" to pursue the career, in which case (in _your_ case) it was then obvious. That's not my situation, and I don't have the structured background you had regarding photo work that helped position you (darkroom experience and whatnot) prior to jumping in. I'm attracted to the idea of carving out a photo niche in areas I might feel comfortable in. In my small town I know that (for example) real estate work and weddings would not pay much. Same goes for high school "spring environmental portraits" out by the barn and so on. I interpret that as an easier barrier to entry, because it's less about the money in that case, for everyone. Also, I'd hope I could do it better in many cases! Short version: Joel Grimes says the only difference between getting paid work and sitting on the couch is that the people getting paid keep knocking on doors and making the phone calls, and to keep hammering the same people again and again until they begin to take you up on what you offer. Classic sales approach to perseverance. Rinse and repeat.

[@thenexthobby]

@@MikMilman Too often I haven't taken the hobby seriously enough (as a priority) to reach some basic results I've wanted. Too often I've taken the casual snapshot without regard to what I was doing. When I look at my work, I've always been aware of composition more than lighting quality or freezing an image so that it's sharp. My brain sees a composition, camera comes up, and the settings are wrong or I didn't think to bring a speed light or notice the shadows on their faces and so on. In retrospect that's largely a waste of time, absent of growth as a practitioner, even an amateur one. Just the other day we went to a restaurant for my kid's birthday. About 5 of her friends were there. I took some images. Some OK, one or really cool shots, a few duds. But as we were wrapping up I still had no image of _all_ the kids together. Staged or not, I didn't care, I just wanted them to least line up near the back wall and smile. I actually had to think about how to ask them to do this for like 5 minutes and not miss the opportunity. And they're only middle schoolers! Since when would any adult be "shy" around kids? I felt so dumb. But when the time came I did stand up from the table and get them to do it. Shot 3 images, two unusable due to them not paying attention, a 3rd was pretty good. That's the kind of basic crap I need to take control of ... my own inertia. After all, we don't want to "take" pictures, I want to _make_ them, yeah?

[@jaimemarrero23]

such A1 advice

[@alexanderungersboeck]

Thank you! :)

[@MikMilman]

:)