Find a Commercial Photographer in St. Louis

Corporate photography is the art of creating photographs for promotional purposes. For example, for your company brochure, website or social media channels. Commercial photographers specialise in imagery intended to be able to sell a product, company values or even portray a lifestyle. They will direct the shot to be able to achieve a particular aim that you have set out for them. For example, how easy it is to train in a brand of gym clothing. Or the luxurious surroundings of a spa.

They will ensure the image portrays your company in the best light, by using their artistic flair to bring the photos to life. Once any touch-ups have been completed, you’ll then be provided with a series of high quality images you can use for all your marketing needs.

Photography is an art form and so creative flair is imperative. The photographer also needs to be able to follow a brief. Usually, photographers will have a portfolio you can browse before you contact them. This will give you an indication of their style and the type of shoots they specialise in. Ideally, the photographs will be ultra-sharp, colour corrected and most of all, get across a clear message that fits your brand aesthetic.

Photography is a very broad specialism, and as well as commercial and corporate photography, there are various other types you can hire too.

• Product Photography - Product photography involves isolating products to be able to display them on a website or other forms of physical marketing. Product photography requires skill especially in lighting, as items are usually filmed indoors on a white background. Alternatively, the photographer may set up a special backdrop for each product. The goal is to make each product clearly visible for retail purposes.

• Real Estate Photography - Property is one of the largest assets any of us will ever own, so it makes sense to photograph it in the best light. Real estate photographers will go around each room of the home and take flattering shots for prospective viewers. Real estate photography can also be adapted for staging, which is when the images are edited to show the potential of the property. This is especially popular with new developments that don’t have anyone living in them yet.

• Portrait Photography and Corporate Headshots - Portrait photography captures the life of humans or animals. Portrait photography shoots are popular with families, couples and for newborn photography. Compared with trying to take your own photos, a portrait photographer will put you at ease. Portrait photography can also be used for passport photos. A corporate headshot is a type of portrait photography showing an up-close image of a person’s face, most commonly used for the staff pages of company websites.

• Lifestyle Photography - Capturing life as it happens is the job of a lifestyle photographer. Rather than a static image, they will look to bring life and vitality to every shot. It’s ideal for creating timeframes of moments you want to cherish forever. For example, engagements or a pregnancy.

While photographers can have degrees and other qualifications, the best way to check your photographer’s credentials is by viewing their portfolio.

There are some crossovers with commercial and corporate photography, but corporate photography focuses more on company headshots or capturing images at tradeshows and similar company events.

When you’re looking to convey a sense of professionalism, corporate photography can be a huge asset. Compared with using ‘Facebook’ style images of your employees, corporate photography will have everyone suited and booted, and representing your business in the best light.

Sometimes it’s necessary to use stock photography. However, the trouble is the image isn’t original. It might not even best describe what it is that you do, especially if taken in another location where the equipment or procedures are different. By hiring a commercial photographer, the images will better represent your business. They’ll also be unique to you, and will help to establish a sense of authenticity and trust. You’ll also avoid any potential issues with copyright, especially if the images have been taken straight from search engines.

Photographers are usually freelancers who set their own rates. The cost of your commercial photography will depend on your location, the experience of the photographer and how much work is involved. While it’s sometimes possible to pay a photographer per hour, usually they will work for a fee based on the scope of the job.

Absolutely! Though the photo shoot itself will take place in person. If possible, speak or meet with your photographer before the shoot so you can explain what it is you want, and ensure you’re both on the same page.