Not all work is "sexy". Some can be more classified "utilitarian". Yet, it seems these type of jobs are easier to shoot, edit, and work with the clients. On top of all this, they usually seem to pay more.
So why would an easier "utilitarian" job pay more than a complicated one? Well it's simple. Many of these jobs are large constructions projects, with huge budgets, and the final product needs to be marketed to future clients. That's where someone like me rolls in.
The word "easy" is relevant. I've worked on all kinds of projects with all kinds of clients. When you are dealing with interior design, things tend to get much more complicated. From moving furniture over 2 inches, to mimicking sun light through high-end windows, each shot can take up to an hour to shoot.
So when it comes to photographing a cold storage warehouse, it's pretty straight forward...as long as you know what you are doing. After years practicing in the architecture photography niche, it's much easier for me to compose and light images.
This is the case when it comes to my latest project with Williams Co.
Let's get something straight right off that bat: This project was work! I took time to scout, plan and confirm all of my shots. The day of the shoot, I both sweated and froze my ass off as I photographed the exterior in 105 degree heat, dry storage at 90, then immediately moved into cold storage at below freezing. This is the first time I've experienced sweat immediately turning into ice. Not to mention, the chaos of fork lifts reminded me of those crazy traffic videos from third world countries. (These guys get paid by the pallet so they're not messing around).
But the best weapon you have in cases like this is planning. Know exactly what you are going to shoot and plan each shot carefully. As a photographer, you have the privilege of being hired to shoot a project. Do your best to make everyone's day easier, especially yourself.
This job was a large project for my client. They needed marketing pieces to show future clients that they mean business when it comes to constructing dry and cold storage facilities. So they counted on me to get them the appropriate images. Everything was done by phone and email, and I'm happy to say they were very pleased with the results. Chem them out below:
