Be you! Press shots are valuable snapshots for musicians that convey information about you, your goals, and the music you love.
Your press photos should convey the story of your music and you. These subjective narratives can be conveyed through visual imagery and artwork.
Before you even consider taking one photo, identify the characteristics and imagery that define your brand, image, or image band.
Do your research
The internet is your best friend when it comes to getting great press shots.
This book is filled with information and tips on how to get the best lighting and styling, where to look, and best photography practices. It has everything you need for a successful photo shoot.
Online research can be a great way to visually get your music out there.
You could, for example, look up artists who have a similar style to yours and analyze their approach. Then, you could borrow one of their ideas and modify it to your liking. You can even look at artists outside your normal frame of reference. You never know what you might discover!
The point is looking for inspiration, looking at what’s been done, and creating your perspective.
You can decide whether you want to hire a photographer or if you prefer to shoot your photos.
Hiring a professional photographer can elevate your promotional photoshoot.
While you are skilled at making great music, taking amazing photos is their expertise. They’ll be able to provide some helpful guidance in expressing your artistic vision before the camera.
A photographer is a great way of getting an outsider’s view. While you might be able to identify the vibe you want to create, a photographer can help you determine if it is the right vibe.
However, do not feel pressured to hire a photographer. Both have pros and cons, but if you don’t have the budget or are uncomfortable with having someone else shoot your content, don’t be afraid to ask!
You can still take great photos for your band if you do your research and are organized.
Set the scene
You must choose the right setting for your photoshoot to reflect the aesthetic and tone of your artist’s brand.
The scene-setting can be described in terms of:
The location. If you’re releasing an album of folk, hippy music, or a song about love, a field of flowers may work well. An abandoned warehouse might be more appropriate for a dark, sinister track of death metal. When choosing your location, think about the overall mood and concept of the song or album.
Clothing and styling options.
Make sure your outfits reflect your brand or the overall music concept. Different types of clothing can be used to communicate individuality and multiple personalities within bands, as shown in the Spice Girls example. ).
Use props– Items that add dimension to your photos, such as handhelds or instruments.
Be aware that concepts are cool but don’t forget your common sense.
(Yes, but the pirate hat down.
Taylor Swift is pictured in a large flannel jacket with barren trees as the backdrop. The seasonal setting for Taylor Swift’s Evermore’s shoot is in keeping with the album’s moody feel and lyrical themes about love and loss.
Be consistent
Consistency is a key aspect of taking photos for the press.
The branding should be consistent across all image touchpoints, whether between your music video or your press photos.
Perhaps it is logical for you and your band to use a consistent filter or stylish grain to help glue all your content together. Maybe not. Sometimes, it’s as easy as using the same colours or imagery in all of your press photos.
This was the 1975’s press shot for their 2016 album (*inhale).
As you can see, their album cover art features pinky tones that are reflected in their promo photos.