Sharing The Antics Of The Christmas Party

The annual Christmas party is just around the corner and for many companies it is a chance to get everyone together, thank them for their contributions over the year and really let your hair down.

But what rule do you follow when it comes to smart phones at the works Christmas do?

“What happens at the Christmas party stays at the Christmas party!” or are you more “we are who we are”?

The fact is, events such as hospitality, conferences and yes, even the Christmas party, can be a great way to share with clients and prospects the personality of your business and team.

Obviously, it is wise to exercise a little caution and maybe lay some ground rules to ensure that the photos shared, especially on social media, are still in keeping with your brand image. No-one wants to see their nurse or accountant falling over with limbs everywhere, but seeing them enjoying themselves and relaxed is reassuring that they are human.

Depending on your business, the event and the image you actually want to share with your clients and prospects, I would always advise having a professional photographer. That way everyone gets to enjoy the event and you have someone dedicated to producing quality images that are PR ready.

If you are happy to keep it causal and work with smart phones, I would suggest the following tips.

1. Think about what you would like to capture before the do is in full swing. Planning any shots you would like to appear on your social channels will not provide a framework for the evening, it also allows you to plan your social media posts in advance so you run less risk of spelling mistakes or errors on your posts.
2. Have a couple of designated people responsible for taking the shots. Sharing responsibility means that you are able to capture the whole team in the photos, but too many “shooters” and you risk losing the images you are after.
3. Think about composition, the rule of thirds is a great foundation to help give you balance in an image and remember, very few people take a flattering photo square on, get them to dip their chin and slightly turn from the camera if you are posing them for a group shot.
4. Look for light, Christmas parties tend to happen in the evening and, while most smart phones cameras have a flash it can be too harsh. Likewise, the green glow from the Christmas lights is not a flattering look. Remember that the light source should light up the face.
5. Set a cut off time. You are ultimately there to have a good time and celebrate a great year so make sure you set a time to put the phone down and just enjoy yourselves.

If you are planning a Christmas party or client event and would like to understand more on how professional photographs can be used as a powerful marketing tool to help communicate your personality and brand please get in touch..