Speaking 101: Event Photography Tips for Cell Phones

Did it really happen if you didn’t post about it? 

Taking photos at events is nothing short of difficult. Between the packed audiences, dark rooms, and speakers in motion, it can be hard to get the perfect shot. 

Here are a few tips to take your cell phone photos to the next level, so you can stop worrying about how good your photos look, and focus on the content you want to share.

1. The early bird sits up front: Don’t be afraid to get there early to scope out the stage and find the best place to take a photo. If you arrive before the other guests, you can position yourself to get the shot without worrying about stepping over people. 

2. Plan your shots ahead: Prep a shot list before you arrive so you know exactly what you want to capture. Events can be overwhelming and exciting. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and end up leaving the event without any photos. Brainstorming what scenes you want to capture ahead of time can ensure you leave with a variety of thoughtful images to document your experience.

3. Light it up: Lighting can make or break a photograph. It can be tricky to find good lighting—especially during conferences that are often dimly lit or have colored uplighting. In these situations, try tapping on different areas of the image on your screen and see how this affects the light in the photo. If this doesn’t work, consider using your phone’s flash. This is helpful when you’re capturing close-up subjects, such as people at the event or table displays. 

4. Lights, camera, ACTION: A great way to remember the event is to get action shots of the other attendees. Snapping pictures of crowds in the room and people you meet with help you capture the experience and network with others. Sharing these photos will also give your followers a great idea of the overall energy at the event. 

5.  Enjoy the content: At the end of the day, you are there to ENJOY the content and leave feeling inspired and motivated. Take the time to snap a few photos, but don’t forget to unplug and focus on learning something new.

Speaking 101: How to Be So Engaging, Even a Goldfish Will Remember You

Let's be honest: introducing yourself to a total stranger and having a memorable, fulfilling conversation right away seems far-fetched—but what if it doesn’t have to be? Imagine being able to not only overcome the awkward small talk of a first-time interaction, but also turn it into a moment that is valuable and worthwhile for both parties.

We’ve put together some key tips on how to better prepare yourself for the next time somebody strikes you with the question, “So, what do you do?” 

1. Switch it up: In most settings where you’re meeting new people, it’s common practice to talk about work right away. Knowing this, come prepared with something, anything, better than, “So, what do you do?” Ask them why they do what they do or what their favorite project is currently. Create the opportunity to see a side of somebody that goes beyond a general field of work.

2. Be human: Maybe you’re at an event and found the perfect person to network with. Do a little background research by quickly checking their LinkedIn profile or listen carefully to them speak. You’re bound to find something you have in common. All of a sudden you’re the closest thing they have to a new friend at this event.

3. Make big talk, not small talk: Introduce your line of work in a way that leads to a question prompting an even bigger idea. For example, I could say something like, “I connect clients with speaking opportunities to grow their thought leadership. If you had to give a Ted Talk, what would your topic be?” People love to talk about themselves, just give them the chance.

4. Add more depth to your role: Your title alone is the least interesting thing about your job. Next time you’re prompted to talk about work, mention what you love about your job or a project you’re working on. Energy is contagious. If you’re excited, they’ll get excited not only because what you’re working on is awesome, but because you’re not talking about the weather.

5. Keep in touch: Did you pay attention to what your new friend said? Great! Now follow up. People love to be remembered. Similar to when you write a thank you note after an interview, leave the conversation remembering something that stood out to you and include it in your follow-up note. People are used to forgetting the details of their interactions the moment they’re over. You’ll stand out by showing you were paying attention.