The last few years there has been no shortage of marches, protests, and rallies. And if the Women’s March on Washington is any indication of what to expect in 2017 – get ready to photograph more of them. As a photographer, these events are some of the most exciting to photograph, but they come with their own unique set of challenges.
Below are my suggestions for what to wear, what to bring and what to look for.
What To Wear
- Wear weather appropriate clothing and layering is best. Remember cotton kills – meaning wear lightweight moisture wicking materials. The temperature the day of the inauguration in 2008 was freezing, I know I was not the only photographer dealing with a quickly dying camera and phone batteries. I kid you not – I actually used the port-a-potties as a wind shelter to warm myself and my batteries.
- Know whether you can bring a camera bag or not. The notice regarding the Women’s March on Washington states that you cannot bring a bag. Be prepared to wear your camera and lenses on your body. I will take this opportunity to sing the praises of the Black Rapid camera straps and harnesses. In full transparency, I am one of their ambassadors – but I really do LOVE my curve strap. It has changed my life, truly.
- Comfortable shoes: I cannot stress this enough. The most dedicated photographers show up early and stay late. You will be on your feet for a long, long time. Your shoes should enable you to run, climb, stand and drop to the ground quickly.
What To Bring
- Extra batteries
- Two cameras if possible. (Don’t forget that your iPhone is a damn good camera.)
- Bring water. To save space in your pockets, you can use a water bag. I really like the ones that Vapur makes, reusable and foldable and you can clip to yourself with a carabiner.
- High protein, light-weight snacks. It will be a long day and you may not be able to stop to eat. Here is a list of my favorite photo assignment snacks: beef, turkey or venison jerky, energy bars, bag of salted nuts, chocolate covered almonds, peanut butter and jelly sandwich (because it tastes the same even if it is smooshed), and Peppermint Lifesavers because they just make me feel better.
What To Look For
Note: If you want to be inspired by some great protest imagery, visit the Bronx Documentary Center and see their current show Whose Streets? Our Streets.
Chances are, if you are covering a big event like the inauguration or the Women’s March on Washington D.C., you won’t be able to throw a camera without hitting another photographer. Keeping that in mind – if you are a freelancer hoping to sell your photos be sure to look for other angles, unexpected moments – go high, go low, go far, think and gaze differently. Be as creative as possible – my favorite election photographs this past year were made by Landon Nordeman, who photographed the bizarre elements of the election in a beautiful and unexpected way.
- Look for interesting ways to show the enormity of the march – how can you make a photograph that shows 200,000 citizens marching together?
- If you see a good photo don’t be afraid to stop and take it. Whatever you see in that moment may not be there for much longer.
- I am only 5ft tall, so I see things from my height, which in and of itself offers a unique perspective. What gives you a unique perspective? Whatever it is, use it.
- If you are aiming at selling singles – make great singles. If you are aiming at selling a photo essay, be sure to get a great establishing shot and some strong close-ups.
- Whenever possible, write down everyone’s name that you photograph and get their contact information. If you have cards, bring them and give one to people you photograph.
- Don’t forget reaction shots from the people who aren’t marching but are lining the route.
Beware of these pitfalls:
- People will be carrying placards that say interesting things (and of course include these in the photographs) but don’t be seduced by the placards. Remember the march is about the people carrying the placards.
- You might have an idea of the photos you want to take before you get to the march – but what you find may be different than what you expected. Be open to seeing a different story than the one you thought you were going to tell.
- If you are covering a religious or culturally sensitive march, procession or event, be knowledgeable about what can and cannot be photographed. If you aren’t sure, ask. It is far better to miss a photograph than to never be invited to take any photographs again.
Ok, be safe and get in touch to share your photographs. I can’t wait to see them.
