PRO CASE STUDY
William Paltridge from Double Exposure Photographic on why collaboration has been so good for business
WHAT ARE THE POSSIBLE REASONS FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS TO COLLABORATE?
It isn’t typical for photographers to collaborate, in fact, it can be quite a solitary practice. That said, there are occasions when more than one photographer comes together on a project. Within the commercial advertising sector it might be that another photographer offers the opportunity to capture different angles of the same shoot, or a different format camera for a unique look and feel. It could be that a photographer works on location in another studio, or area, and leans on a local professional who can assist with resources and knowledge. It’s much more common for a photographer to partner with an assistant, art director and stylist, though.
HOW CAN POTENTIAL COLLABORATORS BE IDENTIFIED?
It does depend on the assignment as to whether a potential collaborator is the right approach. If you are working away from your local area or own studio, then an online search for a local photographer or studio in the area you’re travelling to would be a good move. Getting advance knowledge of locations and facilities is always handy. There are various online platforms to facilitate this, too – often a quick online post to Facebook, Twitter or a members group might identify a fellow professional with the right skill set.
WHAT ARE THE PITFALLS TO BE AWARE OF PRIOR TO COLLABORATING?
Aside from the obvious conflict of interest and not wanting to give away all your secrets, the main thing is a case of too many cooks spoiling the broth. It’s not very common to have two similar-thinking creatives on the same project, as it can lead to a conflict in leadership. It’s a good idea to know in advance how another photographer can help specifically, and to identify those roles early on. Sticking to a plan will avoid confusion.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE A SUCCESSFUL PARTNERSHIP WITH EVEN DISTRIBUTION OF WORK AND RESPONSIBILITY, ETC?
This comes down to planning. From a personal point of view, even if both photographers have a similar skill set, it is often useful to adopt the roles of photographer and assistant. Allowing one photographer to manage shooting and the other lighting is a good start. If both attempt to run a shoot it’s a recipe for trouble. Be clear on each person’s role and stick to that.
HOW CAN DISPUTES AND DISAGREEMENTS BEST BE AVOIDED OR DEALT WITH?
Creative differences can lead to problem solving, but if not dealt with professionally may lead to awkward moments in front of the client. It’s best to be clear before the shoot of the roles you’ll each take, and the overall direction of the project including key deliverables. Discrete conversation and quick positive decision making is essential.
WHAT SORT OF PROJECTS/ENDEAVOURS ARE ESPECIALLY GOOD FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS TO COLLABORATE ON?
Trips abroad or into locations that are unknown could benefit from local knowledge – this is important potentially for documentary and landscape. From a studio point of view, having good contacts in other studios is ideal. These relationships can be built up over time, and can come to be very important. Relying on a good contact to be able to help you out is no bad thing. It might be that you don’t have the full skill set for a certain project, or are booked up – offering a valued client to another photographer can avoid disappointment and maintain relationships.
HOW IMPORTANT IS IT TO GET ON PERSONALLY WITH A COLLABORATOR?
Any collaboration relies on professional attitudes and similar personalities; it’s never easy working with someone who’s not on the same wavelength. This can’t be taught; it’s an experience thing. The more both parties understand each other’s workflows, creative perspectives and skill sets, the better.
DO YOU NEED TO SHOOT IN A SIMILAR STYLE OR HAVE A SIMILAR EYE?
No. On most occasions projects will benefit from personalities and skill sets that enhance and support each other. That said, it can’t hurt to have a similar eye; when two professionals agree that a shot needs ‘extra light’, or a product needs ‘just a tiny rotation’, it’s a sign you’re both firing on all cylinders.
“Any collaboration relies on professional
attitudes and similar personalities”