Movie Production Photos that You MUST Obtain

Nicole A.
Movie production photos or "stills" are necessary for any filmmaker. These items can help you effectively market your movie to an audience. Movie production photos are also required by distributors who may want to purchase the film. They are very useful when trying to garner media attention and advertise film festival screenings. The film's website is another place where movie production photos will be used. Here is a list of movie production photos that you MUST obtain.

Actors performing in each scene
It is important to take photos of your actors while they are performing various scenes. These photos are usually used in newspapers and websites. They will give viewers a sense of what to expect when they see your film. You can choose specific movie scenes to take photos. Several photos can also be taken in each scene. This will give you a wide selection to choose from. Taking lots of photos may not cost much, especially if you use a digital camera.

Actors in Character
Photos of your movie scenes are essential. You must also take pictures of the actors in character. These photos should be taken individually. Buy a nice backdrop or select an area on set where you can photograph each actor by themselves. This will be good material for your website and allows you to focus on one specific character if necessary. Actors usually have headshots and other photos that they could provide. However, it is better to have consistency while marketing your film.

Key Players
You should also take photos of the key players working on the film. These people include main characters and the director. A separate day can be scheduled for these photos. You can also take them right before you begin production. All of the key players do not have to be dressed in character. These particular photos can be used for film festivals with biographies in your press kit.

Cover Photos
When you start producing a film, it is important to think about covert art. This does not have to be determined immediately. However, you should have ideas written down throughout the entire production schedule. Doing so will help you to get things done faster. While you brainstorm about the cover art, take photos that depict these ideas. The photos may include props or characters alone. These movie production photos will become very useful when you put together the marketing plan.

Further reading: "Reasons why Filmmakers need Still Cameras".

Published by Nicole A. - Featured Contributor in Arts & Entertainment

She has written and produced several short movies. She currently works as a freelance editor while continuing to make independent films.   View profile

  • Photos of your movie scenes are essential.
  • All of the key players do not have to be dressed in character for these photos.
  • Cover art photos can include props or characters alone.
Actors usually have headshots and other photos that they could provide.

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.