There’s a lot of production overlap that happens when shooting video and shooting stills for a campaign. When possible, it makes sense to capture both at the same time instead of scheduling two separate shoots. This can have a lot of positive benefits but there are also some things to keep in mind if you haven’t done a hybrid shoot before. But first the positives.

• Scheduling just got a lot easier. Getting talent together once to knock out a campaign will save a lot of headaches.
• Travel budgets and incidental expenses can be spread out over fewer days instead of weeks or months.
• You’re more likely to get all of your creative team focused and in the same place for one shoot rather than two or even three.
• Some expenses can be shared. Catering, some equipment, wardrobe, art may be able to combined.
• You may be able to spend more on some things like locations, wardrobe and art because they will shared.

Things that won’t necessarily become easier

• Planning. You’ll have to coordinate two separate needs and possibly two or more separate directions both internally and externally. Planning has to start early and everyone needs to be hands on in managing till the last frame is captured.
• Talent costs. Unless your production is non-union don’t expect your talent cost to drop dramatically. Unions will want usage fees plus session fees. Do your homework first.
• Shooting times. A mixed media shoot can really wear out a producer because you may have multiple things happening at the same time and all needing to be supervised. More stuff can happen in few days but just is much shooting or more will happen.
• Stress. You’ll still have a lot but the good news is it will be over quicker.
• Labor. If it’s a big shoot there are going to still be a lot of people needed for both motion and stills. Unfortunately a camera assistant isn’t the same thing as a photo assistant and she can’t be in two places at once.

Things to keep in mind

• Photographers aren’t necessarily directors and directors aren’t necessarily photographers. Sometimes two really is better than one.
• Working with teams who have experience working together will help dramatically.
• Carefully plan out your days so you can make the right compromises. You will be making compromises but you’ll also create synergy that will have some unexpected benefits.
• Motion has a bigger camera and more crew so they can overtake stills. Be aware and make sure you’re giving in for the right reasons.

To learn how we can help on your next mixed media shoot, send us a quick note and we’ll schedule a call.