Photographer needed for theatre project New Orleans

Request for Proposal: Specialist New Orleans Photographer

We are a UK-based production company seeking a highly skilled, New Orleans based photographer for a critical project: capturing the essence of a renowned New Orleans theatre. This project aims to showcase the venue as a world-class destination, highlighting its architectural beauty and vibrant atmosphere with patrons during an evening performance. Our work will align with a specific artistic style established across 50+ venues in Europe. We prioritise a reliable, precise photographer who can execute a detailed shot list and and collaborate well. We have one chance to get this right at this specific venue, requiring a truly safe pair of hands.


Project Details & Deliverables

Location: A specific theatre in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Shoot Date/Time: At night, mutually agreed upon. The shoot is 4-5 hours, capturing evening ambiance, patron arrival, and moments during performance/intermission.

Crucial Limitation: No on-stage production elements are permitted; focus is solely on the venue and patron experience.

Creative Vision: Depict the theatre as grand, bustling, and inviting, from pre-show quiet to post-show applause.


Shot List Phases:
Interior (Empty Theatre - Pre-Arrival):

Wide, architectural shots of auditorium, lobby, public spaces before patrons. Focus on grandeur, design, ambiance.

Requires swift, efficient execution (limited access).

Exterior & Interior (Patron Arrival & Buzz):

Exterior Arrival: Wide shots of theatre exterior at night, with people entering. Showcase location, lit façade, dynamic energy.

Interior Atmosphere (with patrons): Wide shots conveying energy, without recognisable faces in close-up.

Staff Interaction (Arrival): Candid "action shots" of staff serving customers (e.g., box office, bars). Requires flexibility.


During Show & Intermission:

Interior During Show: Capture interior during performance in a very dark environment. Expertise in extreme low-light conditions is paramount (e.g., 30+ second exposures).

Discretion is Key: Highly discreet, silent, minimal time inside during show. Accompanied by staff.

Intermission Photos: Capture staff serving in bars/concessions, and additional interior shots.

Staff Setup (Styled): Styled shots of staff in bar areas, aiming for a "perfect bar" look.

"Money Shot" - Applause/Standing Ovation: Wide shot of entire theatre interior with audience applauding at finale. Key hero shot, though not always guaranteed.


Artistic & Technical Requirements

World-Class Depiction: Images must elevate theatre's perception to a premier global entertainment destination; photos must be "amazing."

Style & Shot List Adherence: Meticulous execution of our vision and detailed shot list is primary.

Natural Lighting (No Flash): Only available ambient light; no flash permitted. Non-negotiable for consistency and atmosphere. Must excel in extreme low-light.

Anonymity of Patrons/Customers:

Crowd Shots: Faces not recognisable in close-up.

Staff Interaction: Focus on backs of customers' heads/hands, or angles obscuring faces.


Equipment & Deliverables

Full-Frame Camera: Professional model essential (e.g., Canon R5 or equivalent) for low-light/long exposures.

Versatile Lens Kit: Comprehensive fast lenses (e.g., 11mm-200mm) for diverse scenes.

Tripod: Sturdy tripod mandatory for sharp, low-light images.

RAW Files Only: Delivered unedited. Our team handles all post-processing for consistency.

Image Quantity: To be discussed, expect comprehensive set.


Your Experience & Skills

Exceptional low-light photography expertise: Especially architectural, event, in-show theatre (no flash, 30+ sec exposures).

Strong portfolio: Showcasing similar high-quality, atmospheric imagery (interiors, dynamic crowds, styled setups).

Demonstrated ability to follow direct instructions and detailed shot lists precisely.

Comfortable working efficiently & discreetly in dynamic theatre environments.

Familiarity with discreet shooting techniques for natural environment/patron privacy.

Excellent communication & professional demeanour.


Collaboration & Application
We provide detailed coaching & guidance (based on 50+ European venues) and examples.

We handle all client liaison & booking logistics.

Collaborate smoothly with on-site theatre staff.

RAW files transferred via Google Drive within [X, e.g., 24-48 hours].


To Apply: Submit your proposal including:

Relevant portfolio: Highlight low-light, architectural, event, or theatre work (no flash, dark conditions, stylistic adherence).

Experience overview: Describe similar project experience, approach to low-light, discretion, and following briefs.

Equipment list: Confirm full-frame camera(s), lens kit, and tripod suitability.

Proposed fee for a 4-5 hour shoot.

We look forward to collaborating with a talented photographer to bring this world-class venue to life through stunning imagery.

Kind regards,
Alex