2020 was a year unlike any other for photographers and creatives across the world. The unexpected disruption caused by the global pandemic altered work schedules, forced the rethinking of creative processes, and introduced new health and safety protocols. Initially, I had big plans for a busy year ahead, with an array of photography projects lined up. But as Covid-19 swept across the globe, those plans were quickly thrown into disarray. Looking back, I am grateful for the opportunity to adapt and overcome these turbulent times. During the early months, I was able to take on a few projects from home, then gradually returned to shooting on location by mid-summer. By autumn, I even secured a full-time position as a staff photographer with Foxtrot. Despite all the uncertainty, it’s been a year of growth and resilience.
Finding Opportunities in a Time of Crisis
As the lockdowns in Chicago began to lift in the spring, I had my first opportunity to step back into the field with a new project. The assignment was a dream: an interior design photoshoot for a spacious coffee shop. The venue offered plenty of space, allowing for easy social distancing, and the client took all necessary precautions, such as mandatory mask-wearing and hygiene practices. It felt like the perfect project to ease back into the swing of things, and I was able to work without much anxiety. The atmosphere was calm, professional, and focused. However, I soon realized that not all shoots would be as straightforward and safe as this one.
Navigating Risks and Unexpected Challenges on Set
One of the most difficult shoots I experienced during the pandemic involved a project for a publication I had never worked with before. The assignment was to photograph a chef in his restaurant, which on paper seemed like an exciting opportunity. However, as the day progressed, I encountered several challenges. While the restaurant staff was vigilant about maintaining safety measures, one individual on set – a videographer – made me question the precautions being taken. In casual conversation, I learned that he had recently flown into Chicago from another state and had not been tested for Covid-19. Worse, he mentioned that he likely contracted the virus earlier in the year and didn’t think it was a serious concern anymore. This disregard for social distancing made me feel deeply uncomfortable. I immediately took extra precautions to minimize exposure and limited my interaction with others for several days afterward, but the entire experience left me frustrated and uneasy.
Maintaining Health and Safety on Set: A Photographer’s Approach
Daily Health Protocols: A Foundation for Safety
Throughout the course of the pandemic, my approach to health and safety, both on set and in my everyday life, has evolved to become a core part of my routine. As a photographer, my job requires me to work in diverse environments with various people, making it crucial to implement stringent safety measures. On a personal level, I always wear a mask whenever I am outside my home, not only to protect myself but also to ensure the safety of others. Hand hygiene is an essential part of my day. I sanitize my hands regularly, especially before and after interacting with any equipment, surfaces, or people on set. Additionally, I make a conscious effort to avoid touching my face to further reduce the risk of transmission.
In addition to on-set protocols, I’ve adjusted my daily routine to minimize exposure to others. My social interactions have mostly been limited to outdoor, socially distanced gatherings with close friends, allowing us to remain connected while maintaining a safe distance. The rest of the time, I focus on staying at home. We opt for takeout rather than dining out, and trips outside the home are limited to essential errands. This slower, more deliberate pace of life has been a significant shift from the fast-moving pre-pandemic lifestyle, but I’ve found that it fosters a sense of peace and control. This level of caution and care ensures that I continue to follow best practices for health and safety while carrying out my work and personal activities.
The Role of Testing: A Critical Component for Safety
As my photography schedule picked up again, I realized that testing would become a fundamental part of my ongoing safety measures. The introduction of rapid testing has been a game-changer for the industry, providing a layer of security that allows both creatives and clients to feel more comfortable during shoots. For me, the decision to incorporate testing between shoots was an easy one. Given the inherent unpredictability of the virus, I knew that relying solely on my own precautions wouldn’t be enough. In a profession that requires interaction with various individuals in different settings, taking the extra step of getting tested regularly would help me feel more secure in resuming shoots.
While rapid tests aren’t without their limitations—false negatives are a known risk—taking this proactive approach has become an essential part of my strategy to ensure that I’m not unknowingly putting others at risk. Coupled with social distancing, mask-wearing, and frequent sanitization, testing has significantly lowered the likelihood of exposure. It has also provided peace of mind for clients, many of whom appreciate the additional effort to safeguard everyone involved. Despite the challenges and uncertainties surrounding Covid-19, this comprehensive approach to health safety has allowed me to continue doing what I love without compromising my well-being or the well-being of those around me.
The Changing Landscape of the Photography Industry During the Pandemic
Like most photographers, I initially believed that the pandemic would pass relatively quickly and that I could continue my work with a few adjustments. However, it became painfully clear that the situation would last much longer than anticipated, and the challenges it presented would require far more than a temporary pivot. The impact on the photography industry has been both swift and profound. Many photographers, including myself, found themselves grappling with the loss of bookings, canceled shoots, and a sudden shift in client demands. With the industry facing an uncertain future, it was difficult to predict what projects would be viable or even safe to undertake.
As the months dragged on, the financial strain became apparent. Like many creatives, I was faced with tough decisions: which projects to take on, how to balance safety with income, and whether to accept assignments that didn’t align with my usual standards or safety preferences. The uncertainty forced photographers to adapt quickly, either by diversifying their skillsets or by taking on less-than-ideal assignments just to keep their businesses afloat. There were moments of stress, doubt, and fear, but the ability to persevere and continue creating in the face of such adversity became a testament to the resilience of the creative community.
Unrealistic Client Expectations: The Pressure to Prioritize Safety Without Compromising Quality
One of the most frustrating aspects of navigating the pandemic as a photographer was dealing with clients who seemed to prioritize health and safety but then made unreasonable requests that complicated the situation. In many cases, clients would insist on following strict Covid-19 protocols, but their project demands didn’t align with the safety measures they purported to uphold. For instance, I once bid on a project where the client wanted to implement extensive safety protocols while also requiring a large group of 20 models for the shoot. While I fully understood the desire to keep everyone safe, it became apparent that managing such a large group of people under these restrictions would be a logistical nightmare.
In an effort to strike a balance, I proposed a detailed schedule that broke the models into smaller pods to limit exposure and maintain social distancing. This strategy seemed like a viable solution to both the client’s demands and the ongoing safety concerns, but ultimately, I didn’t win the bid. In an unexpected twist, I actually felt a sense of relief when the project didn’t go forward. It was one of the few times when being passed over for a job didn’t bring the usual disappointment. The thought of compromising my safety—and by extension, the safety of everyone involved—was simply not worth the risk. It was a reminder that some projects are just not worth pursuing, no matter how appealing they may seem at first.
Practical Measures That Have Helped Me Stay Safe on Set
While there is no foolproof method for eliminating risk, there are several steps I’ve taken to ensure that my shoots are as safe as possible in the current climate. First and foremost, I’ve made it a priority to keep my shoots as brief as possible to minimize exposure time. I also select locations that allow for ample space to ensure social distancing is achievable. Whenever feasible, I limit the number of people on set, reducing the potential for close contact and ensuring that the necessary precautions can be followed. I’ve also established clear communication with clients and collaborators ahead of time about safety expectations, so everyone knows what is required before the shoot begins.
Another key safety measure has been the consistent use of masks. While this may seem like a basic step, it has proven incredibly effective at preventing the spread of droplets and ensuring the safety of everyone involved, especially in close-quarters situations. Mask-wearing, combined with proper ventilation and regular hand sanitization, has become the baseline for all of my projects. These measures may seem simple, but they are essential in maintaining a safe and efficient environment on set.
Adapting to New Realities: Looking Ahead
The world of photography has undoubtedly changed since the onset of the pandemic, and it is likely that the industry will continue to evolve in response to new health guidelines, client expectations, and technological advancements. As the situation progresses, I am optimistic that the lessons learned during this period will lead to a more adaptable, resilient, and resourceful creative community. For me, the key to continuing in this industry has been flexibility. I have learned to adapt to unexpected changes, whether it’s adjusting my workflow to accommodate safety measures or finding new ways to connect with clients. The pandemic has reshaped the way we approach photography, but it hasn’t diminished the power of creativity.
Although the future remains uncertain, I am confident that the photography industry will continue to thrive. The challenges we’ve faced have only strengthened our resolve, and the creativity that drives this industry will remain as strong as ever. With a commitment to health, safety, and adaptability, photographers and creatives can continue to navigate this new era and emerge stronger than before.
Implementing Practical Safety Measures on Set: My Approach During the Pandemic
The Covid-19 pandemic has undoubtedly changed the way we approach nearly every aspect of life, including the creative process in photography. While no set of guidelines or protocols can guarantee complete safety in such uncertain times, I’ve taken a proactive approach to minimize risk while continuing to produce high-quality work. As the photography world faces unprecedented challenges, ensuring health and safety has become a central priority in my daily routine.
Prioritizing Safety Through Efficient Shoot Logistics
One of the most effective measures I’ve implemented on set is the focus on shoot efficiency. By keeping photoshoots as brief as possible, I reduce the time that individuals are in close proximity to one another, limiting potential exposure. This approach has proved invaluable, especially when working in confined spaces or locations with limited ventilation. I always ensure that the venues I choose are spacious and well-ventilated, which allows for better airflow and contributes to reducing the risk of airborne transmission. It’s essential to make sure everyone on set feels comfortable and safe, which starts with the physical environment.
In addition to choosing larger spaces, I’ve become much more deliberate in planning shoot schedules. I’ve streamlined the process to minimize the number of people in the area at any given time. If possible, I reduce the number of crew members on set, working with only the essential personnel required to execute the job. Not only does this cut down on the potential exposure, but it also simplifies the coordination of safety measures, making it easier to maintain social distancing protocols.
Mask-Wearing and Hygiene Protocols: The Importance of Consistency
Another key safety measure I’ve implemented is the consistent use of masks throughout the shoot, which has become a non-negotiable rule. When people are not actively involved in the photography process, such as between takes or during setup, I make sure that everyone wears a mask. This has been shown to reduce the likelihood of transmitting respiratory droplets, which is crucial for safeguarding everyone’s health. I’ve found that maintaining a strict “mask on when not in front of the camera” policy has significantly reduced any concerns surrounding potential transmission.
Hand sanitization is another essential part of the safety plan on set. I encourage everyone to sanitize their hands regularly—particularly after touching shared equipment, props, or surfaces. This not only helps in preventing cross-contamination but also fosters an environment of mutual responsibility. As a photographer, I’ve made it a point to carry hand sanitizers with me at all times, ensuring easy access for both myself and my team. The extra attention to hygiene, even for smaller tasks, has become second nature and essential to the workflow.
Social Distancing and Set Design: Creating a Safe Working Space
Social distancing is one of the simplest yet most effective safety practices that I’ve incorporated into every shoot. While it’s not always feasible to maintain six feet of distance between everyone at all times, I’ve taken extra steps to structure the set in a way that encourages physical separation. For example, I set up a dedicated area for the talent and another for the crew, ensuring that people are not congregating in close quarters unnecessarily. This spatial planning, coupled with a firm commitment to limiting unnecessary interactions, has allowed me to continue working without compromising the health of those around me.
In the case of collaborative shoots, such as those involving multiple models or crew members, I’ve implemented staggered schedules where individuals come in groups, reducing the overlap of people on set at once. This pod-based structure minimizes the number of people interacting with one another, which allows me to maintain a safer working environment. While this approach might lengthen the duration of the shoot, the extra time is well worth it when considering the safety of the team.
Embracing Flexibility: Adapting to a Rapidly Changing Environment
Perhaps the most important lesson I’ve learned during this pandemic is the value of flexibility. The photography industry, like many others, has been forced to adapt rapidly to the evolving landscape of Covid-19, and it’s essential to be prepared for sudden changes. The protocols and safety measures that were considered sufficient early on might no longer be adequate as the situation continues to evolve. In this fast-changing environment, the ability to pivot and adjust my strategies has been crucial.
Flexibility doesn’t just apply to safety measures, but to every aspect of the creative process. From working with clients who have fluctuating needs to adjusting to new restrictions on travel or gathering, adaptability has become key. The pandemic has forced me to think outside the box—whether that’s planning shoots virtually or finding ways to work remotely—always ensuring that health protocols are upheld while still delivering the quality and creativity my clients expect.
The constant shifts in safety guidelines, local regulations, and client expectations have made it necessary for me to maintain a fluid, open-minded approach. It’s no longer just about the shoot itself; it’s about planning well in advance, communicating clearly with clients, and being prepared to handle unforeseen circumstances. That might mean rescheduling a shoot last-minute, changing locations, or even revisiting the creative vision to comply with safety restrictions. Embracing this level of flexibility has allowed me to keep my workflow moving while keeping both my team and clients as safe as possible.
Testing: A Critical Component of Health and Safety Protocols
As the pandemic continues, one of the most important tools in my safety protocol has been regular testing. Given the unpredictable nature of Covid-19, I’ve made it a priority to get tested between shoots. While the availability of testing varies by region, I’ve opted for rapid tests when possible. Although no test is infallible and there’s always a risk of false negatives, I believe that testing is an essential part of minimizing the spread of the virus.
Testing has become a way of reassuring not just myself, but also the clients and team members involved in a shoot. It allows everyone to proceed with a little more peace of mind, knowing that we’ve done our part in minimizing risk. Additionally, I’ve found that being transparent about my testing schedule with clients has strengthened our relationship and fostered trust.
It’s important to note that testing is just one element in the broader set of precautions I’ve taken, but it plays an integral role in mitigating exposure. By combining testing with mask-wearing, social distancing, and careful scheduling, I’ve been able to maintain a high standard of safety while continuing to work.
Final Thoughts:
The past couple of years have been a journey of constant adjustment, not just in how we work but in how we think about our craft and our health. Photography, like many creative fields, depends on human interaction—whether it’s capturing moments with a subject or collaborating with a team. The pandemic forced us to rethink every aspect of our workflow and redefine what "safe" work looks like. It wasn’t just about adjusting our schedules or learning new software; it was about redefining the culture of a set, establishing new boundaries, and reimagining what creativity looks like under restrictions.
For me, the most important lesson has been the value of flexibility and resilience. Flexibility not only in terms of adjusting to safety measures but also in how we approach new projects and deal with unexpected roadblocks. The pandemic brought an entirely new set of challenges that no one could have predicted. As I continue to work in the photography industry, I’ve realized that the ability to be adaptable—not just in technical skills but in mindset—has been crucial. It’s helped me survive this period and continue to do what I love. Resilience has been another key takeaway. The ability to face setbacks, whether it's an unfortunate exposure risk or a change in project scope, and bounce back stronger has been vital to staying grounded.
Looking ahead, the photography industry will likely continue to evolve. While many of the restrictions from the early stages of the pandemic have lessened, the experiences and lessons we learned will likely remain ingrained in how we approach our work. It’s clear that creativity can thrive even in difficult times, but it requires a combination of safety, adaptability, and constant reflection on how we can improve our processes to ensure that we’re not only protecting ourselves but those around us.
As I reflect on my journey, I am proud of how much the photography industry has persevered. Photographers, creatives, and artists around the world have continued to find ways to create, connect, and innovate, even when the world was in flux. Though the future may still hold uncertainties, one thing is clear: we are more resilient and resourceful than ever before.
