Why photograph a retreat?
You took everyone out of the office for a reason. The photos are how you show that reason to the people who weren’t there: new hires, recruits, and whoever signs off on next year’s budget.
They’re also the pictures your team actually likes of each other, because nobody’s at a desk.
Which parts matter?
- The sessions: whoever’s leading, and people working it out in small groups.
- The downtime: the walk, the long lunch, the hour on the deck.
- The venue itself, before everyone fills it.
- One team photo, outside if the weather’s on your side.
The whole retreat, or one day?
One day is usually plenty. Pick the day with the big session and the team dinner, and I’ll cover that.
Heading out to wine country?
A lot of DC-area teams head out to Loudoun and Fauquier for these. I’m based in Loudoun, and I’ve worked in Leesburg, Middleburg, The Plains and Warrenton.
When should we do the team photo?
Early, before people are tired, sunburned or changed for dinner. Put it on the schedule and tell everyone it’s coming, so nobody’s off on a call.
More is on Corporate events, and there’s a Winchester venue I’ve photographed on The Exchange on Loudoun.
