Two Years Behind the Lens: Photographer’s Role in Influencer Marketing

Important note on this collaboration

During 2021-2023, I worked closely with Paris-based influencer Nelly Hermance, producing consistent, high-quality content. Unfortunately, despite acknowledging the debt and multiple attempts to resolve the issue amicably, she left two invoices unpaid (€2050, including work for Galleries Lafayette and Balmain). While this collaboration gave me valuable insights into content creation, I strongly advise fellow creatives to be cautious in business dealings with her.

The Dynamic of a Long-Term Collaboration with an Influencer

What does it look like to work with an influencer consistently? In short, it’s about knowing what they need before they even ask for it. But let’s break it down, shall we? 😊

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Understanding different types of content 

Yeah, I know what you’re thinking - "We get it, a photographer should know everything about social media too. What else?". It’s not only about understanding the difference between Instagram carousel post and reel. It’s about anticipating whether a collaboration calls for casual lifestyle shots or more polished, campaign-style stills. It’s about knowing when product-focused images, storytelling sequences, or UGC-inspired content will serve the brand best - all while keeping everything aligned with the influencer’s aesthetic.
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Adapting to locations and weather

Paris might seem like it has an endless list of dreamy shoot locations, but that’s not exactly true when you have a very specific brief, and you need to squeeze it somehow in a very specific influencer’s feed. Sometimes you have to work within 4m2. And sometimes you need to do some photoshopping. And sometimes, when you think you’ve shot at every possible good spot in the city - well, you probably have. That’s when creativity kicks in, finding fresh angles or new ways to approach a familiar backdrop.

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Having a backup list of locations for unexpected rain, renovations, or overwhelming crowds? Essential.

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Speed and workflow efficiency for tight deadlines

Yep, that’s it. Everyone wants everything yesterday.

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From Self-Timer Struggles to Seamless Shoots

More Content, Less Hassle

Let’s be real - content creation is time-consuming. Starting with setting up for self-portraits, for example, and ending with hours of editing to make everything look nice. And I am not even mentioning the context when influencers have families, children, social life and often others jobs or brands to manage. 

Having a photographer means setup is already there, and you spend one hour max to get the perfect stills or videos. There is basically no more wasting time trying to get the “perfect” shot - just quick, efficient, consistent content that’s almost ready to go. And while it’s edited, there is time to live a life or work - to look for new opportunities or network.

Finding Your Creative Match: Trust & Creative Synergy

Hiring a photographer could be terrifying. Foremost, it’s important to find the one, and sometimes it definitely takes time. Finding the right photographer takes time, and the first few collaborations might come with an adjustment period. But once you develop that synergy, communication flows easier, and you no longer have to micromanage every detail.

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Your photographer learns about how you move in the frame, your best angles, your vibe and what you really want as a result. You also learn your photographer’s workflow and how to open yourself to new ideas and suggestions after years of doing content yourself.  When you work with a photographer who understands your vibe, everything stays consistent, no matter the campaign.

When you work with a person who understands you, your brand, and your content goals, everything just flows. And that makes all the difference.

While every collaboration comes with its challenges, one thing remains true: investing in a photographer means investing in your brand. It’s about more than just aesthetics - it’s about trust, reliability, and a shared creative vision that evolves over time.

So, if you’re an influencer or brand looking to take your content to the next level, working with a photographer might just be the missing piece. And if you find the right one? That’s when the magic really happens.

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