Aberdeenshire-based photographer Iska Birnie has spent the past few years combining her commercial photography work with freelance work for The Times Newspaper, an experience that continues to shape how she supports her clients and businesses across the region.
Working in the press environment requires a very different approach from planned commercial shoots. Assignments are often very short notice and time-critical, with limited access and little opportunity for lengthy setup or direction. It’s a case of arriving, quickly assessing the situation, building rapport with their subject, and delivering a strong set of images.
This experience has been invaluable for Iska and her approach to working with her clients. Photographing a wide range of stories and individuals has strengthened her ability to read a room, adapt quickly, and focus on what matters in the moment. These skills feed directly into her work with brand, commercial and PR clients, particularly those needing authentic imagery for media coverage and wider marketing.
The overlap between press and commercial photography is becoming increasingly relevant for businesses. Strong visuals are a key component of effective PR, and images that feel genuine and well-observed are more likely to be picked up by media outlets and resonate with audiences.
Reflecting on the experience, Iska is grateful for the opportunities and professional relationships that the work with the press has brought and looks forward to covering further stories for The Times in the year ahead.
To find out more about Iska and her work, visit her website: www.iskabirniephotography.co.uk