Leading up to the Valkyrie Challenge, the photographer we usually use for Esports events announced that he actually had a personal life and had a holiday planned (I know, so selfish right?). PANIC. With less than two weeks to go where would we find a photographer who would deliver?
Enter Tapsnapp
Tapsnapp is a South African start up I’d heard about from a top local blogger. Her husband is one of the founders and the team has built an online portal showcasing the best photographers in various cities. Photographers are able to load up their portfolios, pricing and availability. As someone looking for a photographer I’m able to go to the website, smash in your requirements and you’re presented with a list of possible photographers that can do what you need within your budget. Much of this blog post includes some of the amazing photographs captured at Valkyrie from the Tapsnapp photographer.
The process
The site currently has 50 photographers listed. Each photographer sets their own pricing, location and their skills. Whether you want a blog shoot, an event shot or need someone to snap pictures of your wedding – the site offers the necessary selection. You then select your budget and the date of the shoot. You’re fed back potential photographers in your city who specialise in the shoot type you require. You’re able to browse their portfolios, find what you want and book the photographer. Once the photographer accepts the booking you’re good to go.
Using the tech
Start up tech is notoriously buggy. I also find “tech entrepreneurs” get so caught up in the little things that their initial product is hard to navigate. This wasn’t the case with Tapsnapp at all. It made perfect sense and was so incredibly easy to use. I was blown away by how easy and simple the whole process was and, most importantly, how quick it was. I’d booked a photographer within minutes.
The shoot
My Tapsnapp photographer arrived at the selected time (moment of truth: I’d put in the wrong time but after a quick chat he made himself available earlier. Oops!), came over to get a quick brief and then went to work. I was in the middle of trying to host the panel and barely gave him much detail but yet he nailed it with beautiful photos and I am so incredibly happy with the final result. The site also has a FAQ section which explains exactly what process to follow if you aren’t happy (it happens) which also gave me peace of mind.
I’ve constantly searched for photographers to help me with product shoots, blog pictures and event photography. I’ve got my favourites who I found via word of mouth. Tapsnapp is like a giant word of mouth portal that gives you everything you need at the touch of a button and is suited to your budget. I think this was a big plus for me, not everyone can afford to drop thousands of rands on a photographer, so Tapsnapp ensures you only get offered what you can afford but even if you need to drop the budget – you’ll still get the best possible final product for your spend.
I cannot recommend this new tech enough. Tapsnapp is a great site and I’m trying to encourage all my photographer mates to sign up. If you are a photographer you can sign up here. Alternatively, if you still need convincing go check out the full Tapsnapp photo gallery from the Valkyrie Challenge on the Tech Girl Facebook page – no doubt you’ll be impressed!
