Why You Should Hire a Stills Photographer for Your Film Publicity
Whether you’re working on a short film, indie feature, or major production, having the right visuals can make or break your film’s success. Unit stills photography is one of the most powerful tools in your film’s marketing kit—and it’s often overlooked. Let’s break down why hiring a stills photographer is a smart investment.
What Is Unit Stills Photography?
Put simply, unit stills photographers are the eyes behind your film’s marketing campaign. While the cameras are rolling, they’re quietly capturing impactful, high-resolution images that freeze the emotion, tone, and texture of your story into a single frame.
Where Unit Stills Are Used (and Why They Matter)
-
- Film Posters & Key Art: These signature shots end up on posters, banners, and promotional artwork — they’re often the first image audiences see.
-
- Press Kits & Publicity Materials: Publicists, film journalists, and blogs need crisp, compelling images to feature your film in articles and interviews.
-
- Posters, Teasers, and Website Content: Great stills provide the foundation for all your film’s visual branding, including one-sheets, websites, and teaser artwork.
-
- Festival Submissions: Many top-tier film festivals require stills — and they influence how your film is perceived before it’s screened.
-
- Social Media Content: Share-worthy visuals help build buzz across platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok before release.
-
- Behind-the-Scenes Moments: Capture the magic of filmmaking, celebrate your crew, and show off your production process to future collaborators.
Think of it like this: The film tells your story — but the stills sell your story.
Why You Need It — Even On a Budget
1. Screengrabs Don’t Cut It
Screengrabs are low-resolution, lack strong composition, and aren’t suitable for posters or PR. A stills photographer creates images that are designed for promotional use from the start.
2. You’ll Need Visuals Before the Film Is Finished
Distributors, festivals, and journalists need visuals long before your final cut is ready. Stills photographers provide you with usable images while the cameras are rolling.
3. You’ll Save Money and Time
A professional stills shoot reduces the need for extra marketing content later on. A few days of professional photography can easily create weeks’ worth of promotional material. Visuals transcend language. Your photos are what make someone stop scrolling and click “watch.”
Behind the Scenes: More Than Just Photos
Stills photographers also document:
-
- Rehearsals
-
- Lighting setups
-
- Set design
-
- Crew in action
These photos are valuable for promoting your production team, interactions between director and talent, also attracting future collaborators.
Screengrabs vs Stills Photography
| Feature | Screengrabs | Stills Photography |
|---|---|---|
| Resolution | Low | High-res, print-ready |
| Composition | Framed for motion | Framed for still impact |
| Marketing Use | Limited | Professional-grade |
Hiring a Stills Photographer
What to Look For:
-
- Experience working on set
-
- Strong, cinematic portfolio
-
- Understanding of editorial and press needs
Lauren Newman is an experienced unit stills photographer based in London, UK. She works with directors, producers, and crews to create visually engaging, emotionally resonant stills that help your film stand out.
Final Thoughts
Strong visuals sell your film—before the audience ever sees it. Don’t let poor images hold back your hard work. Hire a stills photographer who understands storytelling, branding, and the film world.
Contact Lauren Newman today to elevate your film or series with professional stills.