How an international photography commission actually works — flights, fixes, and the edit

Most clients who commission overseas photography for the first time underestimate two things: the time required for meaningful work, and the value of a photographer who travels with their own kit. This essay explains how an international commission runs from first contact to final delivery.

The brief

The commission starts with a written brief: the destination, the purpose, the frames required, and the story the images must tell. We do not book flights until the brief is agreed — because the brief determines the kit, the duration, and the local support needed.

Pre-production

For factory commissions, we coordinate directly with your overseas team. For location work, we identify a local fixer, scout locations remotely, research permit requirements, and build a shot list with contingencies. The pre-production phase is usually two to three weeks.

Travel and capture

Ross travels with his own camera bodies, lenses, lighting and laptop — no rental dependencies, no airport surprises. A typical overseas shoot runs three to five days on location, with a day of acclimatisation built in. Jet-lagged photography is not the product you paid for.

Delivery

A shortlist of 20–30 frames within 48 hours of return. Full graded selects within 10 working days. Every frame is delivered with high-resolution masters, web-optimised versions, and clear usage rights. The captions are written to travel — translated where necessary, culturally accurate always.

Cost structure

International commissions are quoted as a flat project fee covering: photographer day rate, travel and accommodation at cost, local support, and the full edit. There are no hidden post-production charges. The quote is final before any travel is booked.