The majority of the job orders your imaging facility receives will probably be in support of providing photographic documentation for command functions. Photographic assignments that fall into this category are as follows: reenlistments, retirements, change of commands, awards presentations, and VIP (Very Important Person) visits. Some of the larger imaging facilities provide a photo mailer service whereby amateur photographers take snapshots of their command functions and forward the film to the imaging facility for processing. For those Photographer's Mates that are fortunate enough to cover these photographic assignments, high quality and professional service and products are imperative for the continued success of customer service and satisfaction.

To provide the best photographs possible, you must apply all of the principles and techniques discussed previously in this TRAMAN. Proper planning, composition, and lighting must be applied regardless of how routine you feel the job may be. Some general guidelines are as follows:

Always use bounce flash whenever possible.

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Figure 6-6. Award presented by the former Secretary of Defense Frank C. Carlucci

The reenlistee, retiree, or person being advanced, promoted, or receiving an award is always the subject (fig. 6-6). Regardless of who is presenting the award or conducting the ceremony (whether it be the division officer, commanding officer, or the Secretary of Defense), the recipient is always the center of interest.

Avoid profile photographs of the subject. If necessary, shoot over the shoulder of the person presenting the award or conducting the ceremony.

Prevent objects from giving the appearance of protruding from a person's head or body, such as pipes, flags, or doorframes. Always view the entire subject through the viewfinder and adjust your camera angle or viewpoint as necessary to prevent this compositional flaw.

If you miss a shot or you know the photograph does not meet your standards, such as eyes closed, face hidden, or flash does not fire, always re-shoot the photograph. When it is not possible to re-shoot immediately, setup and re-shoot after the ceremony.

When in doubt, re-shoot. Film is relatively cheap, but your reputation and the reputation of the photo lab is not.

Never fake a shot. If you run out of film or have camera problems, make arrangements to take photographs at a later time. Better planning and improved communication will normally prevent this from happening.