Before you start planning your shoot, check that your SPASA membership is current and that your membership type allows you to enter the category you have in mind. For example, a Pool Inspector membership can’t be used to enter a Build and Installation category. Once you know what you’re eligible to enter, you can make sure your photography captures exactly what that entry needs.
While you’re getting organised, start gathering the supporting documents you will need for your entry. Depending on the category, this could include building contracts, approved building plans and owner approval for Build and Installation projects, or customer and manager reviews for People, Business and Product categories. Getting these together early means less chasing when entries open.
Great project photography isn’t simply about getting a beautiful shot of a pool. You want images that showcase what you’re entering at its best and help tell the complete story. Look for someone experienced in architectural, property, landscape or lifestyle photography. If you don’t already have a photographer, try contacting local real estate agents. They regularly work with property photographers and may be able to recommend someone in your area. When you book, let your photographer know the images are for an Awards entry and talk through exactly what you need captured. A little planning before the shoot can help ensure you come away with a strong mix of images, rather than realising later that an important detail has been missed.
Think about the landscaping, equipment, architecture, entertaining areas and outdoor living spaces surrounding it. Capture details and finishes as well as wider shots that show how all the elements work together. Think about the story you’ll tell in your written entry too. Most categories ask for written pieces such as a customer brief, promotional blurb, and project or product description, so consider the features, challenges, and details you’ll want to talk about, and make sure your photography supports that story. And add some life. Movement in the water, people enjoying the pool or spa, entertaining and other lifestyle elements can help tell a much richer story than a collection of completely static images.
Think about timing too. Twilight photography can produce a spectacular hero image, but strong daytime shots are just as important for showcasing equipment, materials, finishes, water colour, landscaping and construction details. For renovation projects, make sure you capture clear ‘before’ images as well as the finished result. Ultimately, you want a collection of images that allows someone who has never visited the project to understand what makes it special. For renovation projects, don’t wait until the work is complete to think about photography. Capture clear ‘before’ images, so you have a visual record of the transformation to accompany your finished project shots.
Think about the images that best represent your business. If you have a retail store or showroom, make sure the space is clean and clutter-free. Think about your team too. Professional photographs of your staff at work can help showcase the people and personality behind the business.
Considering entering yourself or a member of your team into a people category? Think about what best represents the person entering and their role. Take them outside, photograph them beside a completed pool or spa, meet them on site or choose another setting that feels relevant and authentic to what they do in your business. While you have the photographer there, capture a few different options: individual portraits, team photographs, workplace images, and photos out in the field. Having a variety of images ready gives you more options when it comes time to put your entry together. Book early, plan your shoot and give your photographer plenty to capture.
The SPASA Awards of Excellence are continuing to evolve. We’ve listened to your feedback and in 2027 more changes are being made that we think will better reflect our industry and allow members to showcase their achievements. Watch this space as we reveal what’s coming for 2027. Have a question? Speak to Jamie Smith at [email protected].
