Request for Proposal (RFP)

Photographer Services for the St. Pete MLK Parade

Theme: The Power of a Dream

Hosted by: Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival Inc.

Event Date: Sunday, January 19, 2025

Location: St. Petersburg, Florida

Start Time: TBD

​

1. Introduction

The St. Pete MLK Parade, hosted by Tampa Bay Collard Green Festival Inc., is one of the nation’s largest MLK parades. This year’s theme, “The Power of a Dream,” reflects unity, leadership, and community pride.

​​

We are seeking proposals from professional photographers to provide comprehensive event photography services that capture the spirit of the parade, including candid community moments, parade floats, VIP stage programming, sponsor activations, and performances.

​

2. Scope of Work

• Parade Coverage

• Capture key moments from parade start, middle, and end.

• Wide-angle shots of crowds and floats, plus detail shots.

• VIP & Stage Coverage

• Photograph speeches, entertainment acts, and dignitaries.

• Candid Community Photography

• Document spectators, families, volunteers, and participants.

• Sponsor & Branding Coverage

• Capture sponsor signage, logos, and activations for marketing use.

• Drone Photography (Optional)

• If available, vendor may propose FAA-compliant aerial photography.

• Deliverables

• High-resolution edited photos (minimum 200–300 images).

• Online gallery for easy access and sharing.

• Final delivery within 7–10 business days post-event.

​

3. Technical Requirements

• Professional-level DSLR/mirrorless cameras and lenses.

• Ability to shoot in varying lighting conditions (daytime, stage lighting).

• Backup equipment (cameras, batteries, lenses, memory cards).

• If offering drone photography, FAA certification and insurance are required.

​

4. Vendor Responsibilities

• Provide all necessary equipment and staff.

• Attend pre-event walkthrough (if required).

• Coordinate with parade organizers for access and positioning.

• Deliver edited photos by agreed-upon deadline.

​

​5. Proposal Submission Requirements

• Company profile and relevant event photography experience.

• Portfolio samples (links to previous parade, festival, or live event work).

• List of equipment and technical approach.

• Staffing plan (number of photographers/assistants).

• Line-item budget (photographer fees, assistants, drone, post-production).

• Proof of insurance.

• References from previous clients.

​​​

​

6. Evaluation Criteria

• Demonstrated experience with large-scale events.

• Quality and style of portfolio.

• Budget transparency and cost-effectiveness.

• Ability to deliver on deadlines.

• Creativity and added value (e.g., highlight albums, sponsor-specific shots).