The simplest things can have the biggest impact. That's true with custom photography.
This kind of art allows a family to tailor their photo sessions to their needs, wants and personal style. A good photographer should be able to see your vision and take it to the next level, but there are a few things clients can do to help out.
1. Stick to the schedule
This is the most important tip I can offer clients. Photographers create schedules based upon the availability of all people involved in the session, driving time and -- most importantly -- good lighting. While I usually incorporate wiggle room for bad traffic or a fussy baby, sticking to the schedule is a must. Ideally, all parties involved should be dressed with their hair done and (if applicable) makeup on, baby bags packed and second clothing options at the ready by or before the agreed upon start time.
2. Relax--Get your play list on!
For some people, being in front of a camera can be really intimidating. You might feel like you’re being pressured to perform, or just feel uncomfortable being in the spotlight. I often tell my clients to pretend I’m not even there, but sometimes relaxing is easier said than done. That’s why I recommend that you spend some time before the day of your session to come up with a play list of your favorite songs. Good, groovy music allows you to let your guard down, lose that tenseness in your shoulders and be more spontaneous. Have kids? Great! Create a playlist for them, too!
This kind of art allows a family to tailor their photo sessions to their needs, wants and personal style. A good photographer should be able to see your vision and take it to the next level, but there are a few things clients can do to help out.
1. Stick to the schedule
This is the most important tip I can offer clients. Photographers create schedules based upon the availability of all people involved in the session, driving time and -- most importantly -- good lighting. While I usually incorporate wiggle room for bad traffic or a fussy baby, sticking to the schedule is a must. Ideally, all parties involved should be dressed with their hair done and (if applicable) makeup on, baby bags packed and second clothing options at the ready by or before the agreed upon start time.
2. Relax--Get your play list on!
For some people, being in front of a camera can be really intimidating. You might feel like you’re being pressured to perform, or just feel uncomfortable being in the spotlight. I often tell my clients to pretend I’m not even there, but sometimes relaxing is easier said than done. That’s why I recommend that you spend some time before the day of your session to come up with a play list of your favorite songs. Good, groovy music allows you to let your guard down, lose that tenseness in your shoulders and be more spontaneous. Have kids? Great! Create a playlist for them, too!
3. Unplug
I know. I get it. We're all tied to our phones these days. But as much as we love them, they can be a photographer's worst nightmare. For starters, communication between a photographer and client is vital during a photoshoot. That means there should be as few distractions as possible. And second--well, just look at the image below! During photo sessions, phones should be put away. As in away, away. Seeing the rigid, square outline in someone’s pocket can make a beautiful photo is cringeworthy. While Photoshop can take care of this blunder some of the time, its best not to have to deal with it from the get go.
I know. I get it. We're all tied to our phones these days. But as much as we love them, they can be a photographer's worst nightmare. For starters, communication between a photographer and client is vital during a photoshoot. That means there should be as few distractions as possible. And second--well, just look at the image below! During photo sessions, phones should be put away. As in away, away. Seeing the rigid, square outline in someone’s pocket can make a beautiful photo is cringeworthy. While Photoshop can take care of this blunder some of the time, its best not to have to deal with it from the get go.
In the words of Zaneeta Shinn, Egads!
4. Have the lint roller handy
Even if you don't have pets, it's a good idea to use a lint roller before coming to the session, especially if your clothing tends to attract other fibers. I also usually have a lint roller handy just in case.
5. Just be yourself
Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Whether you're silly, serious, spontaneous, funky or fun, I want to capture the best of you.
The same goes for clothing. Wear something that makes you feel fabulous. The best part? You get to decide what fabulous means.
Have kids? The same rules apply. If you prefer that your kiddos be dressed in their Sunday best, great! But don't be afraid to let your kids be themselves, either. Sometimes letting your son or daughter wear their favorite shirt, hat or pair of sunglasses allows them to relax, which means I'll have the opportunity to capture who they really are.
Even if you don't have pets, it's a good idea to use a lint roller before coming to the session, especially if your clothing tends to attract other fibers. I also usually have a lint roller handy just in case.
5. Just be yourself
Don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. Whether you're silly, serious, spontaneous, funky or fun, I want to capture the best of you.
The same goes for clothing. Wear something that makes you feel fabulous. The best part? You get to decide what fabulous means.
Have kids? The same rules apply. If you prefer that your kiddos be dressed in their Sunday best, great! But don't be afraid to let your kids be themselves, either. Sometimes letting your son or daughter wear their favorite shirt, hat or pair of sunglasses allows them to relax, which means I'll have the opportunity to capture who they really are.
Yeah!
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