Top Ten Do's & Don'ts
for Portrait Photography
There are so many things to think about when photographing
people that we don't have the space for all I would want to say.
However, there are a few do’s and don'ts that might help
to keep you out of trouble and possibly improve your work and client
relationships.
In the studio, NEVER leave your lights set-up overnight.
The problem is that if you do, the last session of the day will look
a lot like the first session tomorrow. Is that what you want? If
so, fine. But if you advertise creativity, don't give everyone
the same session.
Don't look though your camera too long. This is
the situation. You are looking at your subject, maybe focusing, maybe
looking at your digital LCD numbers for aperture, shutter
speed or setting in the viewfinder, etc. Whatever you are doing,
they are just sitting there. Remember that once you connect with
your client, do not disconnect until the end of the shoot.
Don't be distracted by other family members or an
assistant. Again, the client is number one. Stay connected at all
costs. Make them feel like they are the most important thing going
on, not you.
Don't be unsure of your exposures or color balance.
Do all of your testing before your client is on set and project
professionalism. Remember, "if you project a sense of confidence,
they will project a sense of trust."
Don't underestimate your client's knowledge of things
digital. Our clients of today recognize that most professionals
are using digital. They also have in many cases, better scanners
and printers than some photographers. So be careful about not recognizing
what your client knows. Don't talk down to them about technology.
Do be truly creative with your sessions. Talk
to your clients. Really talk to them and find out about them, their
families, their past. Find out if you are working in their home what
is the most important room in the house, not the prettiest. What
are they most comfortable wearing, where do they spend family time
outside, etc. Give them a true portrait of them, not what you think
is a good portrait.
Always have your equipment ready to go. I am amazed
at how many photographers have low batteries when they start a
job, only to have to stop and change. Folks, be ready and take care
of your clients.
Do work as a team with your client. Guide them
to make the right purchase just like you will let them guide you
to make the right portrait.
When stuck on posing and lighting, always go back
to the basics. Go back to the first female or male pose you know
with basic lighting. From this your creativity will start up again.
Then you'll get on a roll.
Try shooting
with their eyes to the lens more. I see so many photographs where
people have their eyes going all over the studio. Try shooting
with their eyes right into the lens, smiling or not, the power
of this look is strong. If the head is turned slightly away from the
camera, then bring the eyes back to the lens.
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