Capturing beautiful portraits is a collaborative effort between photographers and their clients. To help you make the most of your portrait session and ensure stunning results, here are eight things photographers often wish their clients knew beforehand:
Communication is Key: Open and clear communication between you and your photographer is crucial. Share your expectations, preferences, and any specific ideas or themes you have in mind. Discussing these details in advance allows your photographer to plan accordingly and create a personalized experience. This is one of the reasons why a pre-shoot consultation can be helpful. It gives everyone the chance to break the ice and get more familiar.
Timing Matters: Arriving on time or even a few minutes early for your session is greatly appreciated. This ensures that you have sufficient time for your session without feeling rushed. Sometimes unforeseen circumstances may arise that could cause slight delays or changes in the session schedule. By arriving on time, you provide flexibility to accommodate any unexpected situations without compromising the overall session. This allows for a smoother and more adaptable experience for everyone involved.
Relax and Be Yourself: Authenticity shines through in portraits. It's natural to feel a bit nervous or self-conscious in front of the camera, but try to relax and be yourself. Trust your photographer's expertise in capturing your best angles and expressions. And you're more likely to enjoy your session if you're being yourself.
Dress To Express Your Style: Choose clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Also, consider your location and the mood you want to convey in the photos. Feel free to express your personal style and wear outfits that reflect your personality.
Consider Makeup and Hair: Professional makeup and hairstyling can enhance your appearance and give you a polished look. If you're considering these services, plan them well in advance and arrive with your hair and makeup done as desired. Or coordinate a creative team or stylist with your photographer - often times they have makeup artists and stylists they enjoy working with.
Trust the Professional: Photographers have a keen eye for composition, lighting, and posing. Trust their guidance and creative direction during the session. They will provide instructions on poses, angles, and how to make the most of the surroundings. Let go of any self-doubt and embrace their expertise.
Embrace The Experience: It's common to be nervous or have insecurities, but don't let them overshadow your confidence. Remember, professional photographers are skilled at capturing your best features and finding flattering angles. Embrace your unique qualities, and trust that the final images will showcase your beauty and personality.
Patience for Post-Processing: After the session, photographers dedicate time and effort to selecting and editing the best images. Editing is a meticulous process that ensures the final images meet their artistic vision. Be patient during this phase, as it may take some time before you receive the finalized images.
By keeping these insights in mind, you can contribute to a successful photo session and build a strong working relationship with your photographer.