Being photographed is out of the comfort zone for most people. How is that with you?
Do you love to be photographed or are you dreading it so much that you haven’t had a photo session since… forever?
I get the hesitation.
Usually what helps make someone feel more comfortable during a photo session is showing them the photos I’ve already taken.
But actually, I rarely ever do that and here’s why…
Why I won’t show you the back of my camera
When you book me for your Personal Branding photo shoot, we probably had at least one call or meeting to talk about your business, your offers, your audience and what you’d like these photos to look and feel like in the end.
Chances are, I have a pretty good understanding of what it is you need. It’s very important that we’re on the same page and you trust me to do my job.
What I really want you to do during your session is focus on yourself and your work. On your thoughts and feelings.
Depending on where we are, we might have some music playing to calm your nerves or lift your mood. Ideally, I’d want you to forget that I’m photographing you – because the act of being photographed can feel so intimidating.
If we constantly interrupted the flow of your session, we’ll risk you being super conscious of what you look like through my lens.
Again, I want you to trust that I get the images you want and need. I will make adjustments to the situation, the room, your posture if it’s needed. While I pose only gently throughout a portrait, headshot or branding session, there are ways to make sure you look your best with minimal instructions from me to you.
Every time I stop to show you an image, you might get more nervous and uncomfortable because you might find things that aren’t perfect.
Well, let me break it to you… Your photos won’t be perfect because that’s impossible.
Your photos can still be beautiful and authentic – so much that you’ll love the final outcome.
Now, let me assure you that if you had a specific image in mind you want or need and we’ll have to double check whether what I captured in my camera fits that, we absolutely CAN look through the images while we’re still shooting.
And if checking the images will make you feel calmer and more confident, I will definitely show you what we’ve created so far.I’m not gatekeeping these photos but I prefer to make sure you focus on yourself and let me do the hard work.
So, the question is… Do you trust me to get the images you need?
I won’t be offended if you want to see the photos before we’re done but you’ll have to ask me for it and I’ll happily oblige.
That’s another thing for another day:
Before the shoot is the best time to speak about your worries and tell what you want.
During your shoot is the second-best time.
After the shoot is too late. Communication is key!
So how do you feel about not seeing your images until your gallery is done and delivered to you? Is that something you’re ok with or not?
Whether you’ll work with me to create photographs for your business or another photographer, have a think about it and mention it to the person you’ll be working with!
