There is nothing that Jason and I love more than a perfectly timed candid that we were able to capture! With each of our sessions we shoot, we strive to give a good mix of both portraits and candids. We like to try and shoot two different areas at a location to give another look and switch it up. But with each session, we will plan accordingly so our clients get that personal and unique touch!
We always try to take the clients’ style, the look they are going for and why their reasoning for wanting to book a session in the first place into consideration before even choosing a location. This preparation not only tailors to each client and gives them some freedom to make decisions while also giving your professional input, but it ultimately keeps them from getting the cookie cutter photos at the same location or the same studio with all the SAME backdrops.
Some photographers don’t like the idea of recreating photos they’ve already seen before, which is okay! But in the midst of planning their session, I personally like for clients to share ideas they’ve seen from our work (Pinterest is pretty good with this too!) or certain poses that they like. Even as a photographer, we have our own creative eye but that doesn’t mean that your client can’t assist in inspiration and give some ideas that they really love and you throw your creative twist on it. Ultimately, Jason and I want our clients to be happy with the photos that are received and sending ideas my way gives me a great idea of what they like or what they like most about our style. Of course, the best is when a client sends you an idea and you exceed it a million times over while maintaining their vision, then delivering an incredible image that they never thought could turn out so beautiful!
Now, this is the only issue (and I say issue so very lightly) when it comes to sending those Pinterest ideas - expectations. It’s difficult when a Mom sends this adorable and perfectly timed photo of Dad kissing Moms’ belly while their oldest is sitting perfectly on Dad’s shoulders and is kissing Mom’s cheek while also grinning ear to ear to me that she had found. It’s not that it isn’t an adorable pose, but those poses (and looks) can be tricky! Sometimes come the day of the session, there’s a lot going on and sometimes kids just don’t want to cooperate or it turns out their fear of heights became a huge realization when they are high on their dads shoulders. That’s okay! Sometimes a good bribe works if their old enough or finding/doing anything to get that shot. But, it’s super important that you reel in those expectations before even shooting that day. Most clients are totally understanding that it may not be a true realization, but being prepared could really help with all the above while still providing some amazing images that are truly their own!
Which again brings me back to just preparing for the shoot with a few helpful tips. If you know there are little ones involved, be sure the time you set isn’t disruptive to their nap routine or dinner time. If it looks like it’s going to be extremely hot and humid that day, possibly offer to reschedule or at the very least be sure to bring hydration for everyone and minimize all the walking. We have found all of our clients truly appreciate thinking of their needs before they even have a chance to think about it and it makes their whole experience much more enjoyable and in turn, will surely help give you great sessions with beautiful images that your clients will love while they also enjoy their experience with you!