Do you have the eye to be a photographer?
The make of a good photographer is mostly about having a creative eye. From catching the moment, to applying attention to detail by understanding the instruction of the client brief, however challenging the job.
Not all clients are easy, in fact sometimes very difficult, as they themselves are not actually sure what they want at the end of the day. This is where the photographer will need to step in to take control, so that there is transparency and commitment to what is expected from the client on handover. Ensure that you have the ability to deliver. Do not apply your personal taste and preference in the execution of the photo shoot. It is about the clients’ request. Be able to make a dull product look interesting and pop if needs be, alternatively, take a trending product that pops and make it look dull, if that is what the client is wanting.
Composition is a key factor when dealing with proportion, as it affects the look, the feel and mood of product or subject you are shooting. Again, apply your knowledge to your choice of lens, your focal distances and aperture. These factors will make a huge impact on the end result to ensure the client will be satisfied with your services.
In conclusion, it is vital to be in position of using the correct lenses and making sure that you understand all the features and operations of your camera to ensure that this is achieved. You cannot fix a bad image after the photo shoot; it simply does not work.
Understanding and using light correctly, (natural, daylight, controlled or indoor light), goes hand in hand with your quality and outcome of each image that is captured. A poor understanding and incorrect usage of light will make things really difficult. If the image is not properly lit, the look and feel will not be achieved, quality will also be compromised, as you will have noise on all your images. This cannot be fixed in post – production and editing. Remember the more you edit an image, the more the quality is compromised… not a good idea to over edit.
Just to be clear, having an eye and a full understanding of the above, are the basic essentials to move forward in this career. My suggestion is that if you are unsure about your knowledge or your confidence in achieving the above, consider attending a short workshop or course, which in the long term, is an investment for very little money. It can make or break you, start off on the right foot.
Doing your homework in preparing for a photoshoot
Once you have the quotation approved and signed off, the next step is to prepare for the shoot. Understand the brief to the last small detail.
Making use of references for the purpose of styling, set up, lighting and location. The photographer needs to be in control and co-ordinate the shoot from start to finish, to ensure successful execution. Understanding lighting setups are key to executing a successful phootshoot.
Practice, along with trial and error, will ensure that positive results are achieved. Only after you have planned the shoot properly, set a time and a date for the shoot, can you relax, clear your mind of unnecessary hiccups and focus on the photography.
Finally, you need to do a checklist. The day before the shoot, make sure you have all your camera gear packed and all batteries fully charged, along with extra memory cards and anything else you might require for the shoot such as lighting and reflectors, and if necessary, a qualified and reliable assistant. Know you are basically ready.
Make the client feel like a “King”
Your communication with the client is as important as your communication with your team. Treat the client with utmost respect and patience, however they come across. Clients like to be nurtured and made to feel important. This will also apply to your team, as well as to the model or characters if this be the case. Politeness along with professional behavior, through to handover in the final stage will secure future client business and strong working relationship. As the cliché goes… “the client always comes first”, although not always right, makes them feel like they in charge.
Should you require any practical training, please let us know. That is my take on being a successful photographer, not much to consider, other than the vital pointers above. All the best and believe in yourself.
