Photography is a field where art meets anxiety, isn’t it? One minute you’re capturing life’s magic, the next, a cranky client or wonky equipment is ruining the vibe. So, how do pros keep their cool (and their clients happy)? That’s where photography etiquette comes in – the unsung hero of stress-free shoots.
In this blog post, we discuss top tips that make or break relationships with clients in the photography business. Think communication secrets, boundary-setting, and various strategic moves. We’re sharing the good, the bad, and the “OMG, don’t do that!” stories to help you ace your next gig. Grab your camera, and let’s dive in!
List of Dos
1. Get Your Clients Relaxed
Imagine walking into a photoshoot with a couple who’s already stressed from a traffic jam, and you’re expecting them to magically relax in front of the camera. Not gonna happen! That’s why you need “The Coffee Moment” – a pre-shoot ritual that’s pure gold.
We learnt this trick the hard way with Don and Helen, an amazing couple we worked with on a beach wedding shoot. They arrived flustered, stuck in traffic and worried they’d ruined the whole thing.
But over a casual coffee, we chatted about everything except photography – their travels, favorite foods, and even our shared love of bad jokes. By the time we picked up our cameras, they were laughing and relaxed.
This “Coffee Moment” isn’t just small talk over a cup of coffee; it’s about building trust and rapport. You’re showing your clients you care about them, not just the shot.
Ask about their expectations, share your vision, and make them feel at ease. It’s astonishing how a simple conversation can transform awkward poses into natural, gorgeous moments.
So, what to do here is “GET YOUR CLIENT RELAXED” and don’t rush into “EPIC IMAGE” mode just yet! Take a deep breath, grab a coffee, and warm up those cameras – and your clients.
The first 100 shots might be throwaways, but they’re essential for breaking the ice and setting the tone for an unforgettable shoot. Remember, relaxed clients = stunning photos.
2. Use Communication
Getting your clients relaxed is important for good communication. We’ve all seen those stiff, awkward photoshoots where everyone looks like they’d rather be anywhere else. Don’t let that be you! Mix those photoshoots with communication and a dash of playfulness.
Take Maria and Alex, a lovely couple we worked with on a sunset beach shoot. Instead of barking orders, we gave them a simple script: “Show us your love through touch and gestures, no words needed.”
Their faces lit up, and they relaxed into the moment. As they swayed to the ocean breeze, their laughter and whispers created authentic, magical moments.
But here’s the thing: it’s not just about capturing that perfect shot – it’s about crafting an unforgettable experience.
Are your clients having fun? Do they feel at ease? Check their faces; you’ll know. Don’t be afraid to crack jokes, make mistakes, or try again. Patience and playfulness are key.
So, ditch the rigid commands and stern expressions. Replace them with freedom, laughter, and connection.
Give your clients a script, not a to-do list. Ask yourself: “Are they smiling? Are they themselves?” When the answer is yes, you’ll capture something truly special – and create memories that last far beyond the click of the shutter.
3. Point Out Errors
Effective communication with your clients involves pointing out stray hairs, dust, or blemishes during sessions. Addressing these issues promptly saves hours in post processing time.
Most photographers have shared similar experiences on how neglecting to mention imperfections during shoots has always led to regret.
Be polite and assertive when communicating with clients. Say something like, “Excuse me, you have a stray hair on your cheek” or “There’s a spot of dirt on your shoulder.” Clients appreciate attention to detail and will thank you for it.
We’ve never had a client get upset or offended when an imperfection is pointed out. Instead, they valued the watchful eye. Remember, speaking up saves time and ensures seamless photo editing, reflecting positively on your professionalism.
4. Know Your Client
Another reason why good communication is important, is because that’s the only way you can know your client.
We learnt this lesson with Sofia and Alex, a lovely couple who wanted a traditional, posed wedding album. Problem was, our style is photo journalistic storytelling.
We politely declined, recommending a colleague who’d be a better fit. This tough decision was wise. You can’t meet expectations if your styles clash.
Define your vision, and don’t be afraid to say no to mismatched clients. This ensures a harmonious collaboration and stunning results.
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5. Prepare Yourself
One good aspect with knowing clients is that it helps you prepare yourself for the job at hand. For example, Romanian weddings can be marathon-length – 16 hours, finishing at 4 am! To survive, hydrate extensively (2-3 liters of water) and sleep well 3-4 days beforehand.
Physical prep is crucial; Some pro photographers walk or bike 5-6 km daily to build endurance. Also, it helps to have some snacks on the job, such as bananas and protein bars, as meals might be scarce. These basics are easy to overlook, especially for new photographers.
Also, remember to pack a survival kit. A well-stocked kit often saves the day. Medicines (allergy, headaches, stomach), mouthwash, deodorant, napkins, hair pomade, and a comb are essentials.
Don’t forget spare batteries, duct tape, elastics, and velcro for unexpected creative solutions. And, of course, a raincoat and spare shirt – you never know!
6. Mastery of Light
Another reason preparation is important when dealing with clients is because it helps you handle unique challenges, such as mastering of light. This is tricky when you’re racing against time to capture the perfect shot, only to be foiled by harsh shadows or fading light. So, mastering light is crucial.
Take Maria and Alex’s sunset beach wedding, for instance. We anticipated the golden hour’s fleeting magic and adjusted our ISO accordingly. By balancing shadows and sunny spots, using flash and reflectors as needed, we created breathtaking, ethereal moments.
Don’t let poor lighting sabotage your vision. Scout locations, anticipate light conditions, and adapt with the right gear. Your clients will thank you.
7. Have a Backup
Imagine the horror of equipment failure when you’ve mastered the lighting of a once-in-a-lifetime shot! That’s why having a backup plan is essential. We learned this lesson the hard way at Sofia’s wedding, when a sudden rainstorm threatened to ruin the outdoor ceremony.
With our trusty backup gear – spare cameras, lenses, batteries, and memory cards – we saved the day. Don’t risk losing precious moments. Invest in reliable backups, test them regularly, and breathe easy knowing you’re prepared for anything. Your clients’ smiles (and your sanity) will appreciate it.
8. Confidently Price Your Worth
If you’re a professional photographer with backup gear and mastery that has earned you the respect of your clients, you’ve likely faced requests for discounts, sweetheart deals, or lowered prices.
Initially, you might feel obligated to accommodate clients or be apologetic about your rates. But remember, your worth isn’t negotiable. You are worth your price. If clients want your best work, they should pay for it.
Politely decline discount requests, emphasizing your competitive prices and commitment to quality. Avoid apologetic language, especially “I’m sorry” when discussing prices. You have nothing to apologize for.
Lowering prices can have long-term consequences: clients expect future discounts, word spreads, attracting bargain hunters, and your professional image suffers.
Therefore with these DOs, you’ll master the art of professional photography etiquette.
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List of Don’ts
1. Don’t Get Caught in Controversy
Your role is to capture joy, not spark controversy. Steer clear of sensitive topics like politics, football, or religion. Instead, master the art of gentle humor to put your clients at ease.
At Don and Helena’s wedding, a photographer of ours learnt the hard way that discussing politics can derail the mood. A harmless comment sparked a heated debate, making everyone uncomfortable. So, it’s important stick to lighthearted jokes to break the ice.
2. Don’t Be Afraid to Take Charge
Confidently and respectfully directing your clients is crucial to capturing breathtaking images. Machiavelli’s timeless wisdom applies perfectly: “He who wishes to be obeyed must know how to command.”
Asserting your creative vision ensures professionalism and yields exceptional results.
A prime example is Don and Helena’s wedding, where firmly guiding the bridal party was essential. To capture the perfect shot, we provided clear direction, positioning, and timing. The bridal party appreciated our expertise, and the outcome was stunning.
3. Don’t Overdirect or Interfere
While guiding your clients during a session, it’s important to strike a balance between direction and spontaneity. Resist the urge to script every moment, and allow the day to unfold naturally. This approach captures authentic, unposed moments that truly tell the story of your clients’ special day.
At Don and Helena’s wedding, we embraced this philosophy, letting the day’s events unfold organically. By doing so, we captured genuine laughter, tears, and interactions that would have been lost with a rigid shot list.
4. Don’t Fight the Light
Mastering photography etiquette involves optimizing lighting to capture breathtaking images. Embracing natural light is essential, especially in indoor settings. Adjust your ISO accordingly to harness this soft, flattering illumination.
At a recent indoor wedding, we resisted the temptation to modify natural light with artificial sources. Instead, we positioned the bride near windows, allowing the soft glow to beautifully illuminate her face.
This approach:
- Enhanced her features without harsh shadows
- Created a warm, inviting atmosphere
- Showcased the venue’s natural beauty
5. Don’t Get Lost in the Background
Mastering photography etiquette involves considering your attire’s impact on the event. Ditch the all-black attire, which can appear too formal or somber, confuse guests who may mistake you for event staff or limit your ability to connect with clients. Instead, wear comfortable, versatile clothing that allows you to move freely.
6. Don’t Show Negative Emotions
Even if you are new to a location and didn’t have time to check it out prior to the big day, even if you’ve just had a fight with your spouse, be responsible and professional.
Your clients’ wedding is a unique unrepeatable day, it’s about them, not you – so put a big smile on your face and be the best at what you do!
Conclusion
In the world of photography, practices, techniques, and work processes vary greatly from one photographer to another, influenced by factors such as location, culture, and client personality.
However, one fundamental principle stands out: the wedding or photo shoot is never about the photographer – it’s about the people in front of the lens. To deliver exceptional results, prioritize your clients’ happiness, relaxation, and comfort around you and the camera.
What strategies will you employ to make your clients feel at ease and valued during their next photography session?
