Relaxed Clients
Monday, October 12th 2009 @ 9:18 AM (not yet rated)
Many people are uncomfortable in front of a camera. OK, that’s putting it mildly. Many people are stiff & terrified in front of a camera. How do we, as photographers, help our clients to RELAX? We’ve talked about this before, but I thought it merited a revisit, because our client’s attitudes make all the difference between an awkward & a great image.
First, don’t launch right into the session. Instead, sit and talk with them about anything EXCEPT the looming photography session. The weather, sports teams, their plans for the weekend – find something to chat with them about. This serves two purposes: 1) They start seeing you as a person they can identify with and trust, and 2) It gives them a focus other than the session, so they can start to relax. Besides, I’m always interested in getting to know the people who commission me. The more I know about them, the better I’ll be able to capture their unique spirit.
Second, I give them posing tips. I show women ‘the secret way to always look great’:
- Stand sideways to the camera.
- With the foot closest to the camera, take a step toward the camera.
- Shift weight onto that foot.
- Turn the torso toward the camera (without moving the feet.)
- Relax the shoulders.
Voila! A nice curve and a flattering look. Do they stand this way for every image? Of course not. But now they feel they have some knowledge about how to look good in front of a camera. This results in a more confident (and therefore relaxed) client.
For men, I have them adopt a ¾ stance toward the camera. I make sure their shoulders are square to the camera, to be as broad as possible. This is covered more fully in my article Masculine Men.
Third, I make sure that I AM RELAXED! If I’m tense, it will definitely translate to my clients. I prepare ahead of time, so that I’m not stressed about equipment, lighting, etc. If I’m photographing in a new location, I arrive early to scope it out.
Lastly, I am light-hearted and joking throughout the session. I want a light mood, even in a serious session. I don’t have any problem (usually) getting a client to be serious. It’s easier to get a client to soften into a more serious mood than it is to pull someone up into a happier, relaxed one.
So here are four quick tips to helping a client relax. To summarize:
- Talk with your clients - get to know their interests.
- Give them confidence by showing them how to look their best in front of a camera.
- Be prepared.
- Be light-hearted and fun.
