Definitive Images Blog

Austin Texas portrait photography, Definitive Images, officially came into business August 2006. Since then, we have photographed A LOT of people.  We will do whatever necessary to ensure a good photo shoot and the easier it is for us, the better the outcome (in theroy, but  there have been several occasions where we have been faced with obstacles and the challenge of it somehow pushes a bit more “umph” into a shoot. Safest bet is easier equals better) Anyway, though we strive to make every single portrait shoot unique the fundamental approach is the same nearly every time. That being said, there are several very specific things that our clients can do to make the most of their photo shoot.

Here is the latest list of dos and don’ts and good bits of advice to make sure your photo shoot with Definitive Images is a successful one.

I. Common Sense

The photographer’s ability to portray you in the most flattering way has everything to do with how you present yourself. For all the lighting tricks, posing techniques, makeup artistry and Photoshop retouching in the world, you have to bring a good, healthy attitude and body to the shoot to produce the BEST images possible. That should mean several things but mainly that you should not arrive to your photo shoot:

• stressed or frantic
• bloated or on a full stomach
• tired or sleepy
• mean or unpleasant

Instead come with a positive attitude and a lot of energy. Professional portraits are a luxury purchase and investment so strive to make the absolute most of the money spent by presenting the best YOU at the start of your shoot. And even if you have the money to throw away by not making this effort, I can say honestly that I don’t want to just shoot if we are not striving for the same goal. That goal is to make photos that you will love and to have a great time doing it. So, that it has been stated and not just implied, prior to your shoot you should:

• take a chill pill, relax and be calm
• have a small meal or light snack
• get a good nights sleep
• …don’t be mean or unpleasant

II. Communication

We need to communicate everything openly. Let’s not assume and let’s not simply imply. Think about and be able to answer these questions when you are scheduling a photo shoot:

• What are these photos for? (yourself, Facebook, portfolio, family)
• What do I want for these photos to portray?
• What style or type of photo best suits my needs?
• What is my budget?

These answers should be personal and require some thought. Visual aids help out a lot for deciding on a concept for your photo shoot. I will usually pitch a theme and concept but it helps tremendously to have your input first. Photos, TV shows, movies, CD covers, magazines, etc. These can all serve as inspiration for your photo shoot. Send me links or photos or whatever, just try to get the point across and communicate.

• Communicate to me what you want to have emphasized, be it your smile, eyes, stomach, legs, or otherwise.
• Communicate the mood you want capture. fun and playful, dark and emotional, sensual and soft
• Communicate your own ideas for the shoot with regard to wardrobe, location, theme, style, etc SPEAK UP!

Also, the question about budget is an important one. The photo shoot itself is just one part of expenses. How many times are you going to have professional portraits made? Why not go all out and have your Mani Pedi, buy new clothes for the shoot , pamper yourself for the shoot in whatever way you see fit. And what about printing? I know many are interested in new photos for Facebook and Myspace, but consider a large 20×30″ print of your favorite photo as beautiful work of art to hang in your home. We can even provide framing and the sight is quite engaging. These things cost money so take them into account.

III. The 5 Ps

Proper Planning Produces Perfect Photos

NEVER will I have any photo shoot where it would be simply okay to show up and start shooting. Sure, we could do that but why not have a basis for producing the best photos we can. Here are some things to do to help you prepare for your photo shoot with Definitive Images:

• Practice looking your part. Spend 15-20 minutes the days before your photo shoot practicing facial expressions in the mirror at home. I usually direct the posing or sequences but nailing the perfect facial expression is hard work.
• Ask a lot of questions! Best way to get answers and be prepared.
• Selected wardrobe should look new (clean, ironed or steamed and on a hanger, not balled up in a bag)
• Groom yourself appropriately (wax, shave, brush, pluck, wash, rinse, repeat)
• Try on any clothes you may want to use for your shoot to be sure they fit properly.
• Pack matching shoes and accessories for wardrobe selections
• Always bring an alternative set of clothes. Just in case
• Make necessary arrangements for hair and makeup and be sure to bring your own makeup bag and hair tools as well
• IPOD or selection of music that can help get you energized or in the mood for the shoot

VI. Other Stuff

I find people absolutely fascinating. I want to know you and only through getting to you can there be anything genuine in a portrait. Believe it or not, I am just as nervous as you when we first meet and inquiring about you and listening to you helps me to get comfortable. It’s so funny that everyone’s life has always seemed infinitely more interesting than my own. It is truly in the conversation and rapport that I understand how to photograph you. Of course this applies more so when we are making a portrait than when we are going for a model type of photo but it’s still important. Now, the only reason I am writing any of this is so it can be made apparent that I desire to shoot REAL people. Leave the phony facade at the door and just feel free to be beautiful you. Pay attention to the next line, its the most important thing I’ve said so far: No matter how well lit, creatively composed, extensively thought out, eye catching, stylish or HOT a portrait may seem, if it lacks the human connection and a sense of personal intrigue it is instantly forgettable. Let’s connect and make a great portrait together. Show me your truest smile, your most genuine seductiveness, your most honest self and I will take care of the rest.

NONE of the above written materials may be reproduced, distributed or otherwise used without the expressed written consent of the author and photographer Christopher Ferguson.

© Christopher Ferguson