Here's how you can enhance the client experience in photography through creativity.

One thing I have found helpful when photographing families, is engaging the kids. I try to bring bubbles, chalk, or something that might interest them depending on their age. This does two things. One it keeps the kids involved, giving them something to do and hopefully not feeling bored. Two, it puts the parents at ease. The parents have to worry less about keeping the kids occupied and paying attention to the camera. Content kids make happy parents, and those things make photo day go more smoothly for the family.

I strongly believe that meeting in advance (in person) with the client is critical. This allows you to go through photography styles, wardrobe, hair, and makeup style selections. During this time, you can find common points of interest and truly understand what the client wants from the photoshoot, as well as their purposes for the photos. Exploring all aspects thoroughly ensures that both you and the client are prepared for the shoot, leading to a smoother experience and better outcomes. This preparation helps in crafting a session that is tailored to their personal story and preferences, ultimately enhancing the overall client experience.

In addition to props and settings, lens selection and light design are critical aspects that dramatically influence the final results. The right lens can create various perspectives and depths, enhancing the storytelling aspect of the shoot. Similarly, thoughtful light design can evoke different moods and highlight specific elements within the frame, adding a unique dimension to the photos. By carefully selecting lenses and designing the lighting, you can achieve dramatically different results even with the same props or backdrops, making each shoot distinct and tailored to the client’s narrative.

When it comes to post-production magic, the quality of the initial shoot is paramount. Ensuring that elements such as wardrobe, makeup, facial expressions, and the proper use of gear—like lenses, lighting, props, and backdrops—are all on point will save a significant amount of time and effort in post-production. This meticulous preparation allows you to focus on enhancing the results rather than fixing mistakes. By getting these elements right during the shoot, you can spend more time in post-production bringing out the best in each image. Enhancements such as fine-tuning colors, adjusting contrasts, and adding special effects become the primary focus, allowing you to elevate the final photos to a polished level.

When considering what else to keep in mind during a photoshoot, it's crucial to recognize that people envision different things when they hear the same words. Just as different images come to mind for different individuals, what one person finds attractive may not appeal to another. Understanding exactly what everyone expects and documenting it in writing is essential. Clear communication about expectations ensures that clients are happy with the results and helps protect you from misunderstandings that might arise. Take the time to discuss and document the client's vision, preferences, and any specific requests they have. This thorough understanding and agreement on the shoot's details will contribute to more satisfactory outcomes.