The Difference Between Taking Pictures and Being a Photographer

Almost anyone can push a shutter down. Being a photographer requires more. People skills are crucial and need to be appropriate to the context of the shoot. The ‘art’ of photography requires skill and talent to take beautiful, exciting, attention grabbing pictures. The ‘business’ of photography requires people skills. If your people skills are lacking, your business will suffer.

An important people skill is facilitating a sense of comfort and relaxation in the client. Part of your goal is to have a long list of return clients. Feeling comfortable with you is good insurance for their return in the future. If they feel uncomfortable in any way, you could lose their business for life.

Some People Skills Suggestions for Photographers:

1. Maintain Eye Contact: Eye contact with a smile communicates acceptance and trust. Get out from behind the tripod and make eye contact with your client.

2. ChatterBox: Keep dialog going with your client throughout the entire session. Make conversation, offer compliments, instruct him in his position; help her feel like she is talking to her best friend, someone she has known for a long time.

3. Natural vs Posed: Natural, unposed pictures are treasures! This is especially true for pictures of children. Fidgety and playful children present a challenge to the photographer who wants a posed picture. Our advice is to let them just be themselves. You can capture some wonderful and beautiful pictures of a child dancing, playing with a stuffed animal, dressing up in play clothes, and more.

4. Keep it Honest: Your client might want a picture of himself or herself with a smile, but they might look more natural with a frown. Keeping your pictures and clients honest will result in better pictures.

So, remember that having good people skills as a photographer can really make a difference in your photography business. Keep good eye contact, keep a good conversation going, allow your clients to be themselves, and keep it honest and natural.

Be sure to visit Mandarich Photography at www.mandarichphotography.com for more great photography tips!!