My approach to family portrait photography and corporate gigs is very similar to my approach when working with artists. It’s so much more than just taking pictures. It’s about capturing the essence of a family’s unique story or the brand’s unique perspective. Whether you’re photographing high-profile clients like executives, athletes, celebrities, or everyday families; the approach must be tailored to the specific goals and emotions of the individuals involved. The key to creating memorable and meaningful portraits lies in understanding the message the client wants to convey and making them feel comfortable throughout the process.
The Importance of Understanding the Client
When it comes to family portrait photography, the first step is always to connect with the client on a personal level. Understanding who they are and how they feel is crucial. One of my favorite quotes from Maya Angelou is “…people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This truth is universal and particularly relevant in photography. The way a person feels during a photo shoot directly impacts the outcome. Whether I’m working with a high-powered CEO or a family wanting to create a lasting memory, I start by understanding the person behind the image.
Defining the Message
Every photograph tells a story, and it’s essential to define what that story is before the camera starts clicking. For instance, if a family comes to me for a portrait session, the first thing I ask is, “What is your family about? What’s going on in your lives right now?” This helps me understand the deeper significance behind the photo. For some families, the portrait might be a way to capture a moment with a terminally ill loved one, making the image deeply personal and private. For others, it could be about celebrating a joyous occasion or simply documenting the everyday love and connection within the family.
Tailoring the Photography Session
The approach to each photo shoot must be tailored to the client’s specific goals. Photographing a CEO for a corporate portrait is different from capturing a family memory. If I’m working with a CEO who leads a non-profit organization, the image needs to convey transparency, compassion, and commitment to the cause. On the other hand, a CEO of a for-profit company might want to project power and confidence. Even within the same person, the messaging can change depending on the context. The key is to adapt the photography style and direction to fit the intended message.
Creating a Comfortable Environment
I don’t have a “special sauce” but making clients feel at ease is perhaps the most critical aspect of my photography session. Many people feel uncomfortable in front of the camera so they end up in stiff and unnatural poses. To combat this, I tell my clients not to try to be models but to let me enter their world. By understanding their dynamics and comfort zones, I can help them relax and be themselves. This authenticity is what makes the difference between a posed, artificial image and a portrait that truly captures the spirit of the moment.
Using Storytelling Techniques
Photography is a powerful storytelling tool, and incorporating narrative elements into a photo shoot can greatly enhance the impact of the final images. By focusing on the small, meaningful details, like a shared laugh, a tender glance, or a comforting touch. I can create portraits that resonate on a deeper level. These are the images that families will cherish for years to come, not just because of how they look, but because of the memories and emotions they evoke.
Family portrait photography is about more than just taking pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of a family’s unique story. By understanding the client, defining the message, tailoring the session to their needs, creating a comfortable environment, and using storytelling techniques, photographers can create images that are both meaningful and enduring. The goal is to produce portraits that not only capture how the family looks today but also evoke the emotions and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.
