You experience growth while working with different photographers. I wanted to give back to each of the following creatives in my post. I’m a huge believer of lifting up others by showcasing their talent whenever possible.
Working with the right photographer can be rewarding. This is how I came to the decision in working with Smile Nation Photography. The bonus is that I got two photographers Sherry and Lisa. They were wonderful for my first photo shoot.
Communication is Key
A little backstory on me and why I was apprehensive about getting my photo taken. After having the residual effects of Bell’s Palsy I was self-conscious. For 14 years I had not been comfortable smiling. It wasn’t until 2014 that I found a treatment that helped me.
It was important for me to share this with each photographer. By letting them know from the get-go. Any time that someone asked me to smile big made me cringe.
Communicating your concerns with your photographer helps. It gives them the heads up and an opportunity to help you in return. That is a win in my book.
My first shoot was in the summer of 2016. Sherry made sure to stop me at the beginning after a few photos. She showed me what I looked like in her camera. It was my first time getting my makeup done too. I was a bundle of nerves, and she sensed that.
Certainly, I didn’t want to look weird or ugly. After I looked at my images I was able to relax and continue with the shoot. If she wouldn’t have shared that with me I wouldn’t have known. It made me happy and I felt beautiful.
I felt speechless and grateful at the same time. Using the extra accessories made part of it whimsical. They shared what they had and why it would be fun to use.
Preparation Ensures Success
One of the things that helped me was to figure out what I would wear. I did this with all of my photo shoots. It also helped to determine where each shoot would take place.
Next, in 2017 I decided to work with Edward Wright of WrightDesign75. I found out about him through Instagram and knew he would be the next one. I was planning for my first blog anniversary and wanted a vintage shoot.
Choosing the right look
It was important to share what I would wear and what I wanted. Edward understood and also helped secure a makeup artist too. That was so helpful for me.
I shared my story with him and we ended up having a fun time. He was able to make me laugh and make me feel at ease too. Towards the end, I was taking pics in my jeans. I loved it!
The time that I collaborated with Tree Runner Adventure Park was when I knew that Linda Mendible was my choice. I needed someone that could capture the fun and also be my cheerleader. Did I mention that I was afraid of heights?
She was my saving grace and because of her, I didn’t quit. I finished it and she took some awesome photos.
Cassie of Moments Granted Studios, I’ve had the pleasure of working with on a couple of occasions. The first time was at a workshop for some amazing headshots in 2017. The second was when she offered a very cool mini session in Raleigh in 2018.
After that, I met Smith Hardy. He was so personable and even caught me laughing for one of my shots. Mini sessions are a great way to establish relationships. Who knew that I’d end up loving that one.
All my photographers have known my backstory. It’s been an important part of my journey as a writer. Little have they known the value that they have brought to my life.
Last but not least are Nikki and Samantha of Fancy This Photography. This mini session happened in 2019 and was a blast! I loved their style and their props. It was a joy meeting them and getting my photos done with such great ladies.
You Experience Variety
Working with different photographers have given me variety. I get to work with very talented people. Each of them has brought something to the table.
They have shared helpful insight into what makes a shot. I’ve learned how to pose and not force a pose. It taught me how to have fun during a session.
Consider working with different people. I enjoy it because I am also creating relationships and friendships with mine. It builds trust too.
Think of the type of photo shoot that you would like to try. It doesn’t always have to be traditional. Thinking out of the box makes for fun times.
For example, Nikki of Fancy This Photography offered Boudoir sessions recently. I was interested in doing that photo shoot, but wasn’t able to at this time.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes we hear a term like “boudoir” and think it isn’t for us. How do you know if you don’t ask though?
You would be surprised at how classy these sessions are. Opt for doing things in good taste. It is up to you to find out what is best for you.
Create a dream list for the future
It would not be fair to leave out a couple of my favorite photographers on Instagram. Amy Boyle is based out of Chicago and is working on her 52 Phenomenal Women project. I am hoping to be a part of that. Creating a dream list keeps you inspired.
John A. Demato is another photographer that I would enjoy working with someday. He takes some fantastic photos. Often you will see him working in New York. However, he has been known to travel. On top of that, he also writes some great content.
He educates his clients on how to leverage their photos. His tips are big when it comes to making your brand work for you. I love his work too.
Be Willing to Travel
So far my photo shoots have been in the state of North Carolina. Being a writer with a day job is part of my reason for staying local. I hope to one day afford an out of state session. One can dream, right? It’s important for me to keep reaching higher with my talents.
Part of that journey is being a light for those that have done that for me. That is why it has brought me joy to share these awesome talented creatives with you.
I am thankful for each of them. My story is evolving with each passing year. That is the beauty of creating as I go. I hope to connect again with each of the photographers that I’ve mentioned.
I invite you to visit their work and see for yourself. In the meantime, I will continue planning for my next opportunity in front of the lens.
What about you, are you ready?