For a long time I was thinking about writing an article about love story (can be used for family photography too) preparations/process/expectations.
It could be helpful for my clients or all those, who wonder what "special key" turns a regular shoot into something unique, touching, unrepeatable and "hollywood worth".
The more experience I'm getting, the more consistency I can see - that secret ingredient, every time, is SINCERITY of the couple/family: their ability to stay open-hearted, candid, truthful, loving and tender/sometimes funny and crazy with each other at the shoot. The less they care about the world around (even including me, unless I'm asking them to do something specific), the more epic shots I can capture.
The same thing I've mentioned when me and my husband were captured by few great photographers lately. The main thing that inspired them and what they were expecting from us as the models during the process was the SINCERITY. Our pure emotions, couple little habits, cute kisses (not only the lips, guys! if you're embarrassed to kiss your other half's lips in public, just remember, that there're hands, cheeks, foreheads, eyes, noses, necks, ears left :D ). Don't be shy to keep closer. You're holding your biggest treasure, aren't you? So what for is the distance? :)
As for the families - don't try to keep your kids still. Don't try to strike the poses like our goal is to capture a single traditional "passport picture style" photo :). Just have fun! Laugh with your kids, jump with them, kiss and hug. Be honest, be real. Keep in mind, that the more active and emotional you will be, the more sweet and touching future memories you will get.
I'd really appreciate if the Clients that are booking a love story/family shoot with me could realize that my part of the work is to capture and "frame" the atmosphere that THEY ARE CREATING. I don't seem to have problems with giving the posing directions for those who are expecting them, but I wish it would be optional.
And sometimes... some inspired people are contacting me regarding the shoot, we're discussing the upcoming event to the details, they're sending me some visual examples of what does they prefer/expect/desire to get... and when we meet up... I see, that the couple isn't ready to show their love. And it is the most upsetting thing. As I understand that they've made some great preparations/expectations regarding the shoot. But the most important is the process. Those 60/90/120 minutes, when loving people should feel/act like the heroes of the coolest romantic movie. Just try to do that! Isn't it an amazing experience to get? If you'll be able to keep that vibe just for few minutes, I promise that you will get some unique photos filled with your Private Atmosphere of Love.
What I can say.... It's up to you, guys! I will do my best to make you feel comfortable, interested and open during the shoot. I will give you the directions, suggestions, advices and will share my point of view if needed. I'll ask you some questions and will be joking from time to time only to relax you and to create a friendly connection between us. But after all, this is YOUR SHOOT. this is YOUR SPECIAL TIME, your investment to the priceless story of your life and love...
So what do you think? Are you in?...