3 wonderful things that happen when photographers have their photos taken

Besides the fact that you will finally have some nice portraits of yourself (yes, we know, you are never in any of the family vacation pictures, because you are obviously the one taking them), shifting to the other side of the camera is definitely something you need to consider once in a while. Keeping reading to find out why.

1. You start relating (and connecting) to your clients even more

Imagine a tattoo artist with no tattoos. Or a dentist who’s never had their wisdom teeth removed. Hard to believe, right? If they do exist, it’d still not be easy to fully trust them, as you’d think they just don’t get your pain or they know something you don’t (sneaky). 

We’re not saying that getting photographed is painful, but for some people - it can be awkward. Some of your clients get uncomfortable and start asking themselves all these questions that make your job a bit harder. Do I look at the camera? Do I look away? Did I dress accordingly? Can you tell I’m not relaxed? Am I smiling too much? Unless you’re dealing with an absolute extrovert who loves attention and camera lights - mere mortals do doubt themselves. They need empathy, patience and a little guidance from you, the expert. 

When you step into their shoes and get your photos taken, you immediately become the tattoo artist who is covered in tattoos. You start to get an understanding of how your clients feel in front of the camera. You relate to them on much deeper levels and you know how to make them feel more comfortable (and it makes your job even more rewarding). No amount of classes will teach you that skill. Besides, it’s a great way to create meaningful connections with your clients. This will inspire them. It’s something they will include in testimonials and tell their friends about. “You know, Mandy made me feel so at ease, I totally forgot I was being photographed. It’s like she knew what I was going through! “. Well, she did. *wink*.

2. You start to notice how beautiful you are

How many times did your clients tell you “I always look so beautiful in your pictures, you are so talented!” and you’d reply “That’s because you ARE beautiful!”? It’s true. And sometimes we need to see ourselves the way others see us.

Accepting to be on the other side of the camera can do you wonders. A few well-executed portraits can boost your confidence to the roof. You see - humans, by nature, tend to be their harshest critics, especially when it comes to looks. “My nose is too big, I wish I had better hair, I’m too fat, I’m too skinny, I look tired, my face is too round” and it keeps on going forever. Yet, if you ask your friends, family or even a stranger to describe you - you’ll be pleasantly surprised and humbled to hear what they have to say. A successful photo shoot (with a photographer you trust) helps you relax, teaches you to see yourself through a different lens and it can be incredibly liberating, even healing sometimes. You no longer feel the need to control the world’s perception of you, you are free to reveal yourself and simply enjoy the moment in time (it’s kind of like dancing when nobody’s watching and it’s fantastic!).

Harder than it sounds? Experiment. Start with self-portraits, allow your partner or best friend to take some portraits of you, then hire a professional photographer and explore a whole different level of intimacy. Try working with a few different photographers, because every new person will see you differently and that will channel through their images - hence helping you discover more and more of your inner beauty. It’s a wonderful thing!

3. You have stunning images for your About Page

On a more technical note, let’s talk about website About Pages. While many photographers focus on showcasing their portfolio, process and investment, it is imperative to have a strong About Page. Your customers are humans who want to interact with another human. They want to get to know you, so give them a chance to do that! Let them get an idea of your personality before they even meet you. Show them your face, show photos with your loved ones, show them your pets, tell them your story. Nothing makes a stronger impact on a client’s decision to book you than a powerful, honest portrait that makes them instantly like you and want to connect with you. And let us tell you, it’s in the eyes. It’s always in the eyes. Show them your beautiful eyes.

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We want to hear about your amazing photo sessions (as a photographed one). Email us on info@squaremuse.com - we’d love to interview you and hear how this impacts your job, your level of inspiration and your everyday life. 

Creatively yours, 

Squaremuse Team