Question: Since I can view my proofs online, why should I schedule a Proofing Session?
A proofing session insures every portrait serves a specific purpose
Answer: In short, my clients love proofing sessions because they make choosing and ordering portraits more efficient.
After my clients have had some time to view their proofs and make a list of “favorites”, we get together over my computer, which allows manipulations of the proofs that are not possible online. Using their list to guide our discussion, we can make side-by-side comparisons, view the same proof in Color versus B&W, and change cropping. But perhaps the most helpful aspect of a proofing session is the opportunity for my clients to utilize my experience and skill to discuss and choose the right portraits for them.
Most photographers do not take my approach. In fact, it may seem counter-intuitive, but I have found that by insuring my clients order portraits in sizes and quantities that best fit their purposes, I cultivate enthusiastic return customers. That is worth far more to me than any individual sale.
Question: What is a ‘consultation’ and why do I need one?
Getting to know your photographer ahead of time makes a better portrait!
Answer: A consultation is a complimentary visit that I make to my client’s home about a week before our portrait sitting. The primary purpose is to design our sitting.
We review my portfolio to determine where they want their sitting. Sometimes clients have an idea for location and sometimes they change theirs minds as we look through my portfolio. We also discuss clothing choices for everyone.
Paging through my portfolio gives me a chance to draw in and engage the kids. This is a non-threatening way to develop some rapport and learn a bit about their personalities. Simultaneously, it allows me to shed my “stranger” status and to become a better judge of each child’s natural character. For me, this is the most important part of my visit because it allows me to make better portraits.
Do you “need” a consultation? Under some circumstances, such as clients flying in from abroad or visiting from other cities, I may not have an opportunity to offer a consultation. For most of my clients, the consultation gives us a chance to get to know one another, which always makes the sitting more relaxed and comfortable. The more collaborative the effort, the better the outcome of your portrait sitting.
Question: Hi Elin, what should we wear for our portrait sitting?
Dress like yourselves!
Answer: It’s important that everyone be in comfortable clothing so that they look natural and relaxed in your pictures. I always try to pick out a “favorite” outfit for each child when I meet with parents before our shoot. I also advise you to wear something timeless rather than the latest fad, so that your portraits look just as great in 10 years as they do in 10 months. Lastly, avoid the contrived look of matching clothing. Each person in your family is an individual and should be allowed to look like one.
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