clothing. For example, while talking with a client about her “sexy portrait,” she
may comment that she doesn’t want to look sleazy. In that case, I would select
more alluring (not overtly sexy) clothing in softer colors for a more gentle ap-
peal. Once the clothing is selected, the backgrounds can be chosen to coordi-
nate with it (we will be discussing backgrounds in greater detail shortly).
Only when all these decisions are made am I ready to take my first test image.
As the image downloads onto the computer, I quickly check for any issues I
haven’t yet fixed, as well for coloration and exposure. At this point, I am ready
to pose the face to achieve the best angle and lighting (especially on the eyes)
and then concentrate on the subject’s expression.Meeting Client Desires Means Making Money.
The fact that I take the time to understand what my client actually wants—and
know how to set aside my own tastes to give them what they desire—is why I’m
making a great deal of money in this profession while other photographers are
being run out of business by soccer moms. Professional photographers use the
“ready, aim, fire” method of achieving excellent results. Younger photographers
and soccer moms use the “aim, fire, see what happens” method. As a result,
they don’t know what to expect until the previews come back and the client is
complaining about not getting what they wanted!BELOW AND FACING PAGE—The first step in
designing a portrait is finding out what the
client wants.