I

t took me a few years to realize that a glamour session is not

only an image booster, it also provides a safe venue—and I can’t

emphasize safestrongly enough—for your client to explore her

sexy, sensual side. By “safe,” I mean that the client must feel no sexual pres-

sure or have any worry whatsoever that some of the more intimate images

you create will turn up anywhere that might prove embarrassing to her. “I

think this is so sexy,” Rita said holding a very sheer, tight, charcoal top. “I

bought it because I loved it and I think I look really good in it. But on the

way home, I thought, ‘Where the heck am I going to wear this?’” My stu-

dio was it—and when you think about it, there aren’t that many places.

It’s really important that each subject realizes it’s your job to make her

look good. Most of us have had our share of unflattering photos, so most

people are a little apprehensive in front of the camera to begin with. In a

more intimate situation, your client will feel even more vulnerable, so reas-

surance is critical. Your LCD is a valuable tool here, especially early in the ses-

sion. Simply turning the camera around and showing your subject how good

she looks can really put her mind at ease.

The Planning Consultation.

A planning consultation is a must—not only because the focus of the session

needs planning but also to get acquainted with the client, since you may be

working with her on a fairly intimate level. At my studio, before the consul-

tation, the client and I will usually have already had at least one phone con-

versation. In most cases, she will also have seen some of my work at displays

or on my web site. When a client like this books a consultation, she’ll already

have respect for your work. Yet, the initial face-to-face meeting is still im-

portant; it’s your chance to strengthen that impression and to begin to un-

derstand her personality.

I suggest beginning the consultation by showing the client a slide show

of your work. This serves several purposes. It gives her another chance to

gauge your work, and seeing what other women have done often stimulates

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CLIENTS 19

2. UNDERSTANDING YOUR CLIENTS.

The LCD screen on your digital camera is a
great tool for putting your subject at ease.
Once she knows how great she looks, she’ll be
much less nervous.