Simple steps to natural portraits

Learn how to capture genuine portraits whilst feeling relaxed 

The act of taking a photograph is one of the most common events during a fun day out. Indeed, the whole of society is geared up to capturing, sharing, and printing snapshots of life through instagram, FB and twitter. See what I get up to here. 

As commonplace as this activity is, there are precious few people who can consistently make beautiful portraits. Why should this be?

While most of us are quite content to be photographed by one of our nearest or dearest, the notion that someone less familiar should take our ‘portrait’ is generally considered threatening.

When looking for a photographer in Seaview, you want to book someone with special social skills and is immediately able to put people at their ease, that incomprehensible aura which is so subtly expressed through the sitters gaze and which is unique to each individual is lost when a person is uncomfortable with the photographer.

How I get to know you

Building a rapport with my clients is key to your experience. I work hard to create a vitally important component to my sessions – the gift to empathise. Like any artist, a good photographer needs to be a shrewd observer, rapidly evaluating changing moods and expressions, but remaining ever vigilant that you don’t feel intimidated. All the testimonials on my independent review site share a common theme – an ability to connect with my clients.

What I say to make you feel comfortable

I don’t deal in ‘stolen’ images. I constantly chat with you throughout the session and seek, almost without exception, to establish genuine contact because it is only in this way that true character can be revealed. We can chat about:

• where are you going to use these images?
• what do you want people to say when they see your photos?
• is there any aspect you feel self-conscious about and want to hide?
• shall we take a stroll and see how it goes?
• let’s move on and try again somewhere else

What I do to make it easy-going

Only when you are relaxed can true character be revealed. I recognise and use the power of people’s natural connection with each other to communicate precisely the good times you enjoy together. The myriad of emotions captured during any session range from humour to thoughtfulness, and from candour to introspection; and yet all convey conviction and a genuine sense of humanity.

I don’t have a list of poses to tick off, but a mental cache of emotions to convey. In your session with me I want you to:

• be excited
• be together
• be adored
• be snuggly
• be quirky
• be loved
• be playful
• be individual
• be free

How I help you plan

I want to help my clients get ready in style. I aim to answer all the little niggles and doubts before we even meet. Once each and every question is answered and all the details of the shoot are battened down, the easier it is to relax and enjoy spending time with your family. Ask to see your session guide.

By staying true to these principles, I ensure a truly wonderful experience.  I customise each photo session, from the beginning of the shoot right until your items are delivered. My goal is to personally look after you every step of the way. That way I know you’ll get a service that is second to none.

Let me capture a meaningful day in your life. Mandy