Stop. Talk. Shoot. Why communication is key to a healthy photoshoot.

Photography is, traditionally, seen as a solitary medium of expression. This is a dominant thought due to genres such as landscape, wildlife, street, astrophotography, etc... although all photography can be and often is a group activity, many mediums can be and are practiced alone.

Because of this - first time portrait photographers can get caught up in the artistic process - balancing elements to make a well rounded image, and accidentally ignoring the subject entirely. This is where - unfortunately - most good photoshoots die.

Beginner photographers forget the massive impact preparation and communication have on final images. The comfort of a model is massively evident in a photographers work - not only in body language but in compatibility. It is always good to actively check in with your model while shooting, make sure that they understand what you want clearly, and double-check that they are comfy with what you are requiring from them. Especially when it comes to more intimate subjects or themes that might be triggering.

The photographer can help with avoiding discomfort during the shoot by doing proper preparation. Make sure to write up a shoot synopsis, plan, and prepare a look-book for the model(s) to browse. You could also schedule online or in person meetings as well, but that's all down to your preference.

We practice online consultations before every headshot session for just this reason. It lets us understand exactly what our clients want, helps the client understand our process and shooting methodology - and also gives us the opportunity to get to know each other, helping our photographers be seen as people and not "big scary togs".

Of course, photographers and models often have spark plug moments while shooting, maybe some crazy inspiration that requires a risky movement or position - how do we make sure everybody is comfy while improvising? Well, first things first, make sure both parties give consent. After this, keep checking in to make sure nothing has changed, and finally, talk afterwards about the result, and if you want to try again and what you could do differently. Another thing, make sure both parties are excited about the improvised ideas - you don't want to accidentally pressure a model or photographer into making art they're not comfy with.

But what does this clear communication result in? It results in a symbiosis of creative excellence. It means that photographers and models are at ease when creating, and are focussed more on the art rather than the presence of another person. Focussed work is finessed work. It means that those improvised moments aren't missed, or worse, awkwardly forced.

Keeping clear communication and creating a relaxed environment for your client, model, or even yourself can result in the curation of your best work. Do thorough preparation, make sure to check in, and create some brilliant work.

Nic - FourthCornerPhotography.