M_lyttle t1_j6os4sg wrote on January 31, 2023 at 8:58 PM

I appreciate you constantly pushing the concept of a portrait from something staid to something dynamic and fascinating and fun. I assume you're going into these shoots with a concept from a photo editor or art director. But you're also photographing people who sometimes heavily controlled (image wise) and giving you little-to-no time.

I appreciate you constantly pushing the concept of a portrait from something staid to something dynamic and fascinating and fun. I assume you're going into these shoots with a concept from a photo editor or art director. But you're also photographing people who are sometimes heavily controlled (image-wise) and giving you little-to-no time.

I'd love to hear about your approach. Do you start simple and work your way up? Or do you go in with a mood board and your dream idea upfront? How much are you involving the people your photographing in the process?

chris_buck OP t1_j6owefq wrote on January 31, 2023 at 9:25 PM

I usually do research before a shoot, so that I have some background on the subject. This makes interacting with them go smoothly, and they are then more likely to join me in trying an adventurous idea. Also, the research can sparks ideas, like maybe they have a surprising interest that we can turn into a picture.

Part of my approach is that I'm optimist and excited about doing something different and fun, and that can be contagious. Most of my sitters are highly accomplished, and they got there being risk takers, so I tap into that part of their personalities when pitching ideas.