Blog Archives

Hate having flat hair? Do this before a headshot.

8/31/2018

Want more volume in your next headshot, but feel like you can't make it happen? This woman followed my instructions and within 30 seconds, her hair looked totally different.

Flip your head over and rub your scalp with your fingers (as if you were shampooing it).
Flip it back over, and let your photographer fix any flyaways.
Tilt your face down a tiny bit (when you can see more of the top of your head, it makes your hair look more voluminous).
(optional) Use dry shampoo, even if you just washed your hair. It's not always for "dirty" hair - it's often for volume!

Happy Headshots!
Autumn

2 Comments

I feel hurt because you don't value this at all

8/24/2018

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I was recently talking to Brandi (a great, very close friend of mine who is also self-employed) and she was sharing how she felt about a conversation with a past client.

They had a great relationship until the client asked her for free work on an upcoming project. Brandi took the time to craft a very kind email explaining why she wouldn't be able to proceed with the project in that way.

Even though she knew she did the right thing, she really wished she could have said how she was actually feeling...

"I feel hurt because you don't value this at all."
-- Brandi Lust

This is likely something we all feel at some point (not just self-employed people). As we communicate with others, let's consider what we are asking for and how it might affect them. The more we show others that we truly value them (verbally, financially, emotionally, etc.), the more we are likely to continue positive relationships.

How do you show others you value them? Comment below!

Happy Friday!
Autumn

2 Comments

What should photographers wear?

8/17/2018

4 Comments

I was recently asked the question, "What should photographers wear?"

The obvious answer is that it depends on the shoot, and what your client expects! Generally, I try to wear comfortable shoes and all black clothing (so that I don't stand out). Jamie Benjamin is a great example in this photo!

Otherwise, I kind of try to follow these ideas:

Casual events: casual clothing
Professional events: blazer + work pants
Wedding/family photos: yoga pants and a nice shirt (since I often get into awkward places or lie on the ground, I need to be super comfortable!)
Headshot/product/brand photography: depends on the client and the location!

What I would love to know: what do YOU expect photographers to wear?

Happy Friday!
Autumn

4 Comments

How to make it really hard for people to work with you

8/10/2018

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Over the past six years, I've learned a lot about the business side of photography. The part that might be surprising: I equally love taking photos and running the business!

I found where I had strengths and where I made mistakes (then fixed them!). What I've realized is that most of this information is applicable to so many industries - not just photography.

I'm feeling silly today, and thought it would be entertaining to share my 5 thoughts on how to make it really hard for people to work with you.

Don't answer client emails for a few weeks.
Clients can wait! They know you're busy and they don't mind feeling like a 37th priority.
Stop managing client information.
Keeping track of things like contact information (phone numbers, emails, addresses), scheduled meetings, payment preferences, etc. doesn't matter. When you work with them next time, they'll remind you.
Avoid creating templates for paperwork.
The paperwork I'm referring to? Estimates, contracts, invoices, and more. Just type up a brand new one each time you have a new client. It'll take time, and you might have lots of typos, but no one cares. Plus, if you ever have a legal issue, your attorney will understand.
Forget using a calendar to track upcoming work.
Why use a calendar? You don't need to remember you're having a client consultation or plans for client work. They'll forgive you if you stand them up...right?
Set clients' expectations.
Meet none of them.

Happy Friday! ;)
Autumn

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