Off Script
Being a photographer can undoubtedly bring with it its fair share of unique challenges and quirky moments at times, but those very experiences are precisely the fascinating aspects that we enthusiastically sign up for when we make the decision to transform what was once merely a personal hobby into a professional service. Those challenges can manifest in various dynamic ways, such as brainstorming innovative and creative ideas for a session while also crafting unique looks right on the spot when called upon by thoughtful clients. I genuinely love to thrive under those exhilarating and unpredictable conditions, as they afford me an incredible opportunity to create off script and pose truly unique looks that stand out. Brayan and Jackie provided an exceptional opportunity for me to craft a memorable and impactful session under those conditions.
I’d like to think that the overwhelming majority of small businesses thrive largely off of referrals, just as I do with my own photography services. Overall, it’s an amazing and effective way to gain trust from past clients, allowing them to pass on their positive experiences to new clients who may be seeking similar services. My business truly loves and values referrals, and Brayan and Jackie were a referral of a different kind, sort of.
Brayan and my Mother-in-Law used to be coworkers, but they have maintained a wonderful friendship and stayed in contact over the years. As Jackie has progressed further in her pregnancy, my thoughtful and caring Mother-in-Law figured it would be a lovely and memorable gift to offer them a maternity session, especially since this is their first child. She naturally thought of me, having a close connection to a wonderful photographer such as myself, lol. The gesture was such a great and thoughtful idea, and I honestly couldn’t thank her enough for the opportunity to meet this wonderful couple and capture such a truly memorable time in their lives!
During the booking and planning stages of the session, Brayan and Jackie didn’t really have any specific ideas or concepts in mind for their upcoming session, and under the unique circumstances of how this session came about, I can totally understand that hesitation. I can imagine that as they embark on this exciting new venture in their lives, they must have a lot going on in preparation for bringing a new life into this world. A photoshoot and ideas for one must be, understandably, one of the last things occupying their minds amidst all the preparations.
As I took the time to break down my session structure, discussing in detail how the session would unfold and what they could expect, I did my utmost to reassure them that I would take great care of them throughout this process, ensuring that we would create stunning and memorable images to highlight this momentous time, and to encourage them not to worry. I felt very confident in what I was going to provide for them, drawing upon past experiences and my extensive study of a variety of maternity portraits to inspire the session. Let me add, during this booking process, I don’t know them, and they don’t know me. I have no familiarity with what they look like or what to expect from them. However, this was not a problem at all; I am well-versed in creating compelling imagery on the spot. So, I went into this session fully prepared with an array of different ideas, ready for whoever would walk through the door of the studio to transform their expectations into reality.
Brayan and I had a brief conversation during the booking process in preparation for the upcoming session, but to be completely honest, I really don’t have a clear understanding of who these two individuals are. However, I have complete faith and trust that my Mother-in-Law is referring excellent people to me, so I am not the slightest bit worried about what I’m getting into; after all, I operate a business that provides a valuable service. Dealing with new clients and personalities is a regular part of my routine.
As we begin our session, I take some time to introduce myself properly, allowing me to get to know both Brayan and Jackie better. During our time together, I discover that Brayan knows and has conducted business with a significant number of my family members over the years. It turns out that Brayan is involved in the printing business, specializing in shirts and clothing, and I even find a few articles of his impressive work in my closet from past softball teams that I’ve played on, as well as church membership activities and events I’ve taken part in due to his affiliation with my wife’s uncle. It truly is a small world! Of course, throughout the session, I took the opportunity to showcase my capture. brand clothing and made a persuasive sales pitch for my work! As if that coincidence weren't enough, I also learn that he knows Deja, a frequent collaborator of mine whose work is prominently featured all over my website. Who would have thought?
Needless to say, our time together on this memorable session was an absolute blast! I couldn’t have possibly expected how great of a time it turned out to be, and I was thrilled with how the images came out in the end!
Operating off script turned out to be the key to a truly successful maternity session, as we genuinely spent time getting to know each other better and enjoying some delightful conversations while capturing beautiful images. It really didn’t feel like work on my end at all.
A heartfelt congrats to Brayan and Jackie on the wonderful journey of inviting a new life into this world, and I wish them nothing but the absolute best as they embark on this exciting new chapter together.
