Tethered Torture: The Pros and Cons of Clients Picking Their Images
Avoid Selecting That Image
Around here, there's nothing worse than having a subpar image slip through the net during a photoshoot, only for the client to fall head-over-heels for it. Maybe you accidentally shot it while fiddling with your camera settings, or maybe the client asked you to take a whacky selfie and you thought it was a joke. Well, you got it, and now it's the main event.
But before we dive into all the annoyance, let's see if some education will help ease the pain.
When Good Shots Go Bad
Chances are, you're a pro photographer, and that means you've got a vision. But sometimes, that vision gets lost in translation, especially if you're working tethered. Tethering connects your camera to a computer, allowing you and your client to view and edit shots on the fly. It's great for collaboration, but it can also lead to a client's poor selections—and a shot in the foot for you.
So, what's gonna happen? You've got a potential client who's got an odd sense of style or taste, and you've agreed to collaborate on a project. The session goes off without a hitch, and you're left thinking, "Okay, let's let these images breathe and come back to them later." But then, the client pipes up, "Hey, have you sorted these for me? I think I've found a few I like." Here's where things can go south: your client's picks will likely clash with your aesthetic.
Why Knowledge is Bliss
So why does this happen, and what can you do to avoid it? Well, knowing your client's preferences is essential. Make sure you discuss their goals, style, and vision before the shoot. And if they seem a bit off-kilter, don't be afraid to speak up and guide them towards a more visually appealing direction.
But Knowing is Half the Battle
Now, if you find yourself in a bind and the client's picked a catastrophic shot, be delicate. Suggest similar images that you think fit their needs better, and show them why those might be a safer bet. Remember, though, that their taste is their preference, so it's essential to tread lightly and avoid coming off as arrogant or condescending.
In Conclusion
Tethered sessions can be excellent ways to involve your clients in the creative process and build a stronger relationship. But they can also lead to poor selections if you don't take the time to understand your client's preferences and guide them towards a more visually appealing path. So, when in doubt, speak up and be honest. And even if you end up with a questionable shot making its way onto the client's website, just remind yourself that beauty is most definitely in the eye of the beholder.
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During a tethered photoshoot, clients might unexpectedly favor unconventional images, such as a whimsical home-and-garden selfie or a distinctive lifestyle headshot. To ensure the images align with your aesthetic, it's crucial to discuss client objectives, preferences, and vision prior to the shoot, and offer guidance if necessary.
