What comes first, the video or the portrait?
- Dec 21, 2017
- 2 min read
The YURU process involves video and portraits. I've been asked, 'Which comes first - the video or the portrait?' The answer is simple but important.
Photographers start out COLD.
Almost every photographer starts each portrait session 'cold.' What I mean by that is that photographers don't know the client before the session. Often, they haven't even met! If they have met, it's been a brief consultation designed to clarify expectations on both sides. The intent isn't to 'get to know' the client. There's a serious problem with this.
How do you create a portrait of someone you don't know?
How hard is it to create a beautiful portrait of someone you just met. Let's first consider what a 'beautiful portrait' is according to Eric:
beau•ti•ful por•trait: a flattering image that shows the subject's REAL character and personality.
Beautiful portraits cannot be created between strangers.
What makes a portrait real?
Being real = Being authentic.
Being authentic = Being vulnerable.
Being vulnerable requires trust.
Most relationships of trust start with conversation. Whether you're on a first date or interviewing for a job - it starts with conversation. As humans actively listen and learn about each other, the foundation for a relationship begins.
It's been our experience that, as we ask our questions and are sincerely interested in our client's response, walls come down and we're more comfortable being vulnerable. It's then that humans reveal their real selves. Being vulnerable and real is the only way we connect with each other. That connection shows up in portraits.
"There are always two people in every picture..."
Ansel Adams (no relation) said "There are always two people in every picture. The photographer and the viewer." I agree with that. However, with portrait photography, I think the THREE people are the photographer, viewer and SUBJECT.
The it's the connection between the photographer and the subject that affects the quality of the portrait. Of course, the viewer is impacted by looking at a portrait and feeling that connection. This is what makes a portrait impactful...and beautiful.
The video must precede the portrait.
So, yes, the video should come first. The video interview gives us the opportunity to develop a relationship of trust and connect with our client. This relationship of trust begins quickly during the interview. Within minutes, the camera is forgotten our clients become completely comfortable. This is an essential step towards creating truly beautiful portraits. Here are some highlights from a couple's session:
Building trust is a skill.
The ability to build trust is as important as my ability as a photographer. It's a skill that's developed over time. Hopefully, I'm connecting with you right now through these words.
For you take a step towards hiring us, you must have some level of trust that you're not wasting your time or money. This trust will develop quickly based on our experience, skills and sincere passion for the mission of YURU.
Eric
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