Engaging the Subject

Photography isn't just about taking a picture and capturing memories. It's about peeling back layers and seeing your subject as they really are. With people, it's about getting the real shot of their real essence. You control the camera, but your subject is in control of what they reveal.

Getting someone to drop their guard can be a challenge. That's why getting a good photo is more than just pointing and shooting. It's mostly about engaging. Everyone feels the need to put on a mask and "smile" when a camera is pointed at them. It's the photographers job to get them to drop that mask and expose their reality. Interaction between photographer and subject is key. The subjects comfort level is what will give the photographer the expression they're looking for. They just need to get it out of them.

I always get inspired by the masters, and Richard Avedon is one of my favorites. There's a great documentary about him on YouTube called  "Darkness and Light" that was made in 1994, about 10 years before his death. If you want to really get inspired, watch all 9 parts. There's some great stories about how he got his subjects to "drop their guard."