Using Interactions to Get Great Photos

Just about any photographer will tell you their best shots happened because of their interactions with their subject. The comfort level of the subject has a direct influence and how good the photos will turn out. Keeping an open line of communication while you're doing the photographing is key to producing quality images. It helps put your subject at ease when they're staring at the camera pointed at them. They need to know you.

If this doesn't happen, it will undoubtedly be evident in the photos. We've all seen photos of people that just look uncomfortable. Being in a relaxed and casual state can usually bring out what a photographer is attempting to capture. Discomfort has a look and expression that is unmistakable. You can usually avoid this look by making a connection with your subject.

So how does that work? Everyone has a different approach, but I like to try to get to meet them at least once before the shoot so I'm not a completely unfamiliar being. During the actual shoot, keeping an open dialog helps too. Discussing something your subject is passionate about will likely get you some great expressions. You have to be friendly and accommodating...keep the atmosphere relaxed, take frequent breaks and get their input too. Keep the shoot more of a human interaction than a business transaction.