Working as a Team...

HondaJet photographed recently at Dekalb Peachtree Airport here in Atlanta. ©2019 John Slemp

Using one’s business assets correctly is always beneficial to one's efforts.  If an asset is not utilized fully, it'll never be known what could have been achieved.  While this is a "given," it was on my mind recently.

On one day's notice, I was recently hired to photograph a HondaJet for a long-time client.  While "acceptable" images of the aircraft were made earlier in the afternoon, they didn't have the impact that could've been achieved with a bit more preparation (and thought), and I wasn't quite satisfied. 

Waiting until almost dark, I decided to try a new technique, and the results are much more colorful, dramatic, and impactful.  I mention this because it's always better to have a discussion with your photographer about what you want to achieve, prior to the shoot date.  This enables time to prepare, both visually and mentally, and if appropriate, make recommendations as to possible options available within certain time and budget constraints.

By treating your photographer as a trusted "visual consultant", they can advise you on what's possible, beyond the simple click of the shutter.  Many photographers create what I call “record shots,” and they are just an accurate record of any situation. But they are usually devoid of any concept, visual or otherwise, and any photographer worth their salt is always looking for new and better ways to develop their craft, and thereby their capabilities in delivering quality imagery.  

It usually results in a much happier client, and a much more satisfied photographer, in that they know they’ve done their best.