For my sixteenth birthday, I asked for a photoshoot with my two best friends. I stressed hard about what to wear. I wanted to make the most of my photo opportunity, but I was overwhelmed planning for it.
Your clients probably feel the same way. Most people can recognize when something looks good, but they might have a hard time understanding why.
As the photographer, you prepare so hard to prepare and fine tune your photography skills. But even when you do everything correctly, the light is perfect, and the couple is so adorable, an Engagement Session with crocs might not advance your business.
I sympathize. I base most of my personal fashion decisions around not having to wear real pants. But it doesn't look as great on camera.
The sessions you put out into the world are what you're going to attract more of. Take control of what you want to shoot, and prepare your clients a recommended style guide beforehand. I have a 30 page PDF that I email to every client as soon as they book with me.
Benefits of a Style Guide:
Save time: when you have a prepared style guide, you don't have to do as much emailing back and forth
Build trust: You'll seem professional before the session even starts
Save clients stress: Planning for professional photos can be overwhelming
Have your clients love how they look: And you will too
Have every shoot move your business forward: *insert smirk here
Things to Potentially Include in Your Style Guide:
How to Choose a Date & Time
Selecting the Location
Coordinating Outfits
Props
Style Tips: For Her
What to Wear
Choosing Color
Flattering your features
Accessorizing
Hair & Makeup
Fashion Tips: For Him
After the Session
Engagement Session Checklist
My style guide is based off of Amy & Jordan's Style Guide. Their guide as a starting point has been worth every cent. Key tips from my own Style Guide can be found here
