As a photographer, I don't just show up on the day of the shoot and start clicking away. Instead, I always make sure to have a pre-production meeting with the person I'll be photographing. Whether it's in person or now through zoom, these meetings are a crucial part of my creative process. They allow me to get to know the person on a deeper level and learn about their journey, not just what they do professionally.
When this candid was taken by a friend of Priscillas, I was giving my full attention to her as she recounted a personal story.
During these meetings, which usually take around an hour, I'm able to conceptualize the photoshoot better. By understanding their story and what drives them, I can come up with ideas and elements that will make the shoot more personal and unique. I also love adding details in the environment that highlight the person's accomplishments and interests, creating a visual story that I find to be more interesting and meaningful.
In my opinion, this pre-production process is essential for creating great photographs. It helps me establish a connection with the person I'm photographing, which in turn allows me to capture their essence and energy in the final image. So, if you're planning a photoshoot with me, don't be surprised if I insist on having a chat beforehand. Trust me, It's not just about the logistics!
Portrait of Priscilla. The location of the shoot, pose and attire were chosen based on the conversations we had leading up to the shoot.