When I am not in the psychotherapy trenches; I am photographing pets and their owners for Red Leash Studio. Experience has proven that while some people love being photographed, there are others who absolutely despise it. Those who dislike being in the photographic spotlight will devise all sorts of excuses to avoid the camera.
Animals on the other hand, although somewhat unpredictable are easier to photograph than their owners. An animal's unpredictability makes them fun to work with and can result in unique personality-capturing photographs. Unfortunately, some people find it difficult to relax in front of the camera because they feel constrained and inhibited by their own internal distorted self-image.
Usually, I photograph pets and their owners in the comfort of their home or at my studio, but the other evening I had the opportunity to photograph people in the absence of their animals. I had been asked to partner with a non-profit pet organization that was planning their first annual fundraiser. The organization was aware of my love for animals and photographic skills, so they asked me to donate my photographic services. I happily agreed but soon was faced with the question: "How do I help people feel comfortable within 30 seconds so I can take great photographs of them?" The pressure was further amplified knowing many people would be purchasing the photographs since I was donating the proceeds to the charity. That evening I wanted the organization to raise as much money as possible and the photographs would be a contribution to the revenue stream.
I wish I could say I had a plan but as fate would have it; I had to figure this one out on my own. As couples and individuals lined up for photographs I have to admit my stomach started to twist.
Fortunately, the skills I have developed over the years of being in the trenches took over. I applied the same tactics I use to make people feel comfortable in my office to photographing people at this event. In the trenches, the first golden rule is to ask people object oriented questions. Object oriented questions are as follows: What is your name? Are you married? And for how long? Do you have a pet? Object oriented questions are factual and not emotionally threatening. People can easily answer them and as a result feel confident. Second, I am complimentary. I find something about the individual or couple that I sincerely feel is complimentary. Such as: How great they look. What a wonderful couple they are to support the fundraiser. Third, I use humor. This can be tricky! Most people respond to humor and when people laugh their facial muscles relax and they look more comfortable.
When using humor, you want to make people laugh but you need to be conscious of possible sensitivities. Fortunately, I always bring a bag of tricks, toys and other objects I find interesting to use in my photographic session with an animal.
I pulled out this funny squeaky green toy that looked like a man and said to my assistant, "I think we might need this one!" Squeaked it and threw it over to him, resulting in the photograph above.
©2010 Wanda Behrens Horrell, All Rights Reserved
www.wandabehrenshorrell.com
wjb60@columbia.edu
www.redleashstudio.com
