Difficult family

13 years 3 months ago #20575 by Ba3b3
The other day I had a family shoot of a family that was very difficult. Typically, In about an hour session I have been taking about 100 pictures and usually end up with 30ish that I show the family. This time, I only took about 50 pictures and I end up liking 5 pictures. Why? Well, the little girl wanted no part of having her picture taken. She wanted down and when she was put down she wanted up. She wanted to sit and when she sat she wanted to stand. When she was walking she wanted to run, when we said ok run she wanted to sit. The father was just as bad....when we could finally get the little girl to smile, he was paying no attention and more than likely complaining about something.....

How do I tell them the pictures did not come out very well without hurting feelings?

BTW, this is like my 10th portrait session. I'm still new to the business side.


,
13 years 3 months ago #20614 by Jen0block4
If it was me, pick your favorite pictures to show them. It will be up to the family to decide if the pictures came out well or not. You never know, they may end up liking the pictures. Remember, as photographers we are our own worst crtitic. If they do not like the pictures, that should be fine too. In the end, you should have your session fee from them. So you already got paid for your job. If they don't buy any prints, it's their loss.


,
13 years 3 months ago #20618 by Ba3b3
Thanks. You're right. I already did get paid for my job. If the client doesn't like the photos, then maybe next time they will learn to get their daughter to behave herself.


,
13 years 3 months ago #20628 by G0ldie78
This is why I stick with sports.


,
13 years 3 months ago #20631 by photobod
There is absolutely nothing you can do in that given situation, if you got five decent shots then you have done your job well, I do this for a living and I wish I had a workable answer for you, but photography isnt like that, so stop worrying show them the photos, explain why there is only five decent ones, yes I did say explain, in a nice way of course, trust me the parents will know the problem after all its there daughter, in your shoes I would have had a word with with the parents at the end of the shoot, prewarning that you dont think you have many good shots and yes stress that it was due to there wonderful naughty daughter.
Well done getting paid up front that is so essential every time.
:goodpost: :goodpost: :judge: :judge: :judge:

www.dcimages.org.uk
"A good photograph is one that communicate a fact, touches the heart, leaves the viewer a changed person for having seen it. It is, in a word, effective." - Irving Penn

,
13 years 3 months ago #20644 by Ba3b3
Thanks photobod. I was thinking about explaining the situation to them. I just don't want them to put them blame on me. You know, I am the photographer, I am suppose to do my job correctly.


,
13 years 3 months ago #20662 by Baydream
What a headache. I prefer to photo non-speaking animals. Show a dog it's picture and it doesn't care :) You can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear, they say. Well, maybe you can in Photoshop. Good luck.

Shoot, learn and share. It will make you a better photographer.
fineartamerica.com/profiles/john-g-schickler.html?tab=artwork

Photo Comments
,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

The Canon EOS R100 is an entry-level mirrorless camera introduced in 2023. But just because it’s an entry-level camera doesn’t mean it’s a bare-bones camera. Find out why in this review!

Apr 22, 2024

Nikon’s retro-looking Nikon Zfc is anything but retro. Under its classic body is a host of features and amenities that make it a worthwhile compact mirrorless camera for 2024.

Apr 15, 2024

The Canon EOS R50 is one of the newest R-system cameras from Canon. Is it worth your money? Find out all the details you need to know in this comprehensive review.

Apr 10, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Urban photography is a genre showcasing features in urban settings. You can photograph people, architecture, mass transit, and many other subjects. Learn how to do so in this guide!

Apr 30, 2024

The Nikon D850 might be an older DSLR, but it was ahead of its time when it debuted in 2017. That means it still has plenty of firepower to compete with today’s powerful mirrorless cameras.

Apr 30, 2024

The best beginner camera isn’t the same for everyone. That means having choice is of the utmost importance. In this guide, explore five excellent beginner camera options for 2024 and beyond.

Apr 25, 2024

Child portrait photography is a unique undertaking requiring special skills and talents to get the best results. Start mastering this photography niche with these essential tips!

Apr 25, 2024

The Fujifilm XT5 is a 40MP mirrorless camera capable of 6.2K video at 30p. With those specs, it’s an ideal choice for photographers needing a camera to pull double duty for imaging and video.

Apr 25, 2024

Using leading lines in photography helps improve the composition by drawing viewers in and leading their eye from the foreground to the background. Explore some fine examples of this in this guide!

Apr 24, 2024

The Insta360 has one of the best lineups of action cams and 360-degree cameras. With these Insta360 accessories, you can elevate your photography and videography game!

Apr 24, 2024

Creating impactful photos of landscapes depends on many factors, not the least of which is your talent behind the lens. This guide explores other elements required for the best product.

Apr 23, 2024