Some of my absolute favorite people to photograph are creatives. Working with models, actors, dancers, musicians and artists is very inspiring to me. As a creative professional, I love learning about another person’s talents and processes. My goal when photographing these kinds of clients is to allow their talents, strengths, and personal style to shine through the images.

Before a shoot, I discuss with my clients the style, mood, and purpose for the desired photography. Oftentimes this means capturing a range of emotions on different sets, in order for the client to have options when selecting an image for a headshot, portfolio, submission, article, etc. Sometimes we focus in on a more tailored, cohesive look throughout the photos for personal brand continuity. I like to pull inspirational images to ensure all are on the same page and excited about the outcome. Hair, makeup, and wardrobe are discussed prior as well. This planning stage ensures for a flawless and efficient shoot.

I place no restrictions on the amount of wardrobe or background changes during a shoot so that the client can get as much variety out of their session as possible. Naturally, there is a limit on the amount of looks that can be achieved in a given timeframe, but so much is contingent on purpose, personal comfort, hair and makeup services, etc. that I like to stay flexible around each client’s needs. It is better to be able to choose from images with more variety than less. A model doesn’t need twenty versions of the same photo in their portfolio, whereas they would benefit from twenty diverse photos showing their range for potential bookings.

Having a hair and makeup artist or wardrobe stylist on set is a game changer for photoshoots. While I am experienced in styling and aware to look out for clothing or hair discrepancies while shooting, this does not compare to having a dedicated professional there to make a client’s hair, makeup, and wardrobe look their very best. Having a specialist take care of those important aspects of a shoot takes away a lot of stress and doubt for many clients. If multiple looks are needed for a shoot, it is essential that the hair, makeup, and wardrobe also reflect these changes. A model or actor is essentially a chameleon, transforming themselves to fit a role. Their portfolio should reflect this, displaying various looks to emulate different jobs. A shoot can encompass everything between a natural look to a full on glam look in just a few hours, giving the client much needed diversity in their images. Many hair and makeup artists I work with are also wardrobe stylists, making for a more cost effective rate. I would highly recommend this service as an essential part of a photoshoot to any client.

After a shoot, I create a gallery of images for my client to review. I encourage them to take their time and go through a few rounds of selection, so that they narrow down to the very best of what they need. I am always on hand for a second opinion. Usually this is the hardest part of the process, as it can be hard to choose! My favorite time is when I get to deliver finished images back to my client. It is just as exciting for me as it is for them to see the beautiful results of our hard work.

I feel honored to have been trusted by so many of my clients to style and photograph images that uniquely represent them. Having a quality portfolio is essential, whether just starting out or as a seasoned professional. I love being able to collaborate with other creatives in order to produce images that will further their ambitions!

You can view more of Sarah's creative portraiture here.