The next time a newspaper photographer takes your picture, remember the 5 things they hate!
1. People who are up themselves and demand that other people be included or excluded from the shot. Never tell the photographer who to photograph. Don’t put them on the spot like this, because you want a top job. Think about it, if you try to put them on the spot, what usually happens is, they will oblige and take a few shots just to placate you. But then they will make a mental note that you're a real pain to deal with.
2. Not giving the photographer enough time to take a photo. After he arrives, he might want to look around, consider several different backdrops, check and double-check equipment, make sure the lighting is adequate, and experiment by shooting you in several different settings. So don't rush him.
3. Know all’s. These are usually amateur photographers, who think they know all the best angles, lighting and backdrops. Hang on a moment. The photographer doesn't tell you how to do your job. So you shouldn't tell them how to take a photograph
4. Public relations people and staff members who act like bodyguards and refuse to let the photographer talk one-on-one with the photo subject. Photographers like one-on-one contact for several reasons. It makes the photo subject feel more at ease. It also helps the photographer discover something about the photo subject that they that might not have known.
Often these people leave the photographer waiting for half an hour. Call them as soon as you know there will be a delay. The photographer may want to reschedule, as they have another job to get to. A reminder for you, every minute you make a photographer wait is one less minute they can spend helping you look good.
5. Being a control freak! Demanding to see all the photos they have taken so you can choose. Leave this decision to the photographer and photo editor. Added to that demanding that you get to keep originals, these are the property of the Newspaper or media organisation. They are under no obligation whatsoever to give them to you, although some media outlets will sell you a print.
Photographers tell me that it’s often these people who ask if the photographer can send them 10 reprint, for free! Don't ask the reporters or editors. Call the publication and order them yourself, and expect to pay.
1. People who are up themselves and demand that other people be included or excluded from the shot. Never tell the photographer who to photograph. Don’t put them on the spot like this, because you want a top job. Think about it, if you try to put them on the spot, what usually happens is, they will oblige and take a few shots just to placate you. But then they will make a mental note that you're a real pain to deal with.
2. Not giving the photographer enough time to take a photo. After he arrives, he might want to look around, consider several different backdrops, check and double-check equipment, make sure the lighting is adequate, and experiment by shooting you in several different settings. So don't rush him.
3. Know all’s. These are usually amateur photographers, who think they know all the best angles, lighting and backdrops. Hang on a moment. The photographer doesn't tell you how to do your job. So you shouldn't tell them how to take a photograph
4. Public relations people and staff members who act like bodyguards and refuse to let the photographer talk one-on-one with the photo subject. Photographers like one-on-one contact for several reasons. It makes the photo subject feel more at ease. It also helps the photographer discover something about the photo subject that they that might not have known.
Often these people leave the photographer waiting for half an hour. Call them as soon as you know there will be a delay. The photographer may want to reschedule, as they have another job to get to. A reminder for you, every minute you make a photographer wait is one less minute they can spend helping you look good.
5. Being a control freak! Demanding to see all the photos they have taken so you can choose. Leave this decision to the photographer and photo editor. Added to that demanding that you get to keep originals, these are the property of the Newspaper or media organisation. They are under no obligation whatsoever to give them to you, although some media outlets will sell you a print.
Photographers tell me that it’s often these people who ask if the photographer can send them 10 reprint, for free! Don't ask the reporters or editors. Call the publication and order them yourself, and expect to pay.
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About the Author
Paul M Johnstone is a Speaker, Author, and Executive Mentor. He has build two businesses by using the power of the network and with almost no other marketing. And can be reached at +44 (0)7711 324362or through his website at http://www.paradigmshakers.co.uk/ and http://www.pmjohnstone.co.uk/
P.S. I’m reading a great book The DNA of success by Chris Norton, which is full of fascinating stories from leading figures from sport, politics, business, the military and the arts from some of the most influential business and thought leaders in the UK today. So far I’m getting lots of real good information. Anyway please take a look and it would be nice if you fed that back to me. I hope you enjoy it.
