How can you handle a subject who is uncomfortable with their portrayal in your photos?

When I'm photographing someone new, especially if they're not very comfortable in front of the camera, I often research their own profile pictures or ask them to share photos of themselves that they like. That gives me an idea of angles or features that they like of themselves and the ones they don't. Visual references are much better than words!

When a subject is uncomfortable with their portrayal in a photograph, it's crucial to prioritize their feelings. Open communication is key; ask for their specific concerns and discuss possible adjustments. Offer reassurance, express your intention behind the photo, and be willing to make modifications to ensure their comfort and satisfaction with the final result. Building trust and maintaining a respectful dialogue is essential in handling such situations.

Acknowledge and be relaxed about it. Having your photograph taken and striking a look and pose that requires you to pretend / project the best version of yourself is a weird thing unless you are a reptile or a psychopath. It's human and vulnerable to feel discomfort - and these are qualities that help to make great portraits. So lean in the discomfort, gently, with humour and /or warmth. Don't hide it or fight it, just work though it as part of the process of the shoot. Create a relaxed natural vibe ( one that is shaped by your personality as photographer ) Be driven by a spirit of openness and honestly. At, say halfway into shoot, review with your subject using the images you have taken. Repeat process..

It's so important to talk about the visions. I am aware of my customers needs. Make sure to check it out: Where is my customer now, where does he want to go and what is in between. Show the photos during the shooting to get feedback.

Although I am a portrait painter, I work from photos I take of my subjects. For my adult subjects I like to ask them to tell me the two things like least about their face, and the two things they like most. And their answers are honest and direct and it allows me to tailor the photo session to their preferences - and it establishes trust.

Slow down the pace, and I calmly propose that we sit & chat a bit. I gently ask, how they are feeling and then I listen. Attentive listening becomes paramount, this usually relives much of their stress or concerns. I don't share how I can solve their problems or improve their feelings. Creating a safe and unhurried environment is essential. If they dislike the images appearing on the computer system, I suggest we examine them together and discuss their preferences. I ask what they find displeasing, and lend a patient ear. We explore ways to tailor the visuals to their liking. My approach revolves around intentional listening, maintaining a calm and confident demeanor, and infusing empathy into every interaction with the client.

Smooth collaborations begin with clear and open communication. Before and during the shoot, engage in a dialogue with your subject. Understand their expectations, preferences, and concerns. Share your goals, style, and approach. Establish ground rules and boundaries. Listen to their feedback, be flexible, and find common ground. Effective communication builds trust, rapport, and helps prevent misunderstandings.

Usually, I work with non-professional models. I photograph ordinary people who are not accustomed to the camera, who haven't learned to pose. It's crucial to prepare in advance - I send the client a mood board, compiled, for example, on Pinterest, with examples of poses. We discuss it in detail so that I understand what the model will like during the shoot. This is especially important because I work with fantasy images and fancy poses. For someone not used to being photographed, it's challenging, but I love challenges! During the shoot, I communicate a lot with the model and don't start taking photos right away. This helps the model relax and forget about their fears.

Navigating discomfort in photo portrayals demands sensitivity, communication, and professionalism. Establish open dialogue, listen actively, respect privacy and consent, educate about intent, collaborate on solutions, offer apologies if needed, and learn from experiences. Through these steps, photographers can navigate with empathy and integrity, striving to create a positive and respectful experience for all involved parties.

It can be helpful to show the subject a few of the images to build confidence and make sure you're on the same page. Explain that yo won't be reviewing every image (which would take the flow out of the session) but just at specific times (change of lighting, clothing or set as example).

Es ist wichtig, dein Motiv oder die Vorlage von Beginn an in den Prozess einzubeziehen, besonders wenn es sich unwohl fühlt. Arbeite wie mit Schauspielern, lass es teilhaben und lass die Erfahrungen mit einfließen. Zeig ihm die Fotos schnell nach dem Szenario und frag nach seiner Zustimmung, bevor du sie anlegst und ein neues Szenario beginnst. Das zeigt Respekt für seine Privatsphäre und verhindert rechtliche Probleme. Sei bereit, deine Entscheidungen zu erklären und Änderungen vorzunehmen, falls nötig. Biete Raum für Feedback und sei offen für Anpassungen. Wenn dein Model unzufrieden ist, respektiere das und nutze die Fotos nie ohne Freigabe. So sorgst du für ein gutes Verhältnis. Dein Model ist der Star, du bist nur der Fotograf.

Respecting the subject's consent involves explaining the purpose of the photograph and how it will be used. Provide them with the option to review and approve the final image before sharing or publishing. Clearly outline any intended audience or platforms. If they remain uncomfortable, be prepared to honor their request to not use the photo. Always prioritize consent and establish a collaborative and transparent process to ensure everyone involved feels respected and heard.

Show your subjects selected images during the shoot, seeking their input and ensuring they feel a sense of agency in the process. This fosters collaboration, allowing adjustments in real-time based on their comfort level. By actively involving the subject and obtaining their consent throughout, you not only empower them but also build trust, resulting in a more positive and comfortable photo experience.

Respect for your subject's comfort is paramount. After the shoot, promptly show them the photos and seek their consent before publishing or sharing. This not only respects their privacy but also avoids potential legal or ethical complications. Be prepared to explain your choices, listen to their thoughts, and be open to adjustments. If concerns persist, respect their decision and refrain from using the photos without explicit permission.

La comunicación entre el modelo y el fotógrafo es muy importante, durante el proceso debe de ser clara y precisa y deberás conocer cuáles son los puntos a favor del modelo y los puntos que a él no le parecen tan favorables y encontrar un punto donde el quedé satisfecho

Consent is where everything begins. If you don't have their permission, don't just share the photo at random, and especially not for commercial gain. Show some of the photos that you think you will finalise from the shoot to build their confidence in you and give reasons as to why you believe it's good.

I would generate float it by the person to get their consent for the use of photos. This is considerate and they always appreciate having a first look

La communication c'est une forme d'expression d'où l'importance du dialogue lors d'une prise de vue. Il faut faire parler son imagination d'où l'importance de faire un auto-portrait du sujet en n'oubliant pas l'essentiel l'objectif de réussir son reportage mais en respectant les désirs du sujet. Tout repose sur une explication claire et précise. Rien ne doit être figé, il faut s'adapter à chaque situation. Demander l'accord d'une personne pour valider une photo ou une vidéo peut s'avérer parfois nécessaire. L'éthique c'est aussi savoir accepter le respect des choix en matière de photos et de vidéos et s'adapter.

I shoot tethered into a computer, so my client and I can review photos as we go along. If they don't like something about the photos, we discuss it and make adjustments until they're happy. I tell them that if they see something they hate, to let me know, I'll delete it and no one else will ever have to see it. When it comes to retouching, I only change things they want to have changed. I ask during the shoot that if there's anything they want me to leave alone or change, to let me know. I will sometimes post or add to my portfolio images my clients didn't choose to purchase, but I do not use photos my clients don't like. I want the photos I make for them to be something they love, not something they're embarrassed about or unhappy with.

Es ist wichtig, dass dein Model den künstlerischen Prozess hinter den Fotos versteht. Es wird nicht nur schön aussehen, sondern auch einen wichtigen Beitrag leisten. Manchmal fühlt es sich unwohl, weil es nicht weiß, wie bestimmte Techniken das Endergebnis beeinflussen. Damit sich dein Model wohlfühlt, sorge für eine entspannte und einfühlsame Atmosphäre. Deshalb ist es gut, auch die technischen und kreativen Aspekte zu erklären. Zum Beispiel, wie Licht, Winkel und Farben das Bild gestalten. Du kannst auch Beispiele zeigen, um es zu verdeutlichen. Das hilft, deine Entscheidungen zu erklären und den Wert deiner Fotos zu zeigen. Durch diese Aufklärung wird das Model jeden Prozess besser verstehen und sich besser damit identifizieren können.

Before the shoot, guide subjects through the collaborative and artistic process, sharing stories of past subjects initially uneasy but ultimately satisfied. During the shoot, inform and guide the subject, providing occasional previews. Openly discussing temporary discomfort demystifies the process, making them an active participant. This approach instills confidence, fostering a positive experience and satisfactory outcomes for both you and the subject.

Discomfort may stem from a lack of understanding about the artistic process. Educate your subject on the technical and creative aspects of photography. Explain how elements like lighting, angles, composition, and editing influence the final result. Share examples of other photographers' work to illustrate your style and showcase the various techniques used in the industry. Bridging this knowledge gap can help your subject appreciate the artistic decisions behind the photos.

I agree, in addition during this process we can discuss what makes them uncomfortable and brainstorming a range of options, solutions and make choices as to how we circumnavigate their discomfort. That might take place before the shoot in styling, during with positioning or after with editing.

Remind the client that the photos will go through further processing. Photoshop and lightroom can be used to remove small blemishes and enhance the image.

Know your work, know your worth. Important beyond belief, this is. If your client/subject/muse knows about the process, they will be far more willing to experiment and bear discomfort for the sake of a good image.

La photographie est un art créatif qu'il faut savoir valoriser? De ce fait il faut bien sûr être capable d'écrire un véritable scénario visuel et être en mesure de pouvoir l'expliquer.

Siempre que alguien me manifiesta que quiere una sesión de fotos conmigo, primero le pregunto: ¿para qué quiere las fotos?, ¿por qué le llamaron la atención mis fotos?, ¿qué desea transmitir a través de las fotos? ¿hay algún ejemplo que le guste?. Luego, hago un estudio del proyecto y los valores que se trasmitirán, enviándole ideas y composiciones que voy diseñando previamente, a veces voy al lugar y hago fotos antes con mi asistente. Al momento de editar en Adobe Lightroom, le voy enviando al cliente ejemplos rápidos de como quedaría el acabado a nivel de luz, sombra, contraste, saturación, etc . Hay veces que los clientes nos elijen por motivos muy subjetivos y es por ello que hay que ser empático e involucrarlos en el proceso.

In the initial discussion with your client, let's discuss your project plan and style of capturing great images. This will likely differ from other photographers, but explain your overall goal, e.g. Images to create a story about their journey from A to B, etc. This will ensure that if you show any of the images to them, they understand that you're creating this story, and they're not many odd images.

Use filters and photoshop and they’ll love you forever. The thing is, people especially women could care less about the real thing. They want you to help them escape the person they’ve become and give them the idea of who they are or used to be inside. Youth never releases us but aging’s mirror constantly reminds us that we are no longer young. Occasionally the camera makes us rethink that if done well and thoughtfully. Amicably means never show them a reminder of the truth which if not thought out can be very damaging.

If someone is uncomfortable with their portrayal in a photo you've taken, it's important to empathize and address their concerns. Listen to their specific issues, offer to discuss potential edits or removal, and seek a resolution that respects their feelings while considering any applicable agreements or permissions for the photograph.

All of these are great prompts are valuable, but this is my go-to. If I can connect to the subject and let them know that I empathize with how uncomfortable it is to be in front of the lens, I find it really helps them feel more at ease. A bit of empath and acknowledgment of their anxiety, followed by compliments and encouragement, goes a long way.

Es ist wichtig, sich in das Model und seine Gefühle einzufühlen, besonders wenn es sich unwohl fühlt. Versuche zu verstehen, warum es mit den Fotos nicht zufrieden ist. Dränge nicht zu sehr darauf, erzwing nichts. Vielleicht ist es unsicher über sein Aussehen oder hat ein anderes Selbstbild. Manche sorgen sich auch um die Wahrnehmung durch andere oder haben kulturelle Gründe, die Fotos abzulehnen. Egal, was der Grund ist, zeig Verständnis für die Gefühle deines Models. Lass es spüren, dass du dich um es kümmerst und seinen Standpunkt respektierst. Wenn du dich einfühlen kannst, können Spannungen abgebaut und Lösungen gefunden werden, die passen. Das schafft eine Verbindung und ermöglicht eine Zusammenarbeit beim Lösen von Problemen.

I love taking portraits, raw ones. Especially, the blurry ones, wherein I can put in life in those people. I do street storytelling through portraits. What usually works is a smile followed by questions making them the centre of the story. Especially, people from villages, who are not used to camera (always the best kinda portraits) Another experience I recently did a Boudoir for someone who is uncomfortable even in changing clothes in front of a roommate. It was her birthday. And, she wanted to do something that she'd not otherwise even think of doing. This helped - * Getting her into character by directing scenarios (eg. imagine you are SEEN by someone you are dating) * Sharing my own experiences of self-portraits, * PATIENCE

Talk. Just have a conversation. People have good days and bad ones, good experiences and terrible ones. If you're willing to speak to them it'll take a lot of pressure off, and ensure everyone's on the same page.

Empathy goes along way in this sense. It is important to take into consideration how others may feel about a photo especially depending on what is going on in the photo. Getting their permission before hand and showing them the photo goes a long way. However, if care and consideration are not given to how they feel it could come across the wrong way and still make them uncomfortable. Take into account how they are feeling and come up with a way to explain the reasoning, necessity, or importance of the photo.

Always accept that the customer is uncomfortable, take ownership of the issue. Look for an alternative that gives the subject comfort, then ask to add whatever will bring the original as close as possible. Get affirmation that the subject is now happy and comfortable.

Lorsque que l'on prend une photo, l'objectif est de retranscrire une émotion. Une photo c'est une forme d'art visuel qui permet de délivrer un message. Ce n'est pas forcément la capture de l'instantanéité tout dépend de ce que l'on souhaite exprimer, il faut parfois faire preuve d'empathie et d'ingéniosité dans l'art visuel.

It's essential to ensure your subject feels at ease, so I'd suggest having general and often casual discussions along the way. This will often make them feel calm and relaxed, almost ignoring the fact that you have a camera.

If you set boundaries, descriptions and show examples at the start of the process, the negotiation at the end is going to be limited. Provide reasons without letting ego get in the way and you'll have a cleaner discussion.

Images are an like a series of moments in ones life, so when both parties are contented about the output everything flows positively. The aspect of this all is to ensure that your client understands your perspective same to you toward the client satisfactory.

Wenn dein Model sich trotzdem unwohl mit den Fotos fühlt, ist es wichtig, eine Lösung zu finden, mit der beide Seiten einverstanden sind. Das könnte bedeuten, dass du einen Mittelweg zwischen deiner künstlerischen Vision und den Vorlieben deines Models findest. Vielleicht bietest du verschiedene Optionen an oder lässt das Model Einfluss auf die Bearbeitung nehmen. Oder du beschränkst die Nutzung der Fotos auf bestimmte Zwecke oder begrenzt ihre Verbreitung. Verhandeln und Kompromisse eingehen kann helfen, eure Beziehung zu bewahren und dabei deine Verantwortung als Fotograf zu respektieren. Es geht darum, gemeinsam eine Lösung zu finden, die für beide Seiten fair und akzeptabel ist.

I had a client a while back who was very beautiful and very photogenic, but she was so admittedly self conscious that she was only happy with about 6 photos. We both saw this as a victory. I keep my prices lower by not doing heavy edits to images, but to keep my client happy I put in some extra time at no charge on a few of the photos.

Par expérience, une phographie lorsqu'elle représente un sujet pour accompagner un article doit être authentique. Elle est là pour accompagner un article de presse, elle sera donc en lien avec l'article. La photographie c'est une façon de retranscrire une vision artistique, il faut que ce soit réfléchi. Il n'existe pas forcément d'improvisation dans la photo car il peut y avoir parfois une mise en scène mais il faut que ce soit en adéquation avec l'idée et le projet. Pour moi une photo doit-être vrai. Certaines, certains répondraient peut-être que c'est l'ironie de la liberté d'expression mais pour moi c'est une part de vérité une photo donc autant qu'elle soit réalisée avec finesse et justesse.

However long it may take, try to build a friendship with the client to try and break the fear of being behind the camera. Alongside that, try different angles, even if it's side on or behind, to bring a difference to your set of images and make them feel more at ease

Very true, negotiating a solution that respects both your artistic vision and your subject's preferences is crucial. This could involve adjusting the use of certain images, agreeing on specific contexts for their use, or even re-shooting parts of the project. For instance, you might limit the use of certain photos to non-commercial projects or agree to give your subject the right to approve final versions before publication. This collaborative approach not only maintains a positive relationship with your subject but also upholds ethical standards in photography. Balancing creative control with empathy ensures both parties feel heard and respected.

I have had several clients stating that they are uncomfortable in front of the camera and that most likely the images will not turn out so great. In that case I use humour and spontaneity to create a fun but intimate environment in which we are allowed to experiment and play. I let my clients make faces, let them yawn, stick their tongue out etc. I also join them in the process, while I keep shooting. that usually relaxes a great deal of the tension. Then I talk about their business, what they will use the photos for or ask for anecdotes from earlier photo shoots. That can help to take their attention away from being in front of the camera and Im able to catch more natural, authentic looking portraits.

First, it's not only important to acknowledge what they don't like, but also understand it - you don't have to agree with it. I would then work with them to create images that address their concerns. I often tell my clients there's no right or wrong when it comes to photography. What one person thinks is beautiful and artistic, another may think the opposite. And at the end of the day, the client (who is paying) needs to be happy, or at least satisfied. I also would try to educate the client as to why a certain look may not be as effective as another approach, and show them examples if possible.

Es ist klug, bei kommerziellen Shootings ein B-Model einzuplanen und mit einem A/B-Model-Ansatz zu arbeiten. Das erlaubt Flexibilität am Set, da du immer eine alternative Option hast. Ein B-Model als Backup einzubeziehen, ermöglicht Anpassungen in Echtzeit, sei es aufgrund unerwarteter Situationen oder um verschiedene Konzepte auszuprobieren. Diese Herangehensweise unterstützt eine reibungslose Produktion und gibt dir Spielraum, um das Beste aus dem Shooting herauszuholen, egal welche Herausforderungen auftreten könnten.

Make it casual. Find a commonality. I usually start with “what’s your favorite hobbies/activities”. Then shoot away. Tell them you’re just checking light during conversation. Some of the candids end up being the best!

This can be tricky if artistic expressions and styles are not well communicated before hand. Each creative (photographer) has unique styles they are known for. If the model (individual) is not aware of such style, It is best to educate them and also suggest fellow creatives to them who might best deliver the style they prefer especially if their taste and choice does not align with creative styles.

Nature is not going to make things easy for you, so if you're going to shoot outdoors, practice makes perfect if one can learn to adapt.

Todo lo que sentimos es expresado por nuestro rostro y cuerpo de ahí que trabajar con lo emocional ayude. Haz que tu modelo traiga a su mente momentos relacionados con lo que buscas comunicar y mágicamente lo lograrás

Tout dépend du rôle de la personne dans la prise de vues. Si il s'agit d'un portrait - qui donc vise à le représenter auprès d'autres personnes, dont il est le sujet - alors tout ce qui est dit ci dessus est juste. Mais il arrive souvent que les gens qui posent soient plus des "figurants" que des sujets, et que le but de l'image soit plus de représenter leur rôle social ou professionnel par exemple, ils sont alors plus dans la position de l'acteur que dans la sphère intime. Et une fois cette idée partagée, tout va mieux!

Having experience with photographing graduates, I find it advantageous to talk with the client about their best friend, asking about funny memories, it usually evokes genuine smiles. One step further, if the client is shy, I invite their best friend along as support.

Une photo pour moi c'est le reflet d'une contribution artistique, je peux en parler en ayant été correspondant local de presse, rédacteur, pigiste, photographe pour le plus grand quotidien Français régional durant 26 ans. Pour moi la photo,c'est de l'observation avec une certaine forme de rigueur dans le raisonnement avec des exigences et de l'objectivité. Un photographe on peut le comparer à un chercheur. Son travail nécessite une part de réflexion pour dire, pour exprimer, pour montrer. On sait néanmoins qu'un photographe est un homme parmi des hommes mais il doit rester un témoin neutre de la société; Par son choix des sujets, par son analyse et par son style, il doit savoir respecter la vérité et l'authenticité.