Do You Want Fries With That?

This is an article that was recently published in the American Society of Photographers magazine. Originally, it was intended for photographers. But with a few changes, it makes for good food for thought for those thinking about finding a photographer.



In great portraiture, the camera is the equal sign. The person on the back side of the camera becomes equal to the person on the front side. When that happens, I am doing my job. Of course, in reality, that is only part of the job. Equally important aspects are lighting, posing, composition and key or feel of the portrait are all elements that need to blend in harmony. But for now, let's address the first element.

Let's step away from the camera for a moment. I want you to think about the last time you went to your favorite eating establishment. Were you greeted warmly when you walked in? Did the host make small talk with you that seemed genuine? Or, did he look at you and say, "Just the two of you?", as if it was a guess as to why you were there? When the waitress (or waiter) came for your drink order, did she simply read off the specials, or did she describe them in detail, adding personal commentary about her favorite dish and why she liked it? When you've finished your meal and the waitress comes back, does she ask if you would like some dessert? Or, does she bring a tray of mouth-watering treats for your eyes while she tells you about a few of them? Has your server made you feel as if you are very important and equal to the splendid surroundings?

By now, I am sure that you have figured it out, you know that we are discussing "The Experience". If you are hungry, you can walk into a fast food joint, have a tray slapped down on the counter in front of you and watch as a couple of high school kids dressed in uniforms scramble around with headsets to fulfill your order. In most cases, you can hand the person behind the register a ten dollar bill and get change back, pick up your tray and have a meal.



Or. . ., you can call your favorite place, make reservations, show up at the agreed upon time, be greeted warmly and escorted to your table. "The Experience" will be an important part of the meal and is one reason why the restaurant is your favorite place to eat. At the end of the night, you might spend more than ten dollars on the tip, but over all the end result is essentially the same . . . you need food to fill you up. The cost of the meal is off set by the fact that you feel important; you feel as if you have been invited to a friend's place for dinner.

People need photography for different reasons, but those reasons almost always have a common thread. It is usually a life defining moment. Marriage, a baby, a high school senior, the list is endless. With such a momentous occasion at hand, think about making the most of "The Experience". It is your moment. You deserve a little more than luke warm fries and a burger wrapped in wax paper. So the next time you talk to a photographer think about this; do you want fries with that?