All about Simply C – Social media Q and A session

Cherry the photographer Q&A

I recently opened the pages of my social media accounts to my lovely friends and followers for an impromptu Q&A session – and they didn’t disappoint! This blog is a summary of the Simply wonderful and probing questions I received and my responses…

“What types of projects do you enjoy working on the most?”

When you love your job as much as I do this can be a difficult question to answer. I truly do love them all – if I had to pick then I would say that the repeat clients are always a delight. I feel as though I am building trust and adding a little something every time I go back. The clients get so much out of me that way and I feel like a valued member of their team.

“How would you describe your photography style?”

I think it’s quite difficult to describe a style – probably easier done by using some of the emotions and feelings I hope to provoke: natural, relaxed… involved, in-depth… light and fresh are words that come to mind.

“Are there specific techniques or approaches you prefer for certain types of projects?”

Again, one of the things that I love is the variety of my assignments. Truly, no two days are ever the same (even when I am returning to a previous client).

“How do you ensure your work aligns with a client’s brand identity and vision?”

I’ve been doing this job for a long time – but I am always learning. I also bring with me the experience gathered from hours behind the lens, as well as time spent on discussing, exploring and learning about people and their businesses. I’ve learned to ask many commercially pertinent questions of my clients and really understand what the images are going to achieve for them so that I can align the finished product to their objectives. It also means that when I am working with someone for the first time, or maybe a new business owner I can help them find a new commercial direction and understanding that they may not have developed yet.

“What is your process for collaborating with clients on a project?”

Talking, discussing, planning and understanding! I always have a pre-shoot briefing session with a client so that we are both on the same page and I know what they want to achieve and how the images will be used. But the talking and communicating continues to make sure that the outcome is as right for them as possible.

“How do you ensure that the client’s vision is translated into the final images?”

This relates back to the previous question and the importance of communicating. Concepts are discussed beforehand; images are reviewed as we go and everyone knows what we are going to do…plus a little bit of freestyling by me whilst no one is looking always tends to capture the natural elements my clients like.

“How do you stay updated on the latest photography trends and technologies?”

I can’t deny that it can hard when technology moves so quickly; however, being aware of what’s new is important and last Christmas I invested in my equipment and upgraded to the Canon mirrorless offering, so it really is pertinent.  But what is really important to me is understanding the economy and the issues my clients face in their industry – hopefully I come in and help them put in place new strategies or strengthen their branding to really gain the edge in their market.

“Are there specific tools you like to work with or software you find particularly valuable for your work?”

The Canon R5 is my new baby…although I am finding it hard to let go of my Canon 5DMkII as it is a stunning camera and the F lenses are superb…. I use Adobe Lightroom Classic for editing – so straightforward and easy to use.

“What is your typical turnaround time for delivering edited images?”

I quote two weeks but generally I turn around within that time, depending on my schedule. A lot of photographers now outsource their editing, but I feel the editing is just as important as the setting up of the image, the light, and the way in which I capture a shot. Someone else can manipulate the editing software brilliantly but it is my eye and vision of the resulting image that no one else can produce.

“How do you handle revisions or feedback from clients?”

With open arms!! I insist on it…feedback helps the client for the next shoot and helps me immensely and eradicates any areas I may need to improve upon. I am forever learning and improving, I hope.

“In your experience, why are professional images important for businesses?”

How much time do you have for me to answer this? I think that professional images are Simply priceless. They can really set a business apart from their competitors. They can tell your audience so much about your product and your people in just a few seconds. And a key part of that message is ‘we value our products and our people, and we’re invested’. I honestly can’t tell you enough how valuable professional images are – my blogs are packed full of examples and insights… Please do write in if you have any more questions for the next session of Cherry the photographer Q&A.