Styled Portraits
What are they?
* Highly planned and curated portraits.
* Involve elaborate sets, props, wardrobe, makeup, and hair styling.
* Often tell a story or convey a specific theme.
* Require a team of people (stylist, makeup artist, hair stylist, set designer, etc.).
Pros:
* Creative Control: You have complete control over the final image, allowing you to bring your vision to life.
* Unique and Eye-Catching: Stand out from the crowd with images that are visually arresting and memorable.
* Higher Perceived Value: Clients may be willing to pay more for styled portraits due to the time, effort, and resources involved.
* Portfolio Building: Excellent for showcasing your artistic abilities and attracting clients interested in a similar style.
* Potential for Publication: Styled portraits are more likely to be featured in magazines, blogs, and other publications.
* Explore Creativity: Push your creative boundaries and experiment with different styles and techniques.
* Can tell a story: More control over creating a narrative and mood.
* Higher profit margin: If you can sell this service at a premium price.
Cons:
* High Cost: Can be expensive to hire a team, rent studio space, and purchase props and wardrobe.
* Time-Consuming: Requires significant planning, preparation, and execution.
* Logistical Challenges: Coordinating schedules, managing budgets, and overseeing the team can be stressful.
* Reliance on Others: The success of the shoot depends on the skills and expertise of your team.
* Can Feel Inauthentic: May not appeal to clients who prefer a more natural and candid look.
* Risk of Feeling Dated: Trends in styling and fashion change quickly, so styled portraits can become outdated.
* Narrower Appeal: Might only attract clients interested in a specific theme or style.
Natural/Lifestyle/Candid Portraits (Not Styled)
What are they?
* Focus on capturing the subject's personality and natural beauty in a more authentic setting.
* Minimal posing and direction.
* Emphasis on natural light and real emotions.
* Wardrobe is typically provided by the subject and reflects their personal style.
Pros:
* Lower Cost: Requires less investment in props, wardrobe, and styling.
* Simpler Logistics: Easier to plan and execute, especially for solo photographers.
* More Authentic and Relatable: Appeals to clients who want natural-looking portraits that capture their true selves.
* Timeless Quality: Less likely to become outdated as they focus on genuine moments and emotions.
* Greater Accessibility: More accessible to a wider range of clients.
* Focus on the Subject: The emphasis is on the person, not the styling.
* Less Pressure: Generally, less pressure on the photographer and subject to achieve perfection.
* Faster Turnaround: Usually faster to edit and deliver natural portraits.
Cons:
* Less Control: You have less control over the final image as you are relying on natural light, the subject's wardrobe, and their natural expressions.
* Can Be Less Visually Exciting: May not be as visually striking as styled portraits.
* Requires Strong Communication Skills: Need to be able to connect with the subject and make them feel comfortable.
* Subject Dependent: The success of the shoot relies heavily on the subject's personality and willingness to be photographed.
* Less Opportunity for Creative Experimentation: Limited opportunities to experiment with different styles and techniques.
* Potentially Lower Profit Margin: May be difficult to charge as much as you would for styled portraits.
* May lack a unique edge: Can be harder to differentiate your work from others.
Key Questions to Ask Yourself:
* What is my artistic vision? Do you enjoy creating elaborate scenes and characters, or do you prefer capturing natural moments?
* Who is my target audience? What kind of portraits are they looking for?
* What are my skills and resources? Do you have the skills and resources to execute styled portraits, or are you better suited to natural portraiture?
* What are my business goals? Do you want to build a high-end luxury brand, or do you want to appeal to a wider audience?
* What is my comfort level? Do you feel comfortable directing a team, or do you prefer working independently?
* What are my limitations: What equipment do you have, what is your budget and how much time can you dedicate to one photoshoot?
Possible Approaches:
* Specialize in one: Choose the approach that best aligns with your strengths and interests.
* Offer both: Cater to a wider range of clients by offering both styled and natural portrait options.
* Hybrid Approach: Combine elements of both styled and natural portraiture. For example, you could provide some styling guidance but allow the subject's personality to shine through.
* Focus on a specific niche: Specializing in a particular type of styled or natural portraiture (e.g., vintage portraits, maternity portraits, family portraits) can help you attract a dedicated audience.
In Conclusion:
There is no right or wrong answer. The best approach depends on your individual circumstances. Carefully consider the pros and cons of each option and choose the path that aligns with your goals, skills, and passions. Experiment! Try both and see what resonates with you and what your clients respond to. Good luck!