I like to spend a few minutes with my subjects before we actually start shooting.  I’m genuinely interested in people, so this part is enjoyable.  We just talk.  I like to get a feeling for who they are, how they move and gesture, what makes them smile.  More than anything, I want them to relax and feel that they can trust me.  It takes a certain amount of trust to be in front of my lens, and to take my kind of direction.  My subjects have to be willing to let go a little.

Do I want to capture the “true” person, or their innermost hopes and fears?  Not usually.  Trust me, you do not always want to know your subjects that well.  But, I do want to capture something about them in that moment.  Maybe it’s a playfulness, or their sexy or seductive side, or maybe just a quiet likeness.

In the end, I’m there to create a picture featuring the subject.  I want my subject to participate fully.  I want them to share their ideas, too.  When photographer and subject work honestly and fearlessly together, great pictures can happen.

Pictured:  Jordan just having fun in front of the camera.  It doesn’t all have to be serious business.  This is how some of the best photos come about.