To be successful, a fashion photographer
must be an exceptional problem solver. As with most professions, to be
at the top means one must roll with the punches and become a creative
problem solver, overcoming obstacles both seen and unseen. We have
learned that this is no longer no mans land and that our clients and
team expect this quality from us.

Being a professional means you can consistently create an exceptional
result, in any condition – not only when conditions are exceptional. We
must shoot, sometimes, when we are feeling less than artistic.

Many times, whether on location or studio, problems must be expected.
I know what you are thinking, “what a negative thought process”. I
would think that too except I have been a professional photographer for
more than two decades and I can tell you, either you are prepared or you
are not.

Many of my clients come to me and ask me about why I brought so much
equipment or why we didn’t use a certain piece of equipment. Just like I
have many lenses and camera bodies I have modifiers, scrims, reflectors
and an entire myriad of stands and configurations. Most of these are
not for use in optimal conditions; quite the contrary. In Florida, as
well as many places I seem to shoot, inclement weather can pop up at a
moment’s notice. Also sun can end up not being where I want it or the
intensity not what I need for a certain shot. Theses are the
circumstances you must prepare for. As the leader of the team you are
expected to solve all of life’s little problems.

Do you have some hairpins, duct tape, 2 sided tape, clamps of all
shapes and sizes, Velcro, extra swimsuits, etc.? There really is no
telling what can and will happen on a shoot. If you don’t cover it you
better make sure someone else will. Much of the well being of the shoot
depends on your team and talent feeling great and that you are in
control makes everyone feel warm fuzzies. This is one reason I try to
find out what everyone likes to drink. Even something that small can
make someone really feel like you care and in return they will give you
their best.

The other day, I was on a remote location in Key Biscayne and my
model had to be up against this banyan tree, which was infested with
bull ants.   Well I didn’t have any repellent but my makeup artist did!
It takes a team, a trusted team, to make things happen and everyone must
go beyond their expected duties to be prepared. I call this
professionalism and this all goes into the final product of these types
of shoots.

The following day, we had another amazing day in Key Biscayne. This
day ended up being one of the hottest and most miserable days I have
ever been on location. I was sweating so much that I feared changing
lenses for the sweat getting into the camera body. My makeup artist and
myself, as well as the crew and models had to make adjustments in our
normal protocol to successfully negotiate the obstacles at hand. The
heat was unbearable, sandspurs and ants, painful, and the tide was
exceptionally high but we made it work.

Make certain that your team and you have collaborated before and you
all know each other’s propensities, shortcomings, and idiosyncrasies. It
makes the shoot go smoothly and gives you the best chances for a
magical result.

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