Today, I'd like to talk about the relationship between a photographer and a cosplayer/model. I've been browsing through photos left and right on facebook, and I have seen a number of awe-inspiring shots that would make me think of how they're able to do it and can't help comparing their works from mine.
Sharing and listening to stories lets one learn and improve, so I try to chat people up whenever I have the time through threads and at times, personal messages. I ask how they do it and occassionally, I receive PM's as well (It fills me up whenever people appreciate my works). I especially like talking about whether people are fun to have shoots with or not especially when I want to join them in a future project.
I find this important because I would rather have a fun memory than stacks of photos I can't say I enjoyed. Fortunately for me, I don't think I've ever had a bad experience with people in shoots(At the very least, no unnecessary drama). At the end of the day, I just want to have a smile on my face and think to myself, "That was fun".
And so, I would like to share some of my thoughts on how to build a healthy relationship with the people you'll be with in your future plans. I cosplay and take photos, so I'll tackle both. But, I'll start with being for the photographers.
and vice-versa (thanks, bigpao!)
(Meaning, they don't owe us anything for being invited for a shoot. Be happy, not high and mighty)
- We are all equals
(The effort we put in a shoot is just as much what the cosplayers give, if not less.)
- Patience is truly a virtue
(There are times when we just find it hard to get that one shot. Be patient, don't lash out at your subject)
- Communication is key
(If there's a shot you want, talk to them. Suggest what you envision and reach a compromise because there will be times when it may be too hard, given the circumstances)
- Controlled risk, less injury
(It's cool to be risky, but it would be wise to know your limitations. Getting that shot is not wise at the cost of a neck or two)
- Be thankful
(For the time, the energy, and the lessons you learned for the shoot)
- credit the cosplayer
(Without the subject, there will be no photo. It's a collaborative effort, plain and simple.)
Now, I move on for the cosplayers~
(We don't need that many photographers for a shoot, especially when there are only 1 or 2 cosplayers. It can be rude to the photographers, IMO)
- Photographers get tired too
( Them seemingly just clicking their cameras doesn't mean they don't get tired. It's especially mentally draining because one has to think of a way to capture you the best way possible, lights, angles, etc.)
- Respect begets respect
(You give, you get.)
- Plan ahead and plan together
(Think of good locations aesthetically and logistically. Far away places are worth it if they're that good and if both parties are willing. This actually goes with the photographer as well.)
- Give ample time for preparations
(Short-notice shoots are stressful. More time, better end results. Get pegs/ideas. Again, this goes both ways)
- Be earlier than your photographer
(Do keep in mind that you still have to dress up, put make-up/wig on. It will save you valuable time and potentially good lighting when shooting outdoors with natural light)
- If you're not yet satisfied, ask politely
(Avoid overfrowning and showing vast amounts of displeasure because it can affect the work of your photographer.)
- credit your photographer
(No need for further explanation)
That pretty much covers what I want to say for now. I'll share some of my collaborations below. I hope you guys got some tidbits from this and I wish to see awesome works from everyone! Till next time, be happy!
(P.S. If you want to have a healthy discussion with what I wrote, do feel free to either post a comment below or a PM on FB if you like.)