There are many etiquette questions clients may have that can sometimes feel daunting to ask - one that comes up often is whether or not the client can be present for the shoot itself. While working both directly with clients, or indirectly with ad agencies, we absolutely encourage that the client is present during the shoot. One of the main pillars to our success is clear communication, and there is no better way to communicate than in person, while things are in motion. The client being present for the shoot means we can all rest assured that we have captured exactly what is needed by the end of the shoot.
We’ve even shaped our tool kit with client presence in mind by investing in technical gear that simplifies the viewing process during the actual shoot. For most of our photo shoots we use a device called a CamRanger, which is essentially an app based wireless transmitter which outputs the images we are capturing from the camera to an iPad and/or iPhone etc. This real time technology allows us, and the client to view the images as we are capturing them. This device has a host of bells and whistles, which we love, but its most valuable asset is providing instant visuals for the client to then give feedback on. Due to this approach, you can leave the shoot with the knowledge that we have captured exactly what you need.
Being present for a shoot has of course been affected by the global pandemic the world is currently facing. Through 2020 and now 2021 we have continued to adapt as restrictions call for, but still encourage team members to be present in a safe and controlled way. Currently, you can still be present while adhering to the mandated protocol of wearing a mask, practising social distancing & allotted gathering amounts etc.
In this climate rules often change, but we have become proficient at adapting and pivoting to be able to work within the rules at any given time.
All in all, asking to be present for the shoot is always an appropriate question to ask - and I would go even further by saying it is something that is universally accepted and encouraged. You are just as much a part of this aspect of the project as your photographer, and your eye is helpful!
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