Learning how to communicate with your clients is an important part of being a photographer.  Listening to them and creating a session that encompasses them is the way to really make their experience special.

Even though this senior’s english wasn’t the best, Kelli at Purple Tree Photography was still able to communicate with her and create a session full of her personality!

Check out the beautiful session below and read what Kelli had to say about this session!  Thanks for sharing Kelli!!

What was your inspiration for this photo shoot?  I always have a phone or email consultation with my clients before their session.  I find my inspiration from their personalities and the environment they were drawn to enough to choose for their session.  This session was a bit different, however, because Manaka’s English isn’t the best (her words) so all of our contact before the session was through email and mostly with her parents who clearly adore their daughter.

Where did this shoot take place?  Greenmead Historic Park in Livonia, Michigan

Did you collaborate with this senior to come up with the clothing and/or concept for this shoot?  I include a list of do’s and don’ts in my welcome packet, however, Manaka loves fashion and is hoping to work in the fashion industry for her career so she made my job easy!

What camera, lens and equipment were used for this shoot? I use the Canon 5D MarkII, the 85mm 1.2, 50mm 1.2, 24mm 1.4 and a reflector. 

What time of day were these taken? Late afternoon.

Can you share any post-processing techniques used when editing this session? My post-processing is fairly simple and quick but, of course, depends on the image and what I feel would enhance it. I do use some of the totally rad actions.

What is your favorite thing about this session? I had such a great time with Manaka and her family. I’m fascinated with people from other countries so I loved chatting with Manaka during the session. Plus she is just so gorgeous and has great style!

What do you want this session to convey about this senior and about your senior photography style? That she’s a gorgeous person inside and out. I like to think that I’m goofy enough that I relax my clients, they have fun and enjoy their session and shows in their images.

What is one tip you can share with other photographers regarding photographing seniors? When you get a great shot show them the back of your camera. Once they see for themselves how amazing they look they loosen up, gain confidence and believe you when you’re telling them how beautiful they look.