Kyle Hepp

August 10, 2010

We’re heading out for Spain in about an hour to shoot a wedding in Santander (well actually by the time you’re reading this, we’re probably touching down). I’m so excited, but apparently my body is not. I got sick last night and am now in a state of misery. Some cold medicine should help, but man, the plane ride is not going to be fun!

Anyway, just wanted to post a quick couple FAQ’s because it’s been a while since I’ve done one these.

FAQ #1. Is there any way you could do a portfolio review for me?

NO. Ok, that’s a lie. I actually already did review the portfolio of the person who sent that email. But while I’m happy to help other photographers, I’m really starting to get sick of doing them. The reason being — I get these emails fairly often, but a lot of people who ask for a portfolio review never respond with so much as a thanks afterward. If I have reviewed your portfolio after you asked me to and you never responded, YOU ARE DEAD TO ME. My time is valuable too and saying thank you, at the very least, is just a common courtesy. I almost always say the same things in the portfolio reviews that I do — things I wish other people had told me in the beginning, like stay away from harsh light, your website needs some sprucing up, watch your compositions, etc. Maybe some people think that’s too mean. But don’t ask for constructive criticism if you don’t want to hear it.

FAQ #2. Can I second shoot for you?

Mmmm, probably not. The thing is, I already have a second shooter. His name is Seba. I’m married to him and he comes to almost all my shoots and weddings. Once a guy asked to be my second shooter and when I told him I didn’t need anyone right now, he wrote back insinuating that I don’t let other people second shoot for me because I’m scared of the competition. That’s definitely not true. I could care less about the competition. I’m out there getting the best photos I can for myself and my clients and as long as my clients are happy, nothing else matters.

So that’s not the reason. The reason is (aside from already having a Seba to work with me) if you’ve sent an email, that doesn’t mean I know you. If you had your own business would you take someone along as a second shooter that you don’t even know? Anyone I bring along to work with my clients, reflects on me. So I’d rather not take the risk.

When someone asks to second shoot for me, I usually say, “No, but if you want we can go out for coffee and talk a little about the industry.” 99% of the time I don’t hear back. If you can’t be bothered to meet with me for coffee, why should I take the risk of taking a stranger on a photo shoot or to a wedding?

So those are the FAQ’s of the day.

Anyway, I know that often new photographers get angry when professional photographers don’t respond to their requests for portfolio reviews or to second shoot, but I thought I’d give you the other perspective so you know why that is.