On Set

On a job, when stuff goes down, stay steady + handle it like a pro. Being professional means not personally defensively reacting, but listening instead, as you are objectively gathering information. 

Most likely it will blow over even though in the moment it feels alarming. Be objective.

Jobs will always come with some drama. You need to handle it like a pro; it’s your test to see if they’ll hire you again. I understand that it’s easy to take things personally sometimes, but don’t let that show. Be a constant professional and a source of calm. Listen to people, check on them if something seems off, and ask questions to understand what’s going on. Be the person who holds the shoot together instead of becoming part of the drama.

On a shoot, never share your stress with your client. Talk to your rep or someone else.

Best advice I ever received was from photographer Neil Jacobson, who told me to never bring my emotions to my job.

The secret to success for photographers is not to show their “cards” under pressure. Relax and always tell yourself it all gets done in the end with a great supportive team. Diva photographers are a thing of the past and no one wants to work with those guys anymore, high profile and talented or not. People want a light-hearted fun running set, NO DRAMA. 

Guest Post: Anonymous

Encourage those around you. Don’t tell your clients or models everything you are thinking or working out in your mind. You are the host of the party. Everyone will follow your lead. If something happens that throws you off, quietly figure it out with your team. No need to over-share. Be a professional. 

Guest Post: Anonymous