When I create still-life images it is a one-woman show. I approach this kind of work like meditation. It is a very personal conversation between me and the non-animated subject, where I try to give it a voice. On the other end working on food or beauty projects often require a team.
For beauty photography, you can think of a hair and makeup artist, a model, a stylist, or in food photography, the props stylist, or a food stylist, but no matter the type of project: food or beauty, each member of the creative team is like a piece of a puzzle that comes together to create the outcome.
The people part of the team may have different roles, but the criteria detailed below are what you might look for when building a team. As you will see, the focus is more on soft skills than anything.
Expertise
Let's first address the hard skill that is essential to the good delivery of the shoot. No matter your level of expertise you want to surround yourself with people of similar levels of knowledge and know-how in their field. And this relates to the expectations from each other. For example, a makeup artist who has previously worked on photoshoots is always a good thing as she will have experience with how to deal with makeup under artificial lights. You also want to pick the right creative partner who is especially good in a specific style and can help achieve the desired outcome: Like a makeup artist who is experienced or confident in creating the specific looks you aim for. For the talents, you may start with beginners when you are learning how to pose and give directions, and collaborate with more experienced ones as you are proficient.
Behaviour
After making sure that expectations can be met, attitude is a close second. It might be undervalued but the way everyone behaves during the shoot and approaches the project of the day is critical. It may be just a test shoot or a big campaign for a renowned brand, behaving professionally shows your commitment to give your best no matter what is the job. Of all the people I have worked with, I remember the most the ones who were dedicated to giving their best.
As part of the creative team (makeup artist and hair stylist or wardrobe stylist) someone with a problem-solving attitude, open to try new things, ready to help, and a good listener is always appreciated. On the talent part, someone who no matter the shoot gives it 100%. I appreciate when models take the time to have a look at the mood board and think of what is expected from them on the day. Attitude is like a transfer of energy that comes through your actions and interactions.
Energy
The best photoshoot is not just the one with a good outcome (such as good images) but the one where a synergy has operated during the photo shoot, induced a state of flow, and produced great outcomes while everyone had fun. This transfer of energy from one individual to another is so important.
I have to confess here that I am a reserved person and despite my calm demeanor, I can sense who is in front of my lens. From the confident model to the one that needs time to warm up or feels more comfortable once they get props and accessories, behind the lens the shift is noticeable. It then becomes like a dance, where we both follow the same tempo.
Alignment
Every team member has a reason to participate in the shoot, yet when comes the production day everyone needs to align to a common goal. The creative team supports and works together to make the creative idea a reality while its members have their specific objectives (from gaining experience to building a portfolio to expanding a network...). It is a balancing act between personal objectives and the common achievement of the photo shoot. This alignment is important because it reflects the energy and attitude listed above.
For example, when building a portfolio you may ask if they have a similar intention and if they would consider an ongoing collaboration. Misalignment often leads to frustration and disappointment, so it is important that everyone formulates clearly their expectations and objectives.
It takes time to find the people you work well with, but the outcome and experience are nothing you can compare with. These human values make all the difference. So next time you are looking to build a creative team, think about how each member can contribute beyond their skillset to the project and how it's important to surround yourself with the right people on set.
Creative team
Photographer Viviane Perenyi
Model Alessia C. from Rebel Rebel Agency
Makeup artist Krystal Tamba
