How Letting Go of Perfection During a Photoshoot Will Make You a Better Photographer | Skyler Maire Photography

When you look through old childhood photos, which ones pull at your heartstrings the most? Are they the ones where everyone’s standing together in perfectly coordinated outfits, grinning at the camera? Or is it the one where everyone’s in mismatched clothes, dirt smudged on their faces, and they’re looking everywhere but the lens? It’s those moments when you’re letting go of perfection that capture something real and unforgettable.

Now, don’t get me wrong—there’s always a place for a good, smiley photo. I love those, too! In fact, most of my galleries are filled with smiles. They’re just not always your typical Christmas card photo. And that’s what I want to talk about today—how letting go of perfection during a photoshoot can actually make you a better photographer. Perfection isn’t the goal of an image (at least not in my style of documentary photography)—authenticity is. Releasing that need for everything to be just right takes the pressure off you and your clients, letting the magic unfold naturally. Some moments just can’t be staged, right?

Why Perfection is Overrated

Let’s be real—perfection is overrated. Our quirks and imperfections are what make us uniquely human, and honestly, that’s where the beauty lies. When it comes to capturing a great image, sure, there are some “rules” we can follow, like the rule of thirds or avoiding cluttered backgrounds. But if we get too hung up on making everything picture-perfect, we’ll stress ourselves out and miss the real magic happening right in front of us. Our clients want their story told in a way that’s real, not polished. When they look at their photos, they’re searching for that little spark of “them.” You know, that moment that makes them say, “OMG, that’s so us!” So, keep your camera ready and be on the lookout for those authentic moments, even if the lighting, pose, or angle isn’t ‘perfect.’

Fun Prompts to Loosen Up Your Clients

One way to loosen up your clients is to add a little fun to the mix! Get them to play tag, act like bumper cars, or whisper silly things in each other’s ears. Maybe even blow raspberries on someone’s cheek! And while they’re goofing around, switch up your perspective—don’t always take your photos from straight on. Get low, go high, move side to side, and experiment with different angles. There have been times I’ve taken a shot thinking it’s garbage, only to be blown away later when I see it on a big screen. Don’t be afraid to try something new. There’s so much beauty in imperfection—that’s what makes a photo unique and memorable. Our clients want emotion, connection, and authenticity in their images!

Try Out New Creative Techniques

How often do you experiment with creative techniques during your sessions? I’ll admit, my use of them ebbs and flows depending on the inspiration I feel, the light, and the location. To get a sense of what my clients are comfortable with, I include a question in my pre-session questionnaire about creative techniques. That way, I know whether they’re open to it or prefer a more traditional approach. Most of the time, though, my clients are totally game for something fun—whether it’s motion blur, double exposures, or using reflectors and prisms to add a unique touch.

If you’re always sticking to your comfort zone and relying on the same go-to shots, you’re missing out on opportunities to grow as a photographer. So, take a risk at your next session! Try something new, even if it doesn’t pan out perfectly—it’s not like you have to include every experimental shot in the final gallery!

Embrace the “Messy” Moments

It’s okay to embrace the awkward, goofy, or “messy” moments during a photoshoot. Oftentimes, those “imperfect” moments turn into my favorite images. For instance, during a newborn shoot, the baby won’t stop crying, and you’re thinking, “Do I take a picture of this?” My answer: yes. Because sometimes you end up with a raw, beautiful moment like this.

Just Take Five Minutes

I vividly remember a photographer once saying, “Just take five minutes out of every single session to do whatever the hell you want.” Just five minutes. That’s a tiny fraction of any session (except for Minis, of course), but you can accomplish so much in that time. Whether it’s testing out a new prompt, experimenting with a different pose, or trying a creative technique, give yourself those five minutes at every photoshoot. You never know what magic might happen!

Creativity Thrives When You Let Go

By letting go of perfection, you’ll actually become more creative and adaptable. These are such powerful skills for a photographer, and over time, your confidence will grow as you develop them. Don’t be afraid to experiment and push yourself out of your comfort zone, even if things don’t always go according to plan.

Focus on Connection, Not Perfection

So, before your next photoshoot, focus on connection—not perfection. It’s okay to guide your clients, but also give them space. You don’t need to fill every second with direction. Some of the best moments happen when you take a step back. And when you review your photos later, look for the moments that weren’t posed or planned—they might just be the most magical of all.

Share Your Imperfect Moments

I’d love to see some of your perfectly imperfect moments! If this blog resonates with you and you try out this approach at your next photoshoot, tag me on Instagram @skylermairephotography. I can’t wait to see what you create!

And, if you’re still feeling a bit stuck when it comes to directing couples, I’ve got a little something for you. Download my guide, Nine Effortless Poses to Make Any Couple Look Great, right here. Happy photographing!

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