I was hired by this couple very early in my career. The newbie years, when I was still trying to figure out how to make people laugh.
Their requirement was innocent enough. No glam shots, no posing. No need nice locations or special effects. Just simple, natural, happy shots.
I wish I could say it nicer, but the experience was be terribly unpleasant. The harder I tried, the more awkward we became. It was tough trying to remain cheerful, while all the time frustration and disappointment was building up, threatening to blow over any moment.
Then, I gave up. Decided to call it a day.
What followed was absolutely amazing. I can’t describe in words, but I believe you can tell from the couple’s faces, just how much they were enjoying themselves. Ironically, the best photos happen when I stopped trying, and started enjoying myself again.
I only took a few more photos before wrapping up the session, but compared to the previous 100+, they were priceless.
This was many years ago, but I’ve never forgotten the lessons I’ve learnt. Even now, whenever I hit the rut, I’d remind myself: As long as I enjoy what I’m doing, everything will fall in place.