Photographers do you finish strong everytime or just when you are inspired?

by Stanley Learybusiness
 
Lisbon, Portugal [Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/2.8, 1/50]

There are two photographers that my friends talk about a great deal when talking about the type of photographers out there. One is my friend Ken Touchton and the other person I will not mention.

The unmentionable photographer is one of the best shooters we have ever known, but we all qualify that statement if he is into the subject.

If the subject didn’t excite this unmentionable photographer, he shot so poorly that anyone with a camera could outproduce the photographer. One time the photographer was so unmotivated that the actions he took are still legendary.

While in Europe, the unmentionable photographer became so disenchanted with the story that he called the home office of the organization he was on staff with and told them his camera gear was all stolen. Miraculously the equipment showed up just as he left for the airport to return home. Rather than staying and finishing the coverage, he came home.

Lisbon, Portugal [Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/22, 1.1 sec.]

All of my friends that know Ken Touchton respect him and his abilities. I hired Ken to shoot a job for me, and many of my editor friends have done the same thing. All of us talk about the consistency you get with Ken.

Ken Touchton

No matter how mundane or exciting the coverage, Ken Touchton puts the same amount of heart and sweat into each project.

The words we use to describe Ken is dependable, consistent, and a good friend.

Even the way Ken dresses is consistent and professional for every situation. If a coat and tie are the dress code for a funeral, he wears them. No matter the case, you will notice that his clothes always look freshly pressed and clean.

It probably takes more talent and skill to finish consistently, as Ken Touchton does with every job than to be a hit-and-miss photographer.

Lisbon, Portugal [Fuji X-E2, 18-55mm, ISO 6400, ƒ/2.8, 1/90]

Tips to be consistent:

  • Listen to the client’s needs
  • Listen to the subject and find their story—not your story
  • Know your audience 
  • Know your gear
  • Build in redundancy in your gear
  • Build redundancy in your coverage
  • Use checklists to ensure you have it all
  • Study the great photographers
  • Study your competition
  • Treat every person you encounter with honor, dignity, and respect
Here is Ken Touchton with one of his mentors Tom Kilpatrick catching up over dinner.