My Own Worst Client Made Me the BEST Family Photographer

My Epic Fail Turned Superpower

I’m here to confess something that might resonate with a lot of you: I am my own worst client. A complete and utter nightmare.

You know those demanding, difficult clients that make you question your life choices? Yeah, I’m that person…

It all boils down to one simple, soul-crushing fact: I hate being in front of the camera. It’s like a spotlight shining on every insecurity and flaw. And because I’m the client, I can’t just brush it off. I’m stuck with myself.

Here’s a glimpse into the chaotic world of me as the client:

• The Excuses: “Oh, my hair looks weird today.” “The lighting is off.” “Mercury is in retrograde, obviously.”
• The Wardrobe Panic: Choosing an outfit? It’s a full-blown crisis. Every piece of clothing suddenly hates me. And don’t even get me started on coordinating the whole family! It’s like herding sparkly, opinionated cats.
• The Mom-ster Unleashed: Trying to get a decent photo with my kids? It’s a recipe for disaster. My patience evaporates. “Smile! Stand still! Look happy!” I turn into a slightly terrifying, “smile or else” version of myself. It’s not pretty.
• The Fake Smile of Doom (aka the “possessed doll” look): My smile starts off cute, then morphs into something that could scare small children. These do not fall under the candid family photo moments.
• The Self-Criticism Avalanche: Weight, hair, wrinkles, posture – no detail is safe from my inner critic. I nitpick every aspect of my appearance, spiraling into a vortex of self-doubt.
• The Time Warp: Even when I plan meticulously, I’m always late. It’s like my personal time zone operates on a different planet.

It’s exhausting. It’s frustrating. And honestly, it’s a little embarrassing. Sound familiar? Yeah, I thought so.

But here’s the magic trick: being a terrible client made me an awesome photographer!

Think of it as rigorous, firsthand market research. I’ve lived the struggles my clients face. And because I’ve been there, I’ve built my business around making the entire photography experience easier, lighter, more enjoyable, and ultimately, empowering for you.

Here’s how my “worst client” status translates into a better experience for you:

• The “No Stress” Wardrobe (Family Outfit Planning): Forget the fashion stress! I’ll create mood boards, review your options, and even give you a thumbs-up (or down) via text. We’ll make sure you look amazing, without the panic.
• The “Fun Aunt” Approach (Relaxed Family Photos): I’m all about patience and playtime. Kids being kids? Tantrums? Tween and teen ‘tude? No problem! We’ll turn it into an adventure, a memory itself, with giggles and breaks as needed.
• The “Let’s Play” Posing Party (Candid Family Photos): Say goodbye to stiff poses! We’ll play games, have tickle fights, and capture your family’s real, hilarious moments. I’ve mastered the art of capturing genuine connection and playful interaction. I will capture those fleeting moments of genuine joy – a loving glance, a shared giggle, a spontaneous hug.
• The “Real Life, Real Love” Editing for Authentic Family Photos: I’m all about natural beauty. We’ll keep it real, celebrate the imperfections, and make sure your photos show the true spirit of your family.
• The Punctuality Promise (Born from My Struggles): I’ve learned the hard way that time is precious, especially since we are up against losing the most perfect light you scheduled for built in buffer times to ensure we have plenty of time together and do not feel rushed.

Basically, I’ve turned my personal photography nightmares into your dream photo session. So, if you’re nervous about being in front of the camera, you’re in good company. I’ve been there, I’ve survived, and I’m here to make it fun! Let’s make some memories (and take some awesome photos) together!

Kim Lorraine Photography specializes in custom newborn, child, family, and branding photography serving clients in Hoboken, Manhattan, Westchester, throughout Northern New Jersey, and the Jersey Shore.