In a recent advice column for Slate Plus members, Prudie discusses a letter from “Mr. Photogenic,” who is feeling disappointed and angry about the results of a photoshoot with a friend who is a filmmaker and photographer. Mr. Photogenic paid over $2000 for the shoot and the space rental, but was unhappy with the photos because he felt that he wasn’t given proper instructions on how to pose. He is now wondering if his friendship is over.
Prudie’s response, discussed with fellow Slate writer Joel Anderson, focuses on several key points. First, they address the common experience of feeling unhappy with photoshoots, even when professionals are involved. They emphasize that photoshoots can be challenging and not achieving desired results does not mean it is a personal attack. They also mention that hiring friends for professional work can be risky, as it can strain personal relationships and often leads to disappointment.
Joel suggests that Mr. Photogenic should communicate his dissatisfaction to his friend in a respectful manner to see how he responds. He recommends expressing gratitude for the friend’s time and effort, but also being honest about the disappointment and stating that the final images were not what was expected. Jenée adds that it is important to mention that the outcome is not the friend’s fault and that better communication about expectations could have helped.
Overall, the advice given is to approach the situation with openness and honesty, giving the friend an opportunity to address the disappointment. While it is unclear whether the friendship can be fully salvaged, expressing oneself respectfully can lay the foundation for a constructive conversation about the issue.
Source: Article written by Prudie, Jenée Desmond-Harris, and Joel Anderson for Slate (No URL provided)