As Ross from Friends would say, “PIVOT!” That’s exactly what this day demanded—a complete, last-minute change of plans that turned into one of the most memorable photoshoots I’ve ever done.
The story began with a special birthday shoot for a lovely client. Everything was on track to be fantastic: I had rented a studio that I often used, and the day’s schedule was perfectly aligned. I arrived at the studio about 30 minutes before the session to pick up the key from the owner. That’s when the curveball hit.
The studio owner met me, visibly flustered, and explained that she’d been in a car accident. She’d lost her keys and was now scrambling to get into the studio, making frantic calls to the building’s owners. My heart sank. With only half an hour until the shoot, I notified my client, who, thankfully, was still finishing up her hair and makeup. I tried to remain optimistic, assuring myself that everything would work out.
But it didn’t. The studio owner couldn’t get inside, despite her best efforts and countless apologies. My mind raced as I hopped back into my car, driving around in search of an alternative location. Rescheduling wasn’t an option I wanted to consider—I was determined to make this work for my client.
Desperation led me to the Davenport Hotel. It’s a stunning venue, but typically, they charge a hefty premium for commercial photography and require bookings well in advance. Still, I had to try. I walked into the lobby, nerves buzzing, and approached the front desk. To my surprise and relief, the receptionist was incredibly understanding. She graciously gave us permission to shoot, waiving the usual fees. Not only that, but the hotel’s security team even opened up restricted areas to give us more sets to work with.
When my client arrived, she was understandably nervous about the sudden location change. It’s not easy to shift gears like that, especially for such an important session. But once we got started, the magic unfolded. We spent the next two hours exploring the hotel, capturing elegant, timeless shots that felt like something out of a dream. The grand architecture, the luxurious ambiance, and the variety of backdrops made for an incredible setting.
In the end, my client’s initial nerves faded, and we both adored the results. Looking back, I’m so grateful for the way things played out. If we’d stayed at the original studio, I’m sure the photos would have been lovely. But this experience brought a sense of adventure, adaptability, and creativity that elevated the session to something truly unforgettable.
Sometimes, the universe forces you to pivot. It may feel chaotic in the moment, but those unexpected turns can lead to something extraordinary. This shoot is a constant reminder to embrace change and trust the process—even when it seems like everything is falling apart.
For me, this session stands out not just for the stunning photos we created, but for the story behind them. It’s proof that when you’re willing to adapt and push forward, amazing things can happen. Pivoting doesn’t just save the day; it can make it better than you ever imagined.
