Capturing Your Designs

Written by Christopher Grigas
As floral designers we all have great abilities to create beautiful floral designs for our clients. It is not a far throw to consider yourself an artist…I consider myself an artist that uses flowers and botanicals as my creative medium. We express our inner thoughts thru design…and the outcome is often inspiring. We feel so proud and accomplished that our design has been realized right before us…thru our eyes.The next step is usually, ok…write out the enclosure card and get it out to the delivery truck so we can get moving on to the next order…like a flower arrangement factory.Stop yourselfYou are proud of this design and should take the time to show others how you see it….what it means to you. Portfolios are great selling tools for perspective clients but it is really difficult for clients to see the flowers the way you see them. I found myself explaining each photo in my old portfolio to a perspective bride, trying to finesse words to describe my intention of the arrangement. It was exhausting.Capture your designsIt’s not always easy to get proofs or copies from wedding photographers. Though the images are gorgeous and so clear, they are taken by someone other than the floral designer. If you don’t have one, get yourself a digital camera and learn how to use it (macro is best for flower details). Take pictures of your work….everything from small budvase designs to elaborate wedding arches. The key to this is taking the photos in the vision intended. It will help them understand your concept and design style. It bores people to look at “profile shots” of arrangements that have no character or style. Additionally having a large range of interesting photos can help your clients connect with you and understand your approach to floral design. I have found that the more you have to explain, the less the client will listen…if they love what they see, they will buy it.Context can be a fun thing to use in an artful photo. The use of delicate blooms like Sweet Peas can be much more interesting when placed near a crumbling rock wall. The juxtapose of the two materials will only magnify the beauty and elegance of the blooms. Perspective can also help when photographing beautiful designs…close up photos of the arrangements with very recognizable objects in the background help people see detail and feel intimate with the flowers…very appealing.Capture your audienceTake pride in your work and help your perspective clients see your work thru your eyes. Let your vision sell your designs, not your words. This new portfolio will also be a great tool for you as a designer. When you look at your own work, you may feel inspired, accomplished, forward thinking…it will be a timeline in the progression of your work.