Photographers must listen to their clients

I am writing about Oliver Bennett’s photography feature (DW 10 September). Perhaps I am missing the point, but surely if the client has an opinion while being “shot”, that counsel however vague, contradictory or indeed relevant, is another control the photographer has to complete the assigned project to the greatest effect, subsequently providing the foundation for the next job.

Lee Hoddy made note that photography “could work harder”. It is difficult to see that happening if we don’t listen and react with enthusiasm for the client’s apparent needs. Far more important is to create beyond expectations, images as solutions, photography that does work harder and not merely viewed as the incumbent poor relation of corporate design.

Paul Cordwell

Birmingham B9 4NZ