Be creative, but stick to the plan

by Jason
(Phoenix, Arizona)

As I've gotten better, my friends and some family members have asked me to take some pictures of them at different parties and such.

To do my best, I want to know about this more than 20 minutes before the party, so I can think about what would make the best pictures (poses, group composition, lighting, etc.) People will ask you to photograph them without any notice; just let them know next time, the results would be better with more notice.

There's a difference between people asking anyone to "take our picture" and requesting you to photograph them. Take control and don't be afraid to arrange everyone to do what you want, where you want it. They are asking you to do it for a reason, it's ok to act professional.