Non-Verbal Communication with Sarah Meghan Lee

Photographing people in a foreign country presents photogenic opportunities but can be very challenging. A warm “good day” in the native tongue goes a long way, but also think about your non-verbal communication.

According to the book, Louder Than Words, by A. Barbour, the total impact of any message is: 7% verbal; 38% vocal (volume, pitch, rhythm, etc); and 55% body movements (mostly facial expressions).


A smile is universal and your eyes are the window to your soul. Eye contact and an authentic smile give people a sense of you. Also consider how you are carrying yourself. Crossed arms, head down, or head up, open to encounters with people? Don't be in a hurry. Be present. If you make a new friend, don't rush off after a few photos; stay a while, stay all afternoon.


And before you leave, look at them in the eye and with a big smile say thank you, because they have given you the gift of a cross cultural encounter; the photograph is secondary.

Learn more from Sarah in her workshop
San Miguel de Allende: Day of the Dead
October 29 - November 4, 2010

Visit her web site www.sarahmeghanleephotography.com to see what she’s up to.