Yes, clients almost always give direction, even if it's based on my previous work. It's not uncommon to get instructions like, "We love your Steve Martin bread fingers picture, make something delightful like that."

But often the direction is not what I want to do with a subject, so if I can't gently talk them into an idea I like better then I do my best to execute their request. Every job is an audition for the next job, so I'm incentivized to deliver work that pleases my clients.

That said, on magazine shoots I usually have the time and flexibility to do a set-up or two that closely aligns with my taste and ideas. And often the client prefers these pictures. : )