Photographing the staff of a business for advertising materials, promotion, and the company webpage is a given requirement. Photographers have found that executives are very challenging subjects. Some photographers would prefer fidgeting toddlers to uncooperative executives. Let’s look at this positively; the photographing session does not need to be a negative experience. Since preparation is all important, let’s discuss some ways to get yourself ready for this important event.
If you are the subject of the picture, you will want to arrive at your best. To ‘photoshop’ has become an English verb, but retouching cannot replace your looking your best. In addition, the photo needs to present the real you, not some synthetic version. You will want people to recognize you from your picture.
Some photographers would like people to bring their wardrobe with them rather than wear it; others don’t require this. Either way, be sure what you wear portrays the image you want for the company and that it is clean and neat. If you are not good at matching colors or patterns, ask for help. The photographer is well trained in this. So it would be good to bring one or more alternate garments with you in case what you have chosen is not appropriate for some reason.
Some photographers state that drinking plenty of water before the session actually makes a person look healthier. Come early and don’t schedule an important appointment immediately after the session. This puts a person under pressure and makes it harder to get just the right expression.
Attitude is very important. Come happy and relaxed and well rested for the best results. The executive portrait is very important. The pictures may draw customers to your business. The pictures may also present a wrong image and turn customers away. Do what the photographer tells you to do, even if it doesn’t feel natural. After all, you are paying for their expertise.
Schedule the session early in the day or at a time when you look most rested and refreshed. Mornings solve the 4 o’clock shadow problem for men. If it is later in the day, men should look clean shaven unless they have a beard, and women should wear appropriate jewelry that does not distract from their faces. Speaking of faces, be sure yours is washed. The shine of facial oil is not welcomed. Your photographer may even powder your face to get rid of shine. Get a haircut a few days before. If your hands are to be in the picture, even the men might consider getting a manicure. The pictures are so important that even a hair stylist would be good to consider.
Some like the background of their own office in the picture. This is fine as long as adequate lighting is in place. Here is a final suggestion just before the picture: look at yourself in a full length mirror or have someone else scrutinize your appearance. Even the smallest thing out of place may require it to be done over.
Your photographer should have a good reputation for coporate photography. He/she should be both trained and experienced for this branch of photography. Though the coporate photo is just a picture, it has the potential for raising or lowering sales. Hopefully these suggestions will make it a good and successful experience.
Expressions Photography has been specializing as a portrait and Virginia Beach Photographer for years. Visit their website to see the portfolio.
