What To Expect When Booking Corporate Headshots
Are you planning a headshot day for your colleagues in the office? Or maybe you’re hosting a conference and need a headshot booth? Either way, choosing the right photographer for your corporate headshot project can be a daunting task.
Are you planning a headshot day for your colleagues in the office? Or maybe you’re hosting a conference and need a headshot booth? Either way, choosing the right photographer for your corporate headshot project can be a daunting task.
With a decade of experience in corporate headshots, I’m here to guide you through what to expect when booking.
Specialized Expertise for Corporate Headshots
Corporate headshots require a different approach compared to individual or creative photoshoots. The images need to be consistent and professional, maintaining a uniform look for all participants. This involves specific posing, lighting, shooting, and processing techniques to ensure repeatable results throughout the day and in the future.
Remember, most participants aren’t professional models, and being photographed isn’t their favorite activity. Often, we work in conference rooms with simple setups—no elaborate scenery or props. This makes the photographer’s skill crucial.
Leveraging Technology for Better Results
Software plays a significant role in achieving excellent headshot results efficiently. I use a great tool called Headshot Tools, which has quickly become the industry standard for corporate and event headshot photography. By shooting directly into a computer, clients can see previews during the session, allowing for immediate adjustments to hair, clothing, or other details. This eliminates surprises and ensures everyone is happy with their images.
Streamlined Workflow with Headshot Tools
Headshot Tools offers several features that make the process smoother for both the photographer and the client. For project organizers, receiving files named by employee name saves the hassle of renaming files. Moreover, each subject gets a private gallery link within minutes of their session, so they can select their favorite image for retouching without the whole office seeing their proofs.
Once retouched, the images are delivered back through the same proof gallery. This means you, as the project organizer, don’t need to send numerous individual emails. Instead, you receive a master gallery link to download all the finished images in one place.
Ready to Book?
When choosing a headshot photographer, be sure to ask about the software workflow (it might just save you hours or days of work after the event). Reviews, local reputation, image portfolio, studio availability, and options for new hires are also important to the experience.
Reach out if you’re interested in learning more about headshot options for your team or your next event or conference. I’m Detroit based, but I do travel for larger projects. For smaller projects outside Michigan, I might be able to recommend a fellow photographer that can offer a similar level of service.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
How to Pick Your Best Headshot
Let’s be honest, seeing yourself through the lens of high-resolution photography can be daunting. Many of us are accustomed to the forgiving nature of Instagram filters or Zoom enhancements, which skew our perception of reality. This shift can make viewing unretouched headshot proofs a challenge.
Let’s be honest, seeing yourself through the lens of high-resolution photography can be daunting. Many of us are accustomed to the forgiving nature of Instagram filters or Zoom enhancements, which skew our perception of reality. This shift can make viewing unretouched headshot proofs a challenge. But I assure you, you have better things to worry about. Here are a few things to keep in mind for context.
Straight Out of the Camera
Headshot photographers, often show proofs that are straight out of the camera, with only minor adjustments for color and contrast. The goal is to capture a great image right from the start, minimizing the need for heavy retouching and keeping the image as natural as possible. Yet, the best in camera captures will reveal minor imperfections like facial lines or flyaways. And that’s ok.
Too Close For Comfort
One common pitfall is the urge to zoom into these proofs to pixel-level detail. This level of scrutiny is unnecessary and unhelpful, as no one else will inspect your headshot with such intensity. People viewing your headshot, whether on LinkedIn, a company website, or a business card, will focus on your major facial features and overall expression. These images are generally viewed at a much smaller scale where many minor imperfections become invisible.
Don’t Zoom In & Second Opinions
So when reviewing your proofs, please resist the temptation to zoom in! Instead, view your images at the intended display size. Thumbnails, for example, are an excellent way to gauge the effectiveness of a headshot. Ask for feedback from trusted friends or family, who are likely to view your photo more objectively than you might.
Remember, the goal of a headshot is to represent you as you are today. Your audience wants to see the real you (today, not from twenty years ago). A little retouching is perfectly acceptable but stay true to your current appearance. You've hired a photographer to handle (and worry about) the details, so you don’t have to.
Book your session today!
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Banner Photography for Sports Teams
Large format banners not only serve as a powerful display of team pride at games, competitions, and fundraisers but also play a crucial role in building morale among players and fans alike. Typically showcased on stadium fences or gym walls, these banners can range from 6 to 8 feet wide, offering a grand visual statement.
Welcome to the dynamic world of team sports banner photography, an essential element for high school and college sports teams to show their spirit and unity.
Large format banners not only serve as a powerful display of team pride at games, competitions, and fundraisers but also play a crucial role in building morale among players and fans alike.
Typically showcased on stadium fences or gym walls, these banners can range from 6 to 8 feet wide, offering a grand visual statement.
Crafting the Perfect Team Banner
The process of creating a team banner starts with understanding the size and composition of your team. For larger teams, simpler poses are recommended to ensure everyone fits seamlessly into the design, whereas smaller teams can explore more dynamic and complex arrangements. Additionally, individual senior banners offer a personalized touch to celebrate the final year of athletes, providing a memorable keepsake.
It's important to note that the aim is to capture the athletes in a more competitive and aggressive stance, moving away from the traditional, more casual school photo approach. This captures the essence of the team's spirit and determination, signaling a bold message to competitors.
The Photographic Process
The photography session is meticulously planned, with each athlete photographed individually under studio lighting, typically within a spacious school facility. This allows for a controlled environment to achieve the best possible individual shots, which are then expertly combined into a cohesive team composite. This process also includes an opportunity for light retouching and customization, ensuring each athlete looks their best.
Choosing a theme or template for the banner is a collaborative process, incorporating team logos and colors to create a visually striking design that resonates with the team's identity.
Usage and Impact
Team banners find their place in a variety of settings, from outdoor stadiums to indoor gymnasiums. The versatility of these banners extends to different occasions, with some teams opting for multiple banners to suit various events throughout the season. The size of the banner is crucial, as it needs to make an impact even from a distance, hence the recommendation to opt for slightly larger dimensions than initially considered.
Banners also offer an excellent opportunity to engage local businesses and sponsors, providing valuable exposure while supporting the team financially. This mutual benefit encourages community involvement and can significantly aid in covering the costs associated with creating the banners and other team expenses.
Beyond the Banner: Media Day
The banner photography session can be transformed into a comprehensive media day for the team. This offers a chance to capture a wide range of images for use across social media, effectively creating a stock catalog of images ready for the entire season. Planning for multiple uniforms and incorporating props can add a dynamic layer to the content, enriching the team's visual narrative.
Final Thoughts
Creating a sports team banner is a collaborative and detailed process that requires early planning and coordination. It's not just about the banner itself but about capturing the spirit, determination, and unity of the team in a visual format that can be shared and celebrated. For more information on the process, options, and pricing, engaging with a professional photographer early in the season is key.
Remember, a team sports banner is more than just a decorative element; it's a symbol of pride, achievement, and community. So, take the step to elevate your team's spirit and visibility with a professionally crafted sports banner.
Ready to Book?
Complete the form below and we’ll be in touch!
Got headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Headshot Clothing Tips for 2024
As we step into 2024, the question of what to wear for a headshot session remains as prevalent as ever. It's a topic I discuss repeatedly, given its importance, but it's crucial to remember that while your outfit plays a significant role, it shouldn't overshadow you.
As we step into 2024, the question of what to wear for a headshot session remains as prevalent as ever. It's a topic I discuss repeatedly, given its importance, but it's crucial to remember that while your outfit plays a significant role, it shouldn't overshadow you. After all, you're not marketing the clothes. Achieving a wardrobe baseline where your attire fits well and aligns with your professional image is key. Beyond this, the focus shifts to capturing your essence through expressions.
Remember, people rarely recall the specifics of what you wore in a headshot; they remember if you looked like you (not from twenty years ago).
The Importance of Fit
Fit is paramount. Opt for clothes that hug your body comfortably rather than those that are too loose. Men, ensure your shirt's neck size is correct, especially if you're wearing a tie. A well-fitting outfit not only looks sharper but allows for photographic techniques that can slim your appearance. An oversized garment, on the contrary, can add unwanted bulk.
Color and Pattern
Solid colors tend to work better than busy patterns. They draw attention to your face and expression, which should be the focal point of a headshot.
Dressing Appropriately
The degree of formality in your attire should mirror your daily professional wear. If suits are your go-to, then choose your favorite one for the session. If your ties don’t see much action these days, a smart sport coat with an open collar might be best.
Little Details Matter
Men's undershirts should be V-neck or absent to avoid distractions. Full attire is recommended, even for headshots, to accommodate different framing options. Shoes might not be visible, but they can enhance your confidence. Always bring multiple outfits to the session for variety and to ensure the best photographic outcome.
Attention Healthcare Professionals
For those in healthcare, modern fitted scrubs can look excellent on camera. White coats, though traditional, can be challenging to photograph due to their fit and color; scrubs often offer a more flattering alternative.
Style Trends and Accessories
Fashion trends come and go, but headshots are long-lasting. Sticking to classic, timeless pieces is advisable, though recent trends like oversized shoulders in women's attire may not translate well in headshots. Watches and jewelry should complement your look without overpowering it; simplicity usually wins out.
Final Thoughts
Your headshot session is about capturing the real you. Therefore, while clothing is important, it's essential not to overthink it. Choose outfits that represent you authentically and make you feel comfortable and confident. Remember, the right fit is crucial, especially for more formal looks. And sometimes, breaking the rules can work in your favor, provided it aligns with your personal style and the image you wish to convey.
In summary, your headshot should reflect your professional persona, not distract from it. By focusing on fit, appropriateness, and a touch of personal flair, you'll be well on your way to creating a memorable and impactful headshot for 2024.
Book your session today!
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
Your Corporate Headshot and Retouching — What to Expect
You wouldn’t believe the range of expectations I see when it comes to retouching and your professional headshot. Many of my clients and I are on the same page, but some do require some coaxing back to reality.
You wouldn’t believe the range of expectations I see when it comes to retouching and your professional headshot. Many of my Detroit area clients and I are on the same page, but some do require some coaxing back to reality.
This video covers my retouching philosophy along with a practical take on what we can and can’t correct in Photoshop, after the fact.
I also touch AI retouching and where it makes the most sense to use.
Learn more about corporate headshot options.
Got more headshot questions? Check out the headshot FAQs.
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