Whether looking for a new job or simply trying to promote an activity, there are always benefits to using good-looking business portraits. They can not only help to make a positive impression on potential clients or employers, they can also boost confidence and self-image.
But what happens when the result looks nothing like what we expect? We may all have had this experience. We styled our hair, we dressed up for the occasion, the photographer even complimented us. Alas, all we see are the dark circles, wispy hair, receding hairline, double chin, wrinkles, chapped lips, smudgy lipstick. We ask ourselves, "Who would hire such unattractive individual?" Seeing a reflection of ourselves that we consider unflattering may hit like a punch. The good news is that we can do something about it.
Feeling comfortable in front of a camera is a skill. It is not only about what we do, but also about how we do it. Good photography requires good preparation. First, it is important to know the purpose of the photoshoot. What message do we want to tell? Who will receive this message? If our target is a bank with a dress code, we might want to invest in suitable clothes. On the contrary, we should focus on having a conforting look if we are applying for a position as a kindergarden teacher.
The second important aspect is the location, which will also determine the light settings. No big studio equipment is required. Natural daylight works perfectly, and it is completely free. Window shots, which is what we find in the examples in this article, are a favorite technique of most photographers. If that is the only option, look for a wide room with grey or white walls which work as reflectors and distribute the light from outside evenly.
Keep in mind that any photo session can fail, but that does not mean the photographer or the subject are failures. However, the more prepared the team is for the photo shoot, the more chances it will succeed. It is therefore highly recommended to practice in front of a mirror or to do selfies in order to achieve the desired outcome. Some look better straight on, some turn a few degrees to the side. Some prefer a full-toothed smile, some with closed lips. It is a question of "finding our own angles" and getting to know a little more about who we are.
Delphine would like to thank her Geneva Business News teammates (pictured above) for allowing her to take their portraits and use them in this article.
Photo credit : Delphine Luchetta - Susu-prod
