A picture is worth a thousand words! In today's world, personal branding has become more important than ever before. It's time to show the world who you truly are. Authentic photography has the power to highlight the human side of a brand and reinforce its values. At Durée & Company, a renowned public relations and marketing agency based in Fort Lauderdale and Aspen, we understand the significance of storytelling through photography. We believe that proper photography can truly showcase your identity and what you stand for.
Acquire High Resolution Images
One of the common mistakes we often come across is low-resolution imagery. Media outlets won't accept such images. Headshots should be high resolution, around 5”x7” at 300 dpi (1500×2100 pixels). The higher the resolution, the better the quality and impact.
Lighting is Key
When it comes to headshots, there's more to it than just a plain background. Lighting plays a crucial role in capturing the essence of your personality. If shooting indoors, make sure to utilize natural or artificial light sources, such as windows or lamps, to create the desired atmosphere.
Insider’s tip: Look for a location with abundant natural light but avoid direct sunlight. If shooting outdoors, the best time is either early morning or during the golden hour when the sun is behind the clouds. Take a look at this photo taken right outside Durée & Company’s Fort Lauderdale office, perfectly lit with just the right amount of sunlight.
Photo: Durée & Company's Fort Lauderdale office
Trust your Photographer
Trusting your photographer is crucial for capturing your best shots. Some of the most remarkable photos are often taken towards the end of a session when you start feeling comfortable in front of the camera. Embrace the process and let your true self shine through.
Insider’s Tip: We highly recommend working with Ali from Alison Frank Photography. She understands the essence of capturing authentic images. Visit her website, and you might even recognize a few familiar faces, as some of our D&Co clients have worked with her. Here's a relaxed photo of me taken in the comfort of my own office!
Photo: Relaxed office atmosphere
Don’t Do Anything Drastic
When it comes to headshots, it's not the time to make drastic changes to your appearance. Avoid making sudden hair color changes or getting bangs right before the shoot. Plan any salon visits at least a week in advance to allow for any necessary adjustments. Stick to your usual look and maintain consistency. If you want a tan, get it a few days before the photo session, giving it time to settle. Keep your nails on-brand and avoid distracting colors.
Evoke Personality and Get Creative
Authenticity is the key to connecting with consumers. No one wants to see one thing online and encounter something completely different in person. It's essential to remain consistent and true to yourself.
Insider’s tip: Planning a trip? Coordinate a photoshoot in a new location to add some excitement. Here's a photo from my recent lifestyle shoot in Paris. If you're not a fan of traditional photo sessions, this can make it more enjoyable. And if you happen to find yourself in Paris, I highly recommend Pierre from The Paris Photographer. Oui!
Photo: Lifestyle shoot in Paris
Utilize The Brand's Colors
Consistency is key in branding. Stick to the chosen color palette and incorporate those 2-3 colors into your brand photos. This cohesiveness will make your brand more recognizable to your target audience.
Insider’s Tip: Showing the behind-the-scenes of your business humanizes it and highlights your expertise in the industry. If you know me, you know I always have my two cell phones, laptop, and iPad with me. So naturally, here's a photo of me working and gathering inspiration, all while wearing pink!
Photo: Working in style
Quick Checklist for a Successful Photoshoot
To help you make the most of your lifestyle photography session, here's a quick checklist of do's and don'ts:
- Tone down neon colors as they can distract attention from your face.
- Avoid prints and patterns, as they can cause distortions in digital portraits.
- Don't over-accessorize; keep it simple and minimal.
- Consider different location ideas: indoor (business center, elegant home) or outdoor (beach, marina).
- Opt for clean and neutral backgrounds that allow for flexibility in cropping.
- Capture both portrait and landscape compositions to cater to various needs.
- Plan 2-3 different looks/outfits to convey different aesthetics.
- Experiment with different staging and positioning options.
- Incorporate movement and expressions to add depth and personality to your photos.
- Explore a variety of headshot styles: candid, head tilt, over the shoulder, chin on hands, straight forward, facing left/right.
Remember, be yourself and let your true personality shine!
Today, brands require more than just traditional business cards, social media, and websites to make an impact. At Durée & Company, we have decades of experience in creating stellar branding strategies that get our clients noticed and recognized time and time again. If you need a photographer recommendation, we work with the best in the industry and can help you secure reduced licensing rates. We're also happy to review contracts and ensure you own all rights to your photos. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you in creating quality lifestyle photography that aligns with your brand.
About Durée & Company
Durée & Company, Inc. is an award-winning, full-service public relations, marketing, and special events firm established in 1999. With offices in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and Aspen, Colorado, we serve local, national, and international clients across various industries. Our services include public relations, social media, marketing, content development, advertising, special events, branding, radio promotions, and more. Whether you're in business, fashion, hospitality, travel, health and wellness, technology, or any other field, we can help elevate your brand through strategic communication. Learn more by visiting our website or following us on social media at @DureeCoPR.
