How Do I Get Ready for a Corporate Photograph?

Successful companies will, from time to time, want to photograph their staff for advertising materials, promotion, and the company webpage. Yet executives can be some of the most difficult subjects to photograph. Some would rather photograph small children than cranky, belligerent executives. The photography session does not need to be a negative experience. In this article we will discuss some ways to prepare your staff or yourself so that your executive photographs will promote your company and present a positive image.

Be sure, as the subject of the picture, that you are well prepared. To ‘photoshop’ has become an English verb, but retouching cannot replace your looking your best. And remember, the photo needs to present you as you are, not some invention of you. That way those who see it will recognize you from the photograph.

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 inept at matching colors or patterns, get help. The photographer can also aid you with this. For this reason it would be good to bring with you one or more other outfits in case your selection is not acceptable for whatever reason.

Some photographers state that drinking plenty of water before the session actually makes a person look healthier. Arrive early so you can be relaxed, and don’t plan a demanding meeting right afterward. When you have pressures on your mind, it will show up on your face.

Your attitude during the session will be important. Come happy and relaxed and well rested for the best results. Realize the importance of these pictures. The pictures may draw customers to your business. On the other hand, they may turn people away. Do what the photographer tells you to do, even if it doesn’t feel natural. They are the experts who know what is best.

Plan your photo session early in the day when you look most refreshed and rested. This solves the shaving problem for men as well. 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 facial oil shining in the light is not welcomed. Some photographers may even powder your face to avoid this. Get your hair cut a few days before the picture. 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 executives want to get their picture taken in their own office. If proper lighting can be set up, this works fine. One final suggestion: examine yourself in a full length mirror or have someone else check out your appearance. Even the smallest thing out of place may require it to be done over.

Choose a photographer who has a good reputation for coporate photography. He/she should be both trained and experienced for this branch of photography. Though the coporate photo is only a picture, it has great potential in helping a business. These suggestions are given as a guideline to make it a successful venture.