Put the dancing shoes away and be yourself in your photos
Don’t use your portrait session as a chance to put on a song and dance for the camera.
The better option is to simply lean into being you.
On many discovery calls with potential clients, I end up having a little talk with them about their expectations for the photo session.
And that talk revolves around their initial thought at how they want to present themselves on camera.
For some speakers, authors, trainers, consultants and other expert-business owners, they assume their branded lifestyle portrait session involves crazy theatrics.
They need to go big with their outfits and appearance.
They need to go big with the locations in which we shoot.
They need to go over-the-top with their personality in every single photo.
They need to be brash, loud and vivid.
My response?
Cut out the bullshit and simply lean into who you are.
Your image content needs to reflect who you are because the person reflected in those photos will attract people that resonate with the personality and sensibilities displayed from shot-to-shot.
If you create a portfolio of images that represent something other than who you are to the core, you’re setting false expectations for those who are attracted to the person depicted in those photos…
AKA, not the real you.
What happens next with the people you attract into your world under false pretenses?
They feel bait and switched, unfollow you everywhere, the trust between you two is broken. As a result, say goodbye to ever being hired by that person or the potential referrals that would’ve come your way from that one person.
Forever.
So what’s the point of putting on a show with your photos?
That’s right - there is no point.
Work with a photographer who understands how to make you feel comfortable enough to be yourself in front of the camera so that you’re sharing photos that give an honest glimpse of your personality.
Make sure the photographer highlights the nuances that make you uniquely you - the way you smile, think to yourself, work, brainstorm ideas, work with clients, and other day-to-day activities.
Open the door to your world, and those who can see the value you offer will walk through.
No extra bells and whistles needed.
No shiny new rims on the tires.
Just you.
That’s more than enough because you’re magical just the way you are :)
Being honest in front of the camera is one of the hallmarks of my in person, lifestyle portrait sessions.
If you’re curious to know what working with me looks like and whether or not we’d be a fit to work together, learn more here: