Homework before the work in front of the camera

As an expert, your photos speak volumes before you've even opened your mouth.

That's why, before your next session, there are 2 important questions to consider:

• What 5 words represent the aspects of your personality you want to share?

• And, what 3-5 words represent how you want to be perceived by those you serve?

The first question asks you to dig deep, to explore the unique characteristics that make you who you are.

Are you passionate, energetic and driven? Or are you calm, thoughtful and empathetic?

Maybe you're a mix of all these and more. These attributes offer a glimpse into your personality and provide a roadmap for your photographer to capture your true essence.

They can create an atmosphere through direction during the shoot to help inspire these characteristics to show up in your facial expression and body language.

The second question aligns with your personal brand.

How do you want your audience, clients or future partners to perceive you?

Remember, the purpose here isn't to produce a fake persona based on what you THINK your audience wants to see in your image content.

Rather, it's about aligning your true self with your professional image.

By consciously considering these questions before your portrait session, you allow your photographer to help convey your unique qualities and attributes in a genuine, compelling and powerful way.

You're more than just an expert in your field - you're a personality, a human being with layers, depth and individuality.

And you can use that uniqueness to help attract potential clients into the fold that not only resonate with how you can help solve their challenges, but also because they resonate with your personality and essence.

That connection, over time, builds trust. And people work with those they trust.

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but make sure they're the right words.

Words that encapsulate not just who you are, but who you strive to be for those you serve.