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John DeMato Blog

Welcome to the Deliver Magic blog, where experts who speak, coach, train, consult, and write books will find actionable insights to elevate their personal brands through visual storytelling. From strategy tips and branding photography to live event coverage and storytelling techniques, discover step-by-step guides designed to help you align what you say with how you show up in photos. Get ready to unlock the magic behind creating a cohesive visual identity that drives engagement, builds credibility, and inspires your audience. #DeliverMagic

The REAL you...

 

The photos you share online act as your spokespeople.

 
 

They need to represent the real you.

 

When you look at your photos, do you recognize that person?

Do you feel like you’re acting in front of the camera, or do they share genuine aspects of your personality?

While you certainly want the photos to be flattering - otherwise, you’d toss them immediately - they also need to convey real emotions through your facial expression and body language.

So yeah, the outfit needs to look put together. Your face needs to feel natural. The camera angle needs to flatter and be compelling. The lighting needs to accentuate what’s already there. 

But, if don’t have that special splash of you in the shot, then you don’t have a usable photo.

During a session with my colleague, Rob, I stressed during the strategy call the importance of capturing genuine aspects of his personality across the emotional spectrum.

As someone whose expertise involves connection, he needed images that create an opportunity to connect emotionally with those they serve.

When you look at your photos, you want to feel like they represent who you are and create an honest, genuine and compelling first impression.

And that was the goal when working with Rob.

While both attending a conference in Tennessee, he wanted to add more value to his experience by capturing some image assets he could use throughout his online presence.

While the session was just an hour, we hustled and created a portfolio filled to the brim with variety and expression:

Once the photos were delivered, Rob shared his thoughts on the whole experience:

Coming into my recent professional, lifestyle portrait session with John, I know I needed a refresh of my image. But not just headshots - something a little more creative - something most certainly I am NOT capable of with selfies LOL! 

Initially, we had a phone discussion about what I thought I needed and then what he thought...which was, of course, more detailed and knowledgable.  He also told me which outfits to bring and why. 

After several wardrobe changes, we found the shots and had a lot of fun along the way!  He also showed me what he was going for in each photo scenario along the way, so we were synced the entire time. 

It was a successful session where I felt relaxed and comfortable enough to be me.  He brought out the authentic me and captured it!  Masterful. 

I would work with him again without fail because I want more!  I would recommend him because he’s real...he brings out the REAL you!
— Rob Thomas

It was a real pleasure to work with an NYC Chapter member, so I was happy that Rob took me up on the opportunity to create some magical photos to help promote his business and brand.

If you’re in need of updating your image portfolio to create a chance to share genuine, compelling and high-quality photos, set up a time to chat with me to see how I can help.