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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

Photos from Influence

 

One event that I look forward to seeing on my calendar every year is Influence - the conference that the National Speakers Association hosts in different places annually.

Aside from the opportunity to catch up with friends, colleagues and clients, I also make time to deliver magic with some clients while in the resort in which the event is held.

Now, prior to flying to the venue, I’m honestly a bit nervous as I book the sessions and go over strategy with them.

The reason is because I don't know what I'm walking into in terms of decor and usable playspace to shoot.

Sure, I checked out the photos of the property online, but they really don’t offer a realistic feel as to the size and scope of the space.

Once checked and settled into the room, I head down to survey the entire resort and identify the interesting nooks and crannies that can be used as a backdrop to capture headshots and wider portraits.

Once I landed in Orlando - and after ironing a couple button downs that desperately need it after sitting in a luggage case for hours - I took a stroll around to survey the playspace and found the areas where clients could stand, sit and lean against the wall for their photos.

I had the pleasure to work with some wonderful folks this round - Sophia Aguilar, Russ Riddle, Meridith Powell and Mark Hunter.

Despite the challenges that flying blind into a space creates, we were able to make some magic in front of the camera.

Aside from working with good people, we collaborated to create image content that they can use throughout their online presence, including their website, social content and speaker one sheets.

Which is the goal, of course.

I’m looking forward to next year’s conference in Denver, not only because the venue has a lot of juicy areas to shoot but because it's where I went to my very first Influence in 2019.

But for now, the results of this event and 4 happy people is good enough for me 😊