Headshot Portrait? Here Are Some Tips on Making Yours a Good One

With the popularity of online media, the need for a great headshot is important.  Headshots are used for LinkedIn, business websites, organizations such as professional, trade, social, religious and non-profit, press releases, Facebook, Match.com and many others.  Your posted image is the first impression a viewer has of you, and your opportunity to make it a good one.  Here are some tips on making it count:

• Determine where your headshot will be appear.  Different looks may be effective for each use, such as LinkedIn vs. Facebook.  This may also affect the way the image is cropped as well as digital file size required for a given website.

• Decide on the "look" that works best.  In business, although some occupations and industries still favor a coat and tie for men and a business suit for women, the look in most cases is business casual.  This means sport coat for men, and jacket for women.  Solid colors work best.  Just a shirt or blouse can look too casual.  If your job is performed outdoors or in a unique setting, (e.g. tradesman, lab worker), that may call for a uniform or clothing specific to that job. 

• Consider what background will compliment your image as well as the website in which it will appear. Because a headshot is tightly cropped, generally a simple neutral colored or white background will be most attractive and draw attention to the face.  An out of focus background can sometimes be an option.

• Lighting should be fairly even for a business look.  More dramatic lighting may be better for an image that portrays an artistic look complimenting your profession or for social media.

• For most uses, your expression should indicate that you are sincere, approachable, and positive. A natural looking smile serves you well.

• Retouching should be tastefully done on your final image.  Digital photography captures every detail in stunning clarity and portraits need to be softened.  The blemish that popped up overnight or the razor nick from this morning can be retouched out.  It is important that it not be overdone to the point where when you appear for an interview or meeting, the viewer does not recognize you from your photograph.  

• Most professional photographers will offer you a couple of clothing choices, and will make your images available on a computer for your viewing and selection on the spot.  This will allow for processing and retouching to be done promptly and delivery of your final images shortly thereafter.  

• Be sure to communicate with your photographer any concerns you have about your physical appearance as they are skilled with posing and lighting techniques that can enhance your look and minimize areas where you may be self-conscious.  

A professional photographer can provide portraits that fill your needs.  He/she will work with you to ensure that you look your absolute best to make that all important great first impression.  

Enjoy the day,

George

Victorian Festival at Historic Oakland Cemetery

Last weekend's Sunday In The Park is a Victorian Festival held at the Historic Oakland Cemetery in Atlanta. One of the highlights is the Victorian Costume contest which features Victorian and Steampunk costumes.

The Oakland Cemetery was founded in 1850, and is a garden cemetery with winding paths and exquisite landscaping and is one of the largest green spaces in Atlanta.  The Historic Oakland Foundation preserves the site, and holds events bringing people together in a beautiful setting as well as conducting tours throughout the year.

People came pouring in throughout the afternoon as the weather was absolutely beautiful.

 The Victorian costume contest drew a lot of attention and participants were in the the spirit with some great outfits.

 Vendors displayed artwork including the carvings.

Music included everything from rock to bagpipes continuing throughout the afternoon on two separate stages.

A great afternoon in Atlanta with wonderful weather.  The Oakland Cemetery is a must see of places to visit in Atlanta.

Enjoy the day,
George

Hibiscus.....Teaching Us How to Live Full Days?

Like most people, I can get caught up during the day thinking about all I have to do, planning ahead, worrying, or reviewing the past.  I quickly try and catch myself and remain focused on what is happening here and now, and to be aware.  It can be something simple like noticing how the light is reflecting off trees, enjoying the sounds of the birds, or listening closely to someone in conversation.

I am fortunate to have a hibiscus plant on our deck, and while enjoying my morning coffee, it is there for me to see.  On any given day it generally has several buds on it, and usually one blooms each day.  At the end of the day, it drops off, and another blooms in its place the following day.

This is God's reminder on how to live my life.  The buds are the days in the future, waiting to come to fruition, the dropped flowers are days gone by, and the blooming flower is today.   The flower is what catches my attention because it is here and now.  I strive to make the most of each day, to be aware, thankful for my blessings, focus on the task at hand, and appreciate the people in my life.  Hibiscus in a beautiful way reminds me to stay in the present, and helps me to increase my "aware" time throughout the day.

Enjoy the day,

George

Family Portrait - A Gift That Lasts

When is the last time you had a family portrait created?  The years have a tendency to sneak by us  while raising our families.  One moment, we are taking photos of our precious babies and toddlers at every adorable move.  Very quickly they grow into busy youngsters, and time for many things, like photos and portraits, becomes much more scarce.  All too soon, our teenagers are spreading their wings and frequently out doing their own thing.  And before you have time to think, they are off to college. Somewhere in those years, it is so important to take the time to have a family portrait done.   As said by a well known photographer, Michelle Celantano,   "There is no 'perfect' time to have a portrait created.  You will never regret having a family portrait done, but someday you may regret not having one."   

Family portraits are a wonderful way to celebrate the present and also preserve the memories of those special years and family relationships that will be treasured by our children and grandchildren for years to come.  

  

Recently we had the privilege of working with an amazing family to do just that.  As we got to know their three teenagers, Kelly, Danny and David, we learned they have a very special bond of friendship that is refreshing to see. We endeavored to capture that in their family portrait in a natural setting reflective of their lifestyle.   

By engaging everyone and keeping the session moving and fun, our wonderful subjects were comfortable and relaxed for our camera, allowing their personalities and connection to shine through.  

They also had some great ideas for shots, and we love the results.  It was a true collaboration and working with Kelly, Danny and David and their parents, Bill and Diane to create their family portraits was an absolute joy. 

At some time or other, I think all of us want to learn something about our piece of family history.  Of all the gifts we give our children, what could last longer or be more special for them to show twenty, thirty or more years from now when they share their fondest memories with their children or grandchildren?  The future rewards for taking that time now are priceless.

Thank you Bill, Diane, Kelly, Danny, and David.

Enjoy the day,

George