In today’s global workplace, prospects often attain their first impression of you and your business on a company website or social media site.  In fact, most people will decide if they want to do business with you within 3 seconds of seeing your picture and those of your staff and building.  With this in mind, you should always put your ‘best face’ forward.

In fact, the quality of your executive portraits will send a subtle yet significant message about you and the standards you’ve set for your business.  A professional portrait is an investment in the business you are working so hard so hard to build.

A few weeks ago I attended a Chamber of Commerce function where the speaker, a long time professional in his industry, passed out his brochures at the end of his talk.  I quickly glanced at the picture on his brochure and wondered “Who is this on your brochure?”  Well, it was indeed him, but the picture was taken about 20 years ago.  Let’s just say that he did not look like his picture on his brochure any longer.  But, what his picture actually said to me was “Maybe his ideas are a little old – like his picture.”  Since the recession many people and businesses are finding they do not want to be associated with the way business was conducted a few years ago.  Instead it is important to look fresh and innovative, instead of trapped in the past.

Before having an executive portrait done, discuss with us about a few things first.

• Where will you use the business portrait?  Your Website or Blog, Social Media sites, Business Cards, Your Resume, Printed Advertisements, Press Releases, or for Public Relations.
• What setting do you want to be photographed in?  Do you want a formal studio type setting for a more formal look, in your office, or out on the floor of your company?
• What tone do you want your photo to convey?  Do you want to appear more authoritative and powerful, or open and friendly?
• How should you dress?  That power suit is great, but it is not for every situation and may project something other than your target message.
• How many settings would you like to be photographed in?  Different uses of the photos may be suited best with different settings.

Do you have a picture of yourself to display online?   How old is that picture 2, 3, even 5 years old?   What does that picture say about you?  As the saying goes, ‘A picture says a 1000 words’.  This is so true in a positive and negative way.  A good quality portrait can convey confidence, professionalism, someone approachable, and someone your viewers can relate to.  However, a low quality, aged portrait can have a reverse affect; you can be viewed as less than professional, not a serious business person, or in a subtle way… not someone they care to do business with.