Old School Gratitude Matters

© Tammy Brice Creative

Amidst the AI-driven marketing landscape and the social media-centric business success, Minneapolis photographer Tammy Brice's story stands out. She champions 'old school' methods to express gratitude for her clients, a practice we discussed during a recent phone conversation. We also delved into the significance of emotional intelligence in portrait photography, a concept that not only can inspire and motivate us but also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy and thriving studio businesses.

Part of Tammy's marketing success includes handwritten thank you cards that she mails to her clients. It's cool to see Tammy finding simple ways to do more when so many businesses are doing less!

If you'd like to learn more about Tammy's photography, please take a peek at her website: www.tammybrice.com
And please follow her on LinkedIn.

Cheers, Dwayne Brown.

Headshot Photography in the age of AI

By: Barry Keegan, Ottawa, Canada / Fractional Chief Marketing Officer + AI specialist

Headshot Photography is in the age of AI, and we want to chat with our members about it. I spoke with two photographers who are ready for it. (Well, kind of. The truth is, it's pretty complicated.)

In the rapidly evolving realm of digital photography, artificial intelligence is not just a tool—it's a way to expand creative processes. While it can sometimes miss the mark and strip away the personal touch, it also holds the potential to inspire new forms of artistic expression and push creative boundaries.

But, wait… Imagine, for a minute, if someone took your paintbrush and replaced it with a robot arm. Sure, it might paint faster, but where's the soul of the image gone?

AI has transformed many industries, indeed, with the emergence of OpenAI’s ChatGPT and other Large Language Models. We're now coming into Q3 of 2024, and we see it integrated into every software-as-a-service tool imaginable, including those used by photographers (No, this is not an article about Adobe's Ts&Cs. Maybe we'll do that some other time). It's like AI is the new avocado toast—everyone's trying to add it to everything.

I sat down recently with two professional photographers and associate members of Headshots Matter, Jordan Fraker from Dallas, Texas, USA, and Crystal Mercredi from Calgary, Canada, to chat with them about the impact AI tools have on them, the excitement of smother workflows and faster production, and their concerns about the future of the sector. (Spoiler alert: there's some good and some bad.)

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Blending Artistry with Technology (or Trying To, Anyway)

Commercial photographers like Jordan are navigating the complexities of this tech shift. He’s looking to strike a delicate balance between AI's efficiency and the irreplaceable value of artistic authenticity. It’s a fine line for him.

Jordan, who's been a photographer for nearly two decades, reflects on the early integration of AI in tools like Photoshop.

"We've been using auto colour and auto levels for over two decades in Photoshop," he notes. “These features have significantly evolved, improving workflow and helping me create final images quicker.”

Despite these advancements, Jordan remains cautiously optimistic about AI's role in photography. He believes that while AI can streamline processes, it doesn't account for his or anyone's personal touch that defines his style (I agree with him, I mean, check out his Instagram to see for yourself).

"It's not going to be there for me until it can kind of learn from me what I like and then start doing things the way I want them to be," Jordan explains.

Photographers like Jordan say that it produces a lot of mediocrity and not a lot of art. (Maybe it needs a crash course in how to be an artistic genius, or perhaps it will always aim for humdrum.)

Practical Applications of AI

Jordan recently found a practical use for Photoshop's new AI tools while working for a greeting card and gift company. He and the creative owner needed something unique.

"It's me and the owner talking. So, there was no agency involved. And she's highly creative, the owner of this company. So, after bouncing many different ideas off of her, we landed on taking photos of these women and making a composite," Jordan explained. "All of these illustrated backgrounds were generated by AI. I did go in and do some fixes, but for the most part [Adobe] Firefly did it," he revealed.

Jordan Fraker / Dallas, Texas / Associate member of Headshots Matter

Yet, for all the efficiencies gained, Jordan remains wary of overreliance on AI—fearing it might diminish the authenticity central to his work. He argues that while helpful, the current generation of AI tools cannot truly understand and replicate the artistic intent that comes naturally to people. This sentiment is broadly shared by the photography community—including our Headshots Matter members— who value the human touch.

The Human-AI Partnership (It's Complicated)

Meanwhile, Crystal Mercredi is also dipping her toes in the AI waters in Calgary. She's embracing it, but with a healthy dose of realism. "AI is not perfect, and you can't just spit something in and expect it to be [...] but it allows us to push the envelope of new possibilities," Crystal explains.

Crystal shared a story about a conference where one of her colleagues went all in on AI for an events project. This photographer used Evoto and its AI tools to edit and deliver—wait for it—109 headshots in a single day. That's like, what, a headshot every 5 minutes?!

"It wasn't the same quality as a custom headshot session, but for a quick turnaround, it was an interesting use of AI," Crystal says.

Quantity over quality, maybe, but sometimes that's what the job calls for.

Inspired by this AI speed run, Crystal decided to try Evoto herself. "It speeds up my workflow and offers more consistency, so everything starts from the same place," she adds.

Crystal Mercredi / Calgary, Canada / Associate member of Headshots Matter

These projects show how AI tools can be a real lifesaver for those high-volume gigs—freeing up photographers to focus on the creative stuff and actually talk to their clients. Because let's face it, no one became a photographer to spend hours hunched over a computer (It is a reality with digital workflow, though).

Both Jordan and Crystal are happy with how they’ve used AI so far but only use it when it makes sense (And works as both of them commented during their interviews). You also have to be careful with how you use it so it doesn’t distract or take away from the client’s images.

"If you're using an AI headshot, for example, and something that's not real, that's actually doing the total opposite of building trust with your target audience,” says Crystal. “So I would say you are much better off with an ugly picture, you know, with that unpretty picture, than you are with an AI picture."

It's all about building trust and telling authentic stories through images. That separates the pros from the Instagram filters (note that Instagram even tags images deemed AI).

The Future Ahead

The photography industry is facing significant changes. The choices made now will shape how we take pictures and how creativity adapts to new technologies. As Jordan puts it, "It's about using these tools to make our work more our work."

By thoughtfully incorporating new technologies, photographers might enhance their artistry while staying true to their roots. But what does this mean for the future? It's hard to say for sure.

"AI is not going to look artificial for very long. So now we just need to decide, is there a way that we can still make a living? I mean, that's really the point is yes, right now it all looks kind of like shit," Jordan says. "A lot of it does, but can we hang on to the coattails of AI and go along this ride and continue being artists utilizing it?"

Crystal offers some great practical advice to photographers who are testing these AI tools.

"So there's a benefit to being an early adopter. There's a benefit to being like kind of a wait-and-see. And you just have to find like, don't always be the early adopter or you'll always be dealing with the bumps and just find like, where do you feel like you can try something new? So if there's an area of your workflow that's like, you know, if there's an area of your workflow that's currently causing you frustration, that's probably an area you should try to see if there's something better out there."

Photographers like Jordan and Crystal are not just using these new tools—they're helping us understand how these technologies affect creative work. Their insights will be crucial in guiding the development of AI to support artistic expression while preserving the human element in photography. (and maybe it keeps a bit of that human magic alive).

So, there you have it, AI: it's messy, exciting, and a little bit scary, but hey, that's progress for you (I guess).

Keep your eyes on this space—it's gonna be an interesting ride. We're certainly keeping an eye on it here at Headshots Matter.

Cheers, Barry

Connect with Barry on LinkedIn for more marketing and AI news.

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Thanks so much to Jordan Fraker and Crystal Mercredi for taking the time to share their thoughts about AI and how it’s impacting their businesses. To learn more about Jordan’s work, please view his website: www.jordanfraker.com
And Crystal’s work can be found at: www.lifeandportraits.com

Thanks, Dwayne Brown
Headshots Matter

How Collaborating with Headshots Matter Took Juan Ávila Photography to a Global Stage

By: Juan Ávila, Salinas, California / Associate Member of Headshots Matter

Putting the Snap in Snapchat with Headshot Photography

Our photography business changed last year…

We teamed up with Headshots Matter, a network connecting over 150 professional photographers worldwide that we are part of. What did that mean for Juan Ávila Photography?

Well, that's the cool thing. It meant a thrilling opportunity to collaborate on a global project alongside nine other photographers from cities including New York, Toronto, London, Paris, and Berlin.

What was the project? It was for a well-known social media company that young people love and that parents lament. Yep, you guessed it—Snapchat!

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@Juan ávila / SnapChat employees in Palo Alto

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Thanks to our partnership with Headshots Matter, we were selected to represent California (Palo Alto) in a nine-city global headshot initiative for Snapchat employees.

The iconic Snapchat yellow, specifically Pantone Process Yellow or hex #FFFF00 for digital applications, was a key element of the shoot. Our project lead, Dwayne Brown from Headshots Matter, and the other photographers on the team sourced and matched the exact yellow (or as close as we could get), ensuring that each backdrop perfectly reflected Snapchat's vibrant brand color. Yes, we could have done it post-production using Adobe Firefly's AI tools, but we did it old-fashioned for the best result for our client.

On shoot day, I must have shot 94 people. By the end, I was exhausted but couldn't wait to start post-production, where the brand and its employees began to shine in the final images.

I rarely reflect on these things, but this one was so incredible that I wanted to share it on social (LinkedIn, Instagram) and on the site. The fact is that you know when something clicks and changes the direction of your business. This was one of those moments for us, and I'm proud of my team for making it possible. The global project brought us amazing recognition and a new opportunity to work with a global client. (What a privilege!)

So, without sounding too promotional, I'm a professional photographer who always wants to tell more employee stories. I'm only too pleased to work with global titans and Main Street businesses. If you want to enhance your company's image, let's discuss how we can help.

Thanks for letting me share,

Juan

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Thanks so much to Juan Ávila for this contribution and his awesome work on the Snapchat project last year!

Follow Juan on LinkedIn and Instagram to view more of his current work and of course, his website at:
www.juanavilaphotography.com

If anyone has contribution ideas, we’d love to hear them! Just drop me an email at: dwayne@headshotsmatter.com

Cheers, Dwayne Brown
Headshots Matter

Back to Old-School Marketing

By: Craig Greenslade, London, UK / Associate Member of Headshots Matter

When running your own business, the digital marketing landscape can sometimes feel overwhelming. Between SEO optimization, pay-per-click campaigns, and the ever-evolving social media algorithms, it can sometimes feel like you’re drowning. The last few months of turbulence in the Google algorithm alone has some SEO experts declaring (again!) that the end of the SEO industry is nigh. So, what if we went back to basics? What if we traded the targeted ads for old-school printed media? That’s exactly what I decided to do last weekend. Armed with a stack of high-quality printed flyers and a healthy dose of optimism, I set out to rediscover the power of traditional print and face-to-face marketing. I decided to take out the bike, partly as I haven’t been able to hit the gym often over the last few weeks, and I figured it would be a great way to get some exercise, fresh air, and more opportunity to scope out other local businesses. And what did I find out?  There were some unexpected turns on this journey. Here’s the lowdown, complete with takeaways that might surprise you.

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© Craig Greenslade / the Headshot Pro

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Lesson Learned #1: Not All Businesses Are A Match

Maybe unsurprisingly, nail salons probably weren’t the best target audience for my headshot services. A lack of waiting areas combined with wet nail polish was not a great prospect! This experience highlighted the importance of strategic targeting.

Takeaway:  Even if your target audience might be on point, you need to deliver your media at the right time and in the right format.

Lesson Learned #2: Barbershops Can Build Communities

The vibe in barbershops was a pleasant surprise. Unlike the fast-paced energy of nail salons, barbershops offer a more relaxed atmosphere. The barbers themselves were genuinely interested in my services and happy to help. One of these contacts generated a potential lead which is a great result!

Takeaway:  The variety of barbershops range from quick and cheap to expensive and luxurious. This highlighted how two businesses selling the same base service can cater to vastly different audiences.

Lesson Learned #3: Niches Waiting to Be Explored

The higher-end salons I visited were mostly appointment-only which meant a lack of waiting areas.  Also, their focus on in-house product promotions left no room for external marketing, so my flyers remained in my hands. They weren’t a great fit for traditional flyer distribution, but it sparked an idea. These businesses were potentially a source for collaborative marketing.

Takeaway:  When one idea doesn’t work out, there may still be potential for inspiration and new ideas!

Lesson Learned #4: The Local Hidden Gems

Let’s be honest, how often do we truly explore our local neighbourhoods? I like to walk but sticking to familiar routes can lead to a missed opportunity, especially if travelling by road or rail. My cycling adventure led me past many boutiques and independent shops that I had never noticed. Each one is a potential client and a chance to expand my network.

Takeaway:  Get out there and explore your local community! You might be surprised by the hidden gems and potential business partners waiting to be discovered.

Lesson Learned #5: The Studio Dream

Seeing all these fantastic businesses operating out of dedicated spaces solidified a long-held dream of mine: having my own studio! I mostly work from my home studio or on location which has many benefits besides avoiding the horrendous London rates. However, a dedicated studio would allow more freedom to experiment and work on larger projects.

Takeaway:  Walking through the doors of different businesses and seeing how each space is created to reflect their individuality can be inspirational.

Lesson Learned #6: The Booming Business of Pet Grooming

Seven dog groomers in a single afternoon! Who knew the pet pampering industry was thriving so much? Another reason to get a dedicated studio space – offering pet portrait sessions alongside headshots!

Takeaway:  Be open to opportunities outside your core service area. There might be untapped markets waiting to be explored.

The Biggest Takeaway: Getting Out There Pays Off

Did every flyer I handed out translate into an immediate booking? No. But that wasn’t the point. This exercise was about getting back to the heart of connection. It was about building relationships with other local businesses and looking for new audiences. So, the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed by the digital marketing world, consider taking a step back, get outside and remember to touch the grass once in a while. You might be surprised by the connections you make, the inspiration you find, and the unexpected opportunities that arise.

Cheers, Craig
theheadshotpro.co.uk

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We’re very grateful to Craig Greenslade for this contribution and for his ideas and ‘Creative Hustle’ on our WhatsApp channel!

Follow Craig on LinkedIn at: www.linkedin.com/in/craiggreenslade and Instagram at: @craig.greenslade

If anyone has contribution ideas, we’d love to hear them! Just drop me an email at: dwayne@headshotsmatter.com

Cheers, Dwayne Brown

Expert Strategies: Boosting Business Through Effective Networking

By: Stephanie Belton, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, UK / Associate Member of Headshots Matter

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A few weeks ago, I was chatting with a few fellow Associate Members on WhatsApp about various methods to make connections, generate leads, and ultimately increase business. After sharing some strategies and showcasing what has worked for me, I was asked to compile a list of 10 helpful tips to enhance your networking and business development efforts. I also give you a bonus one for good measure.

We all have great ways to help drive our business. I hope you find these tips helpful and I encourage you to share your strategies with our community—every piece of advice can make a difference.

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© Alistair Veryard

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Here are my Top 10 Networking Tips for Photographers:. I hope they help you as much as they have helped me.

1. Make Sure Everyone Knows Your Profession

Make sure everyone you know knows what you do for a living. It seems obvious, but people who know you can be your best advocates. This includes school parents, your hairdresser, your sports team, and Facebook friends. They will be the ones tagging you on social media if an opportunity arises.

2. Connect with Other Photographers in Your Area

You may have different styles, areas of expertise, price points, and availability. If I can’t do a shoot, I always recommend someone else who I think would be a good fit. Ensure you respect boundaries (no copying, no poaching clients) to maintain that relationship.

3. In-Person Networking

Research the networking groups local to you; most will let you have a trial session before joining. Don’t expect to get any business from a trial session; this is just an opportunity to see if the format works for you and if there is synergy with attendees. These could be potential clients or, more importantly, the kind of businesses that can recommend you to their network.

4. Connect with Suppliers “Upstream”

Connect with suppliers who are “upstream” of you—the suppliers your clients will typically reach out to first. For wedding clients, this will typically be the wedding venue. For commercial photographers, this may be the brand agency or website designer. Find those who are a good fit for your style; they know their job will be much easier if the photos are on point.

5. Use Photography to Give Back

Photography can be a great way to volunteer for a cause close to your heart while doing something you love. This can mean capturing the work of a small local charity (very shareable content), a charity fundraiser attended by local businesses, or even just your kid’s school or sports events. People will get used to seeing you around with your camera, to see how beautifully you have captured an event, and make those positive associations.

6. Get Involved with Community or Personal Projects

Get involved with community projects, or personal projects which will resonate with your target audience. For example, covering a TEDx talk in your local area or a personal project on breastfeeding if you’re a newborn/family photographer.

7. Leverage Corporate Connections

After a corporate headshot session, wait a couple of weeks and connect on LinkedIn with all the employees who have updated their profile photos, especially those you connected with during the photo shoot. You will easily find them in the People section of the Company Page.

8. Always Request Reviews and Recommendations

Always ask for a review (Google, Yell) or a LinkedIn recommendation after a shoot, especially if the client is complimentary. This is a good reminder also to leave a review for any businesses that do an excellent job for you, from your optician to your window cleaner, just because!

9. Connect with Local Businesses on LinkedIn

Look up local companies on LinkedIn and connect with the marketing director, HR director, or executive assistant. Pre-qualify your connection by finding something in common, if possible. For example, doing a shoot in a nice office block, make a note of the other businesses sharing the building (this is as simple as taking a photo of the signage in the lobby), then connect with them, explaining you were recently at their premises taking photos for [insert client name]. This will automatically give you a lot more credibility.

10. Enter Photography Awards

Love or loathe them, you can’t deny that awards raise a supplier’s profile, and posts sharing wins always create a lot of engagement on social media.

My Bonus Tip / Be a Community Connector!

Remember, this isn’t just about you! Recommend people to each other and be a good person. What goes around comes around!

Thanks,
Stephanie Belton
www.stephaniebelton.com

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We’re very grateful to Stephanie for her contribution with this post and also for all of her ideas and positive spirit on the Associate Member WhatsApp channel!

Follow Stephanie on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-belton-photography
and Instagram at: @stephaniebelton 

If anyone has contribution ideas, I’d love to hear them! Just drop me an email at: dwayne@headshotsmatter.com

Cheers, Dwayne Brown

How to Choose the Right Headshot Photographer

By: Dwayne Brown / Founder and Community Curator of Headshots Matter

Investing in professional headshots is more than just capturing a likeness; it's about conveying your unique personality, professionalism, and brand story. Choosing the right photographer for your headshots can make all the difference in how your potential clients, employers, and colleagues perceive you. A skilled photographer has the technical expertise to capture high-quality images and understands the importance of client comfort, effective communication, and storytelling. By selecting a photographer specializing in headshot photography and prioritizing these elements, you can ensure that your headshots look great, effectively represent your brand and make a lasting impression.

© Headshots Matter Inc.

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Top Nine Tips When Choosing The Right Headshot Photographer

Tip 1: Look for Specialization

Seek out photographers who specialize specifically in headshot photography. By choosing a specialist, you ensure you're working with someone who has honed their skills and expertise in capturing the perfect headshot.

Tip 2: Review Their Online Portfolio for Consistency

When evaluating potential photographers, review their website to ensure consistency in style and quality. Look for a portfolio that showcases a variety of headshots and demonstrates the photographer's ability to capture diverse subjects effectively.

Tip 3: Prioritize Comfort and Connection

Opt for a photographer who prioritizes your comfort and confidence during the shoot. A photographer who can establish rapport, provide guidance, and create a relaxed atmosphere will help bring out your best expressions and ensure a successful session.

Tip 4: Assess Equipment and Technology

Consider the equipment and technology used by the photographer. Look for someone who invests in high-quality cameras, lenses, lighting gear, and editing software to deliver professional-grade headshots that meet your expectations.

Tip 5: Seek Recommendations and Reviews

Don't hesitate to ask for recommendations from colleagues, friends, or industry professionals who have had positive experiences with headshot photographers. Additionally, read online reviews and LinkedIn testimonials to gauge client satisfaction and the photographer's reputation.

Tip 6: Assess Communication Skills

Communication is key to a successful collaboration. Choose a photographer who listens attentively to your needs, asks relevant questions, and communicates clearly throughout the process. Effective communication ensures that your vision is understood and executed effectively. This starts with email correspondence and a phone call!

Tip 7: Evaluate Their Ability to Tell a Story

Look for photographers with a keen eye for storytelling. A great headshot goes beyond capturing a likeness; it conveys personality, emotion, and narrative. Choose a photographer who understands the power of visual storytelling and can craft headshots that resonate with your brand identity and message.

Tip 8: Seek Creative Collaboration

Opt for a photographer who values collaboration and creative input. A photographer who welcomes your ideas, offers suggestions, and works collaboratively to bring your vision to life can ensure that the resulting headshots align with your brand story and messaging.

Tip 9: Investing in Your Professional Brand

When selecting the best headshot photographer, consider it an investment in your professional brand. While upfront costs are essential, focus on the long-term value of high-quality headshots as an asset to your career. A skilled photographer can capture images that enhance your professional image and serve as a valuable asset for various purposes, including networking, job applications, and personal branding. Choose a photographer whose rates align with your budget while delivering the quality and service necessary to enhance your professional brand effectively.

Emotional Intelligence vs Artificial Intelligence.

By: Dwayne Brown / Founder and Community Curator of Headshots Matter

As the founder of Headshots Matter and a corporate portrait photographer for many years, I've been thinking a lot about the benefits and concerns of artificial intelligence and how it impacts corporate and creative headshot photography.

As we navigate the era of advancing artificial intelligence, it's vital to recognize its impact on the photography industry. While AI may present new avenues for post-production and creative ideation, the unique value of emotional intelligence remains unparalleled. It is the cornerstone of creating authentic, evocative, and on-brand headshots and portraits, reassuring us of our professional worth and inspiring us to refine this personal and distinctive skill further. 

Recently, I had the honour of collaborating with a prominent government official. Her portraits needed to convey confidence, professionalism, approachability, and friendliness. This collaborative process, requiring a keen sense of emotional intelligence, underscores the unique value that only a human photographer can bring to the table, making us all the more essential in this era of advancing artificial intelligence.

While AI-generated portraits may offer convenience, they cannot replace the role of emotional intelligence in capturing the essence of a subject's brand story. As photographers, we bear the responsibility and privilege of ensuring that the images we create are visually appealing and emotionally impactful. We are the ones who shape the setting, the lighting, and the mood, decisions that mirror our unique perspective and creative control, empowering us to remain essential in this era of advancing artificial intelligence. 

In this era of advancing artificial intelligence, I am intrigued by its impact on the photography industry. Yet, it's a subject that unites us, igniting our curiosity and propelling us to explore uncharted territories. This curiosity and engagement, the lifeblood of our industry, inspire and motivate us to keep it vibrant and evolving, reminding us of the unique value we bring as photographers.

I'd love to hear your views and ideas on how artificial intelligence impacts your photography business.

Cheers, Dwayne Brown

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Note: A special thanks to all of the Headshots Matter members who bring their talents and creativity to every portrait they shoot and their courage to embrace new technologies in their photography practices! 

The Team is Growing

As our Headshots Matter community grows, so does our team. I’m very proud to welcome Barry Keegan officially as our HSM Fractional CMO! He brings 17 years of marketing and communication experience from his career spanning the private, public, and non-profit sectors. In his role, he’ll be responsible for driving growth through innovative marketing campaigns, fostering global community connections, and integrating AI strategies and tools.

Barry will also be available for one-on-one consultations with our members to help them focus on digital marketing, develop their content strategy, and get more out of LinkedIn networking.

Please send us a direct message to learn more or to schedule some one-on-one time with Barry.

Cheers, Dwayne

© Headshots matter / Meeing in Montreal with Mike Jean-Baptisite

OUTSIDERS by Sara Ghedina

We're very proud to share a wonderful and powerful creative project called OUTSIDERS by Sara Ghedina. Sara is a Venice-based portrait photographer, who we're very grateful to have as an HSM Creative Member. Please enjoy Sara’s words and imagery below.

Cheers, Dwayne

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© Sara ghedina

I started this project in the summer of 2022. I wanted to gain more experience doing portraits. I was also interested in photographing people generally marginalized or living at the fringe of society (some topics I've always been drawn to). Since I am a portrait photographer and do studio work, I wanted to create a series consistent with what I typically do. I knew I wouldn't have a photojournalistic approach, even though I have a deep appreciation for photographers who do that kind of work.

I thought about different subjects, like immigrants, for example, or caregivers who take care of elderly people (here in Italy, they are often women who come from Eastern Europe, and we tend to forget they have a family and should have a life of their own outside work, as they essentially live full time with the person they are in charge of supporting). One of the challenges was to have access to a whole group at once instead of finding single individuals and doing their portraits one at a time, which may have taken months or even years. I told my idea to some friends, and one of them got me connected with a woman who is in charge of a drug rehabilitation program in a facility not far from where I live (CEIS in Campocroce, Treviso). We met, I told her about my project, and she loved it, not only because she felt the need to show these young adults in a different light but also as something they could really enjoy doing. She told me that one of the difficult aspects of the program - among millions of others - is that you constantly need to find activities to keep them engaged and that may spark their interest because of the risk of falling back and returning "to the streets" as they put it is always very strong.

© Sara ghedina

I did my first series in August 2022. I photographed about 15-18 people and gave them three portraits each. I set up everything on location, had minimal equipment, and used a simple portable grey background and one beauty dish overhead.

I called the project OUTSIDERS because an outsider is someone who doesn't fit in, who lives on the fringe of society and is excluded from it, either by choice or by circumstances. But, more importantly, in sports language, an outsider also emerges or wins by surprise, even if they are not among the favourites. And I wanted to emphasize their willingness to win their battle and live a normal life again. With my pictures, I tried to give voice to their stories of suffering and redemption, stories that we often refuse to see because we are blinded by prejudice, have difficulty understanding them, or lack empathy.

The project was presented in late September during their traditional End of Summer Party when parents, relatives and members of the community visited the facility and offered their support. All the portraits were printed and showcased in a dedicated room, and I cannot tell you how many parents came to me with tears, thanking me for taking those pictures and giving their kids a different experience. Needless to say, I was really happy and moved myself.

© Sara ghedina

I did the same thing in November last year, with new subjects and a different light/background setup. This time, I used two lights and a larger backdrop with props like a table and apple boxes to give the poses some variety.

I may volunteer to do it again in the following months. At this point, I became friends with the woman in charge of the program, and she loved it when I took the time to do it. I would love to keep the project going and have a more extensive series that could spark more interest.

And most of all, it's been a valuable experience for me as a person, I was somewhat worried in the beginning because I was afraid I wouldn't know what to say or how to interact with these guys, but really, I had no reason to, they were really into the project and we had a lot of fun. Some women came in before being photographed and were shaking, telling me they were nervous and couldn't keep still during the session. I had them close their eyes and breathe slowly to calm down, thinking about something beautiful and relaxing, like a sunny beach on the Mediterranean or a green meadow. And that gave me the idea of photographing some of them with their eyes closed as if they were imagining a different future for themselves.

© Sara ghedina

Another challenge was that many of the guys were wearing large hoodies with giant logos and/or large sweatpants, which were not the most flattering clothes to photograph. I simply asked them to take the hoodies off and wear their t-shirt only, or, if they had tattoos (which most of them had), I asked them if they wouldn't mind taking the shirt off as well and show their ink and they were really happy to do, as in most cases their tattoos had some special meaning. Overall, it was a great experience, emotionally more than anything; I am really happy I had the opportunity to do it and inspire someone else to do the same as a way to deepen our empathy and kindness and to fight our own prejudices.

Sara Ghedina

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To see more of Sara’s work, please visit her website at: www.saraghedina.com

Photography Adjacent Podcast: Embracing Humility

We're excited to celebrate the latest achievement of one of our talented members, Tom Trevatt, as he launched his podcast, 'Photography Adjacent,' earlier this week. Dedicated to engaging with diverse creatives, including artists, writers, thinkers, activists, experts, and the occasional photographer, Tom's podcast promises to be an inspiring journey into the world of creativity.

I had the pleasure of being Tom's first guest on the show, where I had the opportunity to share my professional story and offer some behind-the-scenes inspiration to the Headshots Matter community. Seeing our members pursue their passions and take their creative careers to new heights is truly rewarding. I’d also like to compliment and recognize Barry Keegan for doing such a great job producing the podcast!

We can’t wait to see (and hear) Tom’s upcoming interviews! Oh yeah, don’t forget to subscribe on Youtube and/or where ever you listen to your podcasts!

Cheers, Dwayne Brown

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Headshots of actors looking like themselves.

We’re very pleased to welcome London-based photographer, Chris Mann as an Associate Photographer to Headshots Matter. In a very competitive market, Chris photographs actors better than just about anyone in London. His headshots may seem simple, yet they are authentic, honest and perhaps even leaning toward the vulnerable. They even capture a sense of time-fluidity in a single moment. Most importantly, casting agents love his work because he captures the real person in front of his camera.

Chris also puts the style and story of who he’s photographing before his own, which is why his actors’ headshots are so strong and effective! Great work, Chris!

To see more of Chris’ work, please take a look at his HSM gallery page.

Cheers, Dwayne

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© Chris Mann Portraits

New HSM Members | Sharon Smith

Were very excited to welcome Sharon Smith of Hippy & Bloom / Dublin, Ireland - to our Headshots Matter family! Sharon and her creative partner Bronwyn O’Brien have been capturing families in the most beautiful and authentic style and now Sharon is sharing her work capturing authentic headshots of actors and individuals for their LinkedIn profiles. To see more of Sharon’s work, please take a peek at her gallery page.

We can’t wait to share more of Sharon’s headshot photography on Instagram in the coming weeks!

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Sean's Pick of the Week / #potw

by Sean Lewthwaite / @stockholm_sean

“For me, the colour and composition is perfect and the eye contact with his subject is flawless.” 🙌

To see more of Vancouver-based photographer Gordon Clark’s work, please check out his website.

Sean

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© Gordon Clark Photography

“One of the most valuable qualities or characteristics of any community is support.”

Creativity Matters

As a headshot photographer, you might find yourself experiencing slower times, where clients seem few and far between. It can be easy to fall into a negative or fearful mindset and feel discouraged during these times. However, embracing a creative and abundant mindset can help you survive and thrive during these slower periods.

Adopting a creative mindset can help you get out of a rut and develop fresh ideas. Instead of feeling stuck and uninspired, you can use this time to experiment with new techniques or explore different photography styles. Try incorporating new lighting techniques, playing with different backdrops or posing, or experimenting with post-processing techniques. By challenging yourself to think outside the box, you might discover new ways to enhance your work and attract new clients.

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© Aaron Jean / Madrid, Spain

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Embracing an abundance mindset can help you shift your focus from scarcity to abundance. Instead of obsessing over a lack of clients, try to focus on the abundance of opportunities. For example, during slower times, you can use this opportunity to strengthen your online presence by updating your website and social media strategies. You can also use this time to network with other professionals in your industry, participate in online communities, or even attend industry events. By shifting your focus and taking advantage of these opportunities, you can attract new clients and build stronger relationships with your existing clients.

Adopting a positive mindset can help you attract positive energy and opportunities. By focusing on what you want instead of what you lack, you can attract more of what you desire. Try practicing gratitude and focusing on the positive aspects of your business. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small, and use them as motivation to keep moving forward.

A creative and abundant mindset can help you thrive as a headshot photographer during slower times. By challenging yourself to think creatively, focusing on abundance, taking advantage of opportunities, and adopting a positive outlook, you can attract new clients, build stronger relationships, and enhance your overall business.

If you have any questions and/or ideas or need emotional support during the quieter time in business, please reach out anytime via email, phone or WhatsApp.

Cheers, Dwayne Brown
Headshots Matter
dwayne@headshotsmatter.com
+1 (613) 290-5737

2023 Headshots Matter Holiday Cheer!

It’s been another wonderful year with Headshots Matter! Our membership has grown every month, so our community has gotten richer and even more helpful. With that growth, we’ve also seen our social media accounts grow, especially our LinkedIn page, at just over 3400 followers. As we move into 2024, we’ll be upping our LinkedIn game, where there is so much potential for lead generation for each member and our overall membership. 

We’ll also continue to grow and share our peer-to-peer mentorship program with sessions from Tom Trevatt, Sean Lewthwaite, Linda Mackie, Barry Keegan and James Melia. We’ll also be creating more StudioTalk virtual sessions and interviews. 

As I write this, I’m humbled that Headshots Matter is a true community of generous, kind and helpful photographers complimented by other creative experts. I’ve seen friendships develop over our WhatsApp group and, with those friendships, creative growth. I’m beyond grateful to all members, past and present, who have graciously been a part of this cool and creative community! And I look forward to seeing as many of you as possible on our first Headshots Matter Holiday Cheer today on Zoom.

For those of you who couldn’t make it to the virtual party, I invite you to share a comment below Mod Schwalbe’s very sweet and heartfelt video message.

Again, thanks to everyone for another great year, and I wish you and your families a safe and joyous holiday with much creative success in 2024!

Cheers, Dwayne

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© Mod Schwalbe / Brooklyn, New York

Transcendence

At Headshots Matter, we curate and champion great headshot photographers who consistently push boundaries and shoot with their own creative voice. We love the work of Afonso Azevedo Neves and, more importantly, his passionate drive to constantly shoot.

From his studio in Lisbon, Portugal, Afonson shoots beautiful portraits and shares them on social at least once a day. Sometimes, his portraits are BW headshot studies; sometimes, they feel more like emotionally connected experiences and sometimes, like this photograph, they transcend the viewer to a different era. 

We’re very grateful to have Afonso a part of our Headshots Matter community!

If you’ve like to view more of Afonso’s work, please check our his website at: www.ofotografoportugues.com

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Beatriz photographed by Afonso Azevedo Neves

Words

As Tom Trevatt shared yesterday on Instagram, “it’s really difficult to put words to some of my favourite shots…..” We couldn't agree more, but perhaps some images just don’t need words to describe them, or maybe they’re beyond them. Either way, we absolutely love Tom’s portraits of London photographer, Kezi. They’re calmly lit and captured with such reverence and honesty.

Beautiful work, Tom + Kezi!

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© Tom Tevatt Photography

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To view more of Tom Trevatt’s work: www.tomtrevatt.com and to consider a mentorship session with Tom: www.headshotsmatter.com/creative-mentorship-tom-trevatt

Creative Mindset

It may seem obvious, but having a creative mindset is crucial for a successful and enjoyable headshot photography business. I was wonderfully reminded of this during a Zoom chat with Headshots Matter photographer Jordan Fraker. As we discussed his website and social media presentation, Jordan emphasized the importance of maintaining an 'art student mindset'.

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© Jordan Fraker Photography

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Jordan runs a successful commercial studio in Dallas, shooting everything from headshots to corporate photography to advertising campaigns. He also focuses on shooting personal work and creatively kindling his commercial career. Keeping his art student headspace alive keeps his eyes open and his heart hungry to create fantastic imagery!

Thanks, Jordan, for being an art student at heart! We’re super glad to have you as an inspiring part of our creative community!

If you’re not already familiar with Jordan’s work, please take a look at his website: www.jordanfraker.com

Cheers, Dwayne

Sean's Pick of the Week / #hsothw

by Sean Lewthwaite / @stockholm_sean

For me, ‘headshot of the week’ without a doubt! The colours, composition and eye contact are wonderful 🙌

To see more of Dominican Rebublic based photographer Dareynnis Collado’s work, please check out her Instagram.

Sean

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© darecphoto

MENTORSHIP MATTERS

It was super nice to spend some ‘one on one’ time with Mike Euclide Jean-Baptiste this weekend in Montreal! It gave us time to talk about Mike’s corporate headshot business and how Headshots Matter has helped him, not only with his SEO and marketing but also creatively with the kind help of Sean McLatchie Lewthwaite, one of our awesome mentors.

During our chat, we also talked about Mike’s life long passion for drawing and capturing portraits and his desire to help his clients with his photography. We also talked about the balance of humility and creative confidence, and how it only requires time and practice to perfect the balance.

Mentorship definitely is a two way conversation and I’m so grateful that we had this opportunity!

Dwayne Brown
Founder + Senior Mentor
Headshots Matter

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© JENNIFER KIMBERLY BROWN / HEADSHOTS MATTER