Beyond Corporate Headshots: Creative Portrait Photography with Bobby Ford, VP of Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Beyond Corporate Headshots: Creative Portrait Photography with Bobby Ford, VP of Hewlett Packard Enterprise
Introduction
In the competitive world of professional photography in Washington, DC, I strive to offer something different—something beyond the typical, stiff corporate headshots that dominate the market. My focus is on editorial portrait photography, a style that brings emotion, creativity, and variety to professional imagery. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with Bobby Ford, the Vice President of Hewlett Packard Enterprise, to create a series of portraits that not only met but exceeded the standard expectations for corporate headshots.
The Standard vs. Editorial Approach
In Washington, DC, most headshot photographers adhere to a standard formula: corporate, polished, but often lacking in personality. These headshots, while functional, often fail to capture the individuality and depth of the subject. This is where editorial portrait photography stands out. It’s about more than just a head-and-shoulders shot; it’s about creating images that tell a story, convey emotion, and offer versatility.
Bobby Ford recognized the need for something beyond the ordinary. He wanted images that would not only look great on LinkedIn but also work well when featured in an article, when receiving an award, or when stepping onto a stage for a speaking engagement. This desire for versatile, impactful imagery is what led him to choose an editorial approach for his session.
Showcasing Bobby Ford's Portraits
During Bobby Ford’s session, we explored several different looks and setups, each tailored to meet a specific professional need:
LinkedIn-ready Headshots:
We started with a classic look, but with a twist—adding creativity and depth that set his headshots apart from the typical corporate style. These shots are perfect for his LinkedIn profile, offering a polished yet approachable image that stands out in a sea of standard headshots.
Feature-Worthy Portraits:
We then moved on to create portraits designed for media features and professional recognition. These images are more dynamic, capturing Bobby’s confidence and leadership qualities, making them ideal for articles, press releases, and award nominations.
Stage-Ready Shots:
Finally, we focused on portraits that would be perfect for speaking engagements. These shots are bold and dynamic, capturing the energy and authority that Bobby brings to the stage. They convey a sense of presence and are perfect for promotional materials related to his public speaking roles.
Each of these portraits serves a unique purpose, showcasing different aspects of Bobby Ford’s personality and professional image. This versatility is what makes editorial portrait photography so valuable—it’s not just about getting a good headshot; it’s about creating images that can be used across various platforms and contexts.
Why Choose Editorial Portrait Photography?
Headshots are not one-size-fits-all. Every client is different, with their own unique personality and professional needs, and they deserve a photographer who can tailor their approach accordingly. Editorial portrait photography offers this flexibility, providing a range of images that are not only suitable for LinkedIn but also for features, awards, and speaking engagements.
The key to great editorial portraits is capturing emotion and creativity. It’s about moving beyond the standard corporate look and creating images that tell a story and make a lasting impression. Bobby Ford’s session is a perfect example of how editorial portraits can elevate professional imagery, offering variety and depth that standard headshots simply can’t match.
Conclusion
Bobby was gracious enough to provide a video testimonial following his session. I encourage you to watch it to hear about his experience firsthand. If you’re seeking something beyond the typical corporate headshot, let’s collaborate to create portraits that reflect your individuality and professional essence, making a lasting impression.
Contact Information
Ready to elevate your professional image? Contact us today to book your session!
FAQs
What is the difference between editorial portrait photography and standard headshots?
Editorial portrait photography goes beyond the traditional head-and-shoulders shot, offering creative, versatile images that capture emotion, personality, and body language. By photographing above the knee, editorial portraits allow for a broader view that showcases more of the subject's body language and mood, adding depth and context to the image.
How should I prepare for my editorial portrait session?
Consider the various professional contexts in which you’ll use your images, and bring a range of outfits that reflect your style and the message you want to convey.
Can I use editorial portraits for corporate purposes?
Absolutely. Editorial portraits are versatile and can be used for LinkedIn, articles, awards, speaking engagements, and more.
Elevating Professional Branding: A Photoshoot with Renowned Psychologist Dr. Keith Bernardo
Washington DC Portrait photographer photographs renowned clinical psychologist Dr. Keith Bernardo.
Introduction
At my beautiful loft photography studio in Downtown Washington, DC, I have the privilege of working with incredible professionals, capturing their essence through powerful headshots and portraits. Recently, I had the pleasure of photographing Dr. Keith Bernardo, a renowned psychologist with a PhD in clinical psychology. Dr. Bernardo is embarking on a new journey, starting a podcast, and needed images that reflect his expertise and personality for various marketing purposes.
Preparation for the Photoshoot
Preparation is key to achieving the best results in any photoshoot. For Dr. Bernardo's session, we took meticulous care to ensure everything was perfect. I highly recommend all my clients consider a professional makeup artist and bring several wardrobe options to their shoot. Dr. Bernardo opted for a package that included a professional makeup artist, whom I provided to ensure he looked his best on camera. He also brought multiple wardrobe choices, allowing us to capture a range of looks that suit different aspects of his brand.
The Photoshoot Experience
Our session took place in my comfortable and well-equipped studio, designed to create a welcoming and professional environment. The inviting atmosphere helps clients feel at ease, which is crucial for capturing natural and authentic expressions. Dr. Bernardo and I connected over shared interests and life stories, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. This connection is vital as it translates into the photos, making them more relatable and impactful. Our goal was to create images that exude confidence, sophistication, approachability, and trustworthiness. These qualities are essential for Dr. Bernardo's professional image, especially as he reaches out to his audience through his new podcast.
Capturing the Perfect Shots
To highlight Dr. Bernardo's personality and professional image, I used various techniques tailored to bring out his best features. Our shared interests and the rapport we built played a significant role in achieving natural and compelling shots. We aimed for a balance between gravitas and approachability, ensuring his images convey both his expertise and his warm, trustworthy nature.
Throughout the session, we experimented with different wardrobe options, lighting setups, and poses. Each look was crafted to serve specific marketing needs, from formal portraits to more relaxed and approachable images. The diversity in his wardrobe allowed us to create a comprehensive portfolio that Dr. Bernardo can use across multiple platforms and marketing materials.
Building a Lasting Relationship
What started as a single photoshoot with Dr. Bernardo blossomed into a meaningful friendship and ongoing professional relationship. Since our first session, we have worked together three more times, each shoot reinforcing our mutual desire to create exceptional photography. This bond, built on trust and a shared passion, is what I strive to develop with all my clients. The collaborative effort to achieve great results not only enhances the final images but also fosters a deeper connection that reflects in the work.
Final Thoughts
Reflecting on this photoshoot, I am thrilled with the results we achieved. Dr. Bernardo's images perfectly encapsulate the qualities he wants to project to his audience. This experience underscores the importance of investing in professional headshots, particularly for established professionals looking to elevate their personal brand.
I encourage other professionals, especially men in high-level positions, to consider the value of high-quality headshots. They are an essential component of your personal branding strategy, helping you connect with your audience and stand out in your field.
Conclusion
Dr. Bernardo has been gracious enough to allow me to film our last photoshoot together, during which he also provided a testimonial on camera. I invite you to take a look at this video, where you can see the behind-the-scenes process and hear directly from Dr. Bernardo about his experience working with me. I believe this video beautifully captures the essence of our collaboration and the impact that professional headshots can have on your personal brand.
Contact Information:
Ready to elevate your professional image? Contact us today to book your session!
FAQs
Why should I hire a professional makeup artist for my photoshoot?
A professional makeup artist ensures you look your best on camera, highlighting your features and giving you a polished appearance.
What should I bring to my headshot session?
Bring multiple wardrobe options to provide variety in your shots. Consider outfits that reflect your professional image and personal style.
How can professional headshots benefit my personal brand?
Professional headshots help you make a strong first impression, convey your brand's values, and connect with your audience on a personal level.
Would you like a list of keywords to enhance your digital marketing, content strategy, PPC campaigns, social media engagement, and email marketing campaigns? Additionally, I can provide a list of related topics to help you create more content. Let me know how else I can assist you!
A Candid Session with Jake Tapper: Behind the Lens of a Memorable Photoshoot
As a professional headshot photographer in Washington, DC, I’ve had the pleasure of working with some truly fascinating individuals. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph CNN anchor, journalist, and author Jake Tapper for his upcoming book, All the Demons Are Here. What began as a quick shoot turned into an unexpectedly in-depth session, and I wanted to share a bit about the experience.
A 10-Minute Shoot Turns Into an Hour of Creativity
When Jake Tapper walked into my studio, he mentioned he only needed one photo for his book insert. We both thought it would be a quick 10-minute session. However, once we started, something incredible happened. We found our rhythm, and the session naturally extended to nearly an hour. It was a fantastic experience; we bonded over our shared love for old school hip hop. At the time, I was a new parent dealing with sleepless nights with a 2-month-old baby at home. Jake, who has two older kids, shared his experiences and assured me it would get better. I felt we genuinely connected, and I believe this connection is evident in the photos we captured.
Photos That Tell a Story
The photos from our session weren’t just standard headshots—they captured Jake’s personality and energy. It was important that these photos didn't just portray Jake as the news anchor everyone knows. Instead, we aimed to highlight his role as a distinguished author. It’s been exciting to see these images used in various places, from press coverage to Jake’s personal website, and even in the Hollywood Reporter, the Washington Post, and Esquire. Moments like these remind me why I love what I do.
Why Authentic Headshots Matter in Washington, DC
In a place as dynamic as Washington, DC, where media and professional networking are essential, having a great headshot can make a significant difference. Whether you're a journalist like Jake Tapper, an attorney, or a business professional, a well-crafted photo can help you connect with your audience. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about conveying who you are.
Let’s Capture Your Story
If you’re in the Washington, DC area and looking for professional headshots that go beyond the typical posed images, I’d love to work with you. My goal is to create a comfortable environment where your true self can shine through. Fill out the contact form below to learn more about the process and schedule a session with me.
Authentic Headshots for Washington, DC Attorneys: My Work with Jenner & Block LLP
As a professional headshot photographer based in Washington, DC, I am fortunate to have an ongoing partnership with Jenner & Block LLP, a prestigious law firm known for its excellence and professionalism. Each month, I am commissioned to update their attorney headshots at their Washington, DC headquarters, capturing the distinct personalities and expertise of their legal team.
Why Choose Authentic Headshots in Washington, DC?
In the competitive legal industry, having a professional and authentic headshot is crucial. It’s often the first impression potential clients or employers have of you. My approach to attorney headshots goes beyond the standard, posed photos that can feel rigid and impersonal. I focus on creating a comfortable environment where attorneys can relax and be themselves, resulting in headshots that truly reflect their character and professionalism.
Capturing the Essence of Washington, DC Attorneys
Working with Jenner & Block LLP's attorneys has allowed me to perfect a style that is both professional and authentic. Whether you're a seasoned attorney with years of experience or a new associate making your mark, I aim to capture your unique qualities. My sessions are more than just photo shoots—they are collaborative experiences where we work together to highlight your best features and convey the image you want to project.
Why Professional Headshots Matter for Attorneys in Washington, DC
In Washington, DC's legal community, a great headshot can set you apart. It's not just about looking good; it's about portraying confidence, approachability, and professionalism. These qualities are essential for attorneys who often need to build trust quickly with potential clients. My goal is to provide Washington, DC attorneys with headshots that do more than just look professional—they should tell a story and make a strong first impression.
Book Your Professional Attorney Headshot Session in Washington, DC
If you're an attorney in Washington, DC looking for a headshot that truly represents who you are, I invite you to explore my work and book a session. With a focus on authenticity and professionalism, I strive to create images that are not only visually appealing but also convey the essence of your legal practice. Visit my website to learn more and schedule your professional attorney headshot session in Washington, DC.
Preparing For A Portrait Session : 10 Tips
1.) Keep it Simple
It’s tempting to give into the urge to over-pose and over-accessorize, but the most timeless of portraits are typically very natural and uncomplicated in nature. Sticking to straight-forward themes enables more candid, powerful interactions and shots. I’ve seen that it also makes it easier to truly capture the subject, the emotions, and core of a person and their message.
2.) Get Ample Rest
You might not expect this, but photoshoots and creative endeavors in general (when done properly) can require a decent amount of energy and focus of both the photographer and the subject. In order to truly feel lively, and to avoid unnecessary dark under-eye circles, it’s smart to ensure that you get a good night’s sleep before the shoot. Planning this in along with your wardrobe and styling plans is essential. Being well rested will allow you to feel relaxed and ready.
3.) Hands-free
No, I’m not referring to bluetooth devices here … what I am insinuating is the importance of decluttering whatever items you keep on your person typically. Extra bags, headphones, scarves, drinks, etc. can add a bit of chaos to the process. I recommend bringing only the necessities with you into the studio, and better yet - consolidating them all into one bag if possible. This way, your thoughts aren’t scattered about keeping track of your things and you can feel more at ease.
4.) Be You
Powerful portraits are born of complete authenticity. I like to encourage everybody that I photograph to embrace whatever mood they are in as we work together on finding the angles and poses that portray your personality, thoughts, and emotions. Sessions are so much fun when we both enjoy the moment and forget about facades and, honestly, the fact that there’s even a camera there.
5.) Be Intentional With Your Wardrobe
Again, for portrait sessions, less really is more! To simplify, follow these pointers:
Wear clothing that fits and flatters you best, and that you feel comfortable in. This has the largest impact on your confidence!
Stay away from stripes and patterns since they can often conflict with other elements in your portrait.
Logos can be very distracting, so it’s important to choose an outfit that is void of any brand names and unnecessary trademarks.
Consider wearing neutral colors such as black, beige, tan, grey, and white. These are best for complimenting skin tones and harmonizing with any background elements.
Lastly, if you regularly wear glasses, wear them during the shoot as well! You’ll want to look and feel as you normally do. I know how to avoid glare when photographing, so don’t worry about that being a potential issue.
6.) Minimal Jewelry
Again, any less-dramatic, daily jewelry you wear is welcome. However, it’s preferable to not over-do it with extra, flashier accessories. A good rule of thumb is: if you’re wondering if it’s going to be distractive, it probably is.
7.) Hair and Makeup
These are two very important elements. I strongly suggest having your hair styled and makeup professionally done. We collaborate with a great make-up artist and offer that option along with the shoot for a separate fee. Investing in professional makeup can be a total game changer.
8.) Tanning
We do not recommend tanning, although a fresh tan (whether it’s natural/derived from purposely being outdoors, from a bed, or a spray) may look good in person, but a camera is considerably more sensitive to skin tones. Your natural coloring will always be more flattering in photographs.
9.) Options
Bring at least one extra shirt or outfit a long with you. You’re a multi-faceted person with multiple aspects to your look and personality. I want to make sure we try to capture and showcase all of the most important parts of you. Be mindful not to bring too many extra pieces, since we don’t want you to feel overwhelmed. Two or three options total is ideal.
10.) Be Prepared to Have Fun
Now that you have all these portrait planning tips, you’re ready to shine! Take the necessary measures, but ultimately, just take a deep breath and trust me to create all the perfect shots for you. It brings me joy and fulfillment to get to know you and help you be seen as your absolute best self.
Washington DC Therapist Headshot
As you can probably imagine, Washington, DC Talk Therapy is on the rise. Mental health professionals have been a godsend in the time of the COVID-19 Pandemic. With the escalating need for this service, I’ve also seen an influx in DC Therapists needing portraits that represent authenticity, approachability, and friendliness. These are just a few of the key words and elements that go along with what I aim to produce in my portraits for them. Let me tell you how exactly I went about incorporating those into my work.
I was excited when Ronald Esquivel, professional DC Talk Therapist and Relationship Coach contacted me.
For this shoot, I chose to avoid any set-ups that could be perceived as ‘corporate’. My plan then, was to create portraits in a relaxed environment that were more reminiscent of a therapist’s office. Even when I used a studio set up, I made sure to give the space more character and direct more casual posing.
As always, It’s important to have a good energy with clients so they can feel comfortable in front of the camera. Ronald and I spent about twenty minutes chatting before I ever picked up my camera. Once we started shooting, there was already a sense of confidence and trust between us. I think this really shows in the final photos. Things were flowing so well, that we even managed to have Ronald shave in between shots so we could try out and capture a completely different look.
Here are a couple of the portraits that we captured inside and directly outside of my Washington, DC Photography Studio:
Interested in expanding your personal brand with photo and video? We can help. Fill out a contact form here :
Top Washington DC Portrait Photographer Elliott O'Donovan
As one of Washington DC’s top portrait photographers, I’m always excited when given the opportunity to help small business owners completely rebrand their image.
This project was no exception. Edith of Edith Gregson Interiors reached out to me to help her update her online presence with new portraits, as well as a promotional ‘About Me’ short film. They’re all about creatively surpassing the line of expectation and completing personal and unique spaces. I think we embodied that vision and hit it out of the park!
Here are some of the final portraits I took of her here at my Washington DC Photography Studio.
It is important to have a good energy with clients so they feel comfortable in front of the camera. Edith and I spent about 15 minutes chatting it up before I even took a single photograph. This really enabled us to build a rapport which I think shows in these photographs.
Take a look at the short film we produced here:
Interested in expanding your personal brand with photo and video? We can help. Fill out a contact form here: https://www.elliottodonovan.com/contact
WASHINGTON DC FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER
WASHINGTON DC FASHION PHOTOGRAPHER
Hey guys! I'm really excited to share my latest behind the scenes video with you. In this short video, I wanted to focus on what goes into working with a creative team for a major online retailer. We had a relatively short time to shoot 10 different looks with a different change of background for each look. I knew I had to pack light so I stuck with two lenses, one camera body, and a white/silver reflector to keep things moving. I think it's important for photographers to choose wisely when it comes to preparing. I initially considered bringing my Profoto B1's but decided the set-up time would take too long, therefore hindering my ability to produce every look.
The results turned out just the way I wanted them. Light and airy, spring themed, and clean. That reflector does wonders.
See the BTS Video Below.
Here are some of my favorite shots from the session.
Big thanks to Paris Preston for filming and editing this short for me. Check his site here - www.parispreston.com
Interested in what gear I used for this shoot? Check the list below. and click the links to see the items for sale online.
Camera Body : Nikon D750
Lenses : Nikon 80-200mm 2.8, Sigma 50mm Art 1.4
Reflector: Impact 5-in-1 Collapsible Oval Reflector - 42x72"
Assistant : Noemi - NOT for sale! :p
Interested in setting up a shoot? Take a second to fill out my contact page and I'll get right back to you. Don't be shy!
UNDER ARMOUR // COMPLEX MAGAZINE - BEHIND THE SCENES
I was recently commissioned to photograph the lead design team for Stephen Curry's new basketball sneaker. This particular shoot was for a feature in Complex Magazine with the intention of focusing on some of the specific details that went into the design of the sneaker. I wanted to focus on highlighting those details so I decided to use a two light set-up. We didn't have a lot of time to play with multiple lighting scenarios so I made sure to have an easily mobile unit. My assistant acted as a human light stand and carried my beauty dish on a monopod while I had easy mobility with a portable ring light directly on camera. Have a look at some of the final images plus an awesome BTS video filmed by Jon Armstrong of The Documentist
UNDER ARMOUR // COMPLEX MAGAZINE - BEHIND THE SCENES
ENTRY LEVEL CAMERA ADVICE
Ready for your first professional camera? Here's my advice.
One of the most commonly asked questions I receive is, "Elliott, I love photography and want to take the step into the professional camera world... What should I buy??" This has always been a really tough question for me to answer because I know from personal experience that photography tends to be a never ending money pit. I've finally decided to crack and give advice from my personal experiences in becoming a photographer. This is the advice that I wish someone had given me when I purchased my very first camera.
DISCLAIMER - This advice is strictly my personal opinion & not meant to set the standard for what's right or wrong when making your own decision.
Starting off... Point & Shoot cameras.. Pro's and Cons.. Sub $1000 range.
The high end point and shoot camera will have it's advantages in portability, but will lack in adaptability.. I.E. you won't have full range of zoom. Point & Shoots are great if you want something to put in your pocket and bring to parties, on vacations, or just to have as an extension of your iphone. That's about where I would draw the line.
In my experience, your best bet is to invest in an entry level digital slr camera with a QUALITY piece of glass.
The Camera
The Nikon D5500 just came out. I'm not going to get into the technical nitty gritty so I'll stick to what features stand out the most about this camera to me.
- EXPEED 4 Image Processor - Better image quality of EXPEED 3, Higher ISO capabilities(Better low light image quality),
- Built in Wifi - Transfer images from your SLR directly to your iphone/ipad etc.. Great feature if you like to edit images on your phone and upload them straight to Instagram!
- Swivel Screen - I LOVE this feature.. Didn't think I would use it often until I purchased the D750.. The swivel screen allows you to get a completely different perspective while still being able to maintain your composition.
- 1080p Video recording at 60fps - Epic slow motion videos with 1080p quality.
The Lens
If I could only choose one lens as a starter for my SLR camera I would go with a 35mm fixed prime lens.
The Nikon AF-S Nikkor 35mm 1.8/G DX lens will set you up perfectly.
- Max Aperture f/1.8 - This basically means that you'll be able to get that cool fuzzy background when taking pictures! AKA - Shallow Depth of Field.
- Low light flexibility - You're going to find yourself in situations where you have to decide whether to crank up your ISO(cameras sensitivity to light) or open up your aperture to bring in more light. The solution is balance. You will need a lens that can give you the option. Hence the maximum 1.8 aperture of the lens.
- Sharpness - I find that entry level prime lenses are undoubtedly sharper then the alternative zoom lenses at the same price range. Now this is from my personal experience...
Here are some example images from a 50mm lens on a full frame camera to give you a rough idea of the focal range from a 35mm on the crop sensor of the D5500.
The D5500 has a crop sensor which means that your 35mm lens will be closer to the equivalent of a 50mm lens on a full frame camera. Great for portraits. Wide enough walking around.. The f/1.8 aperture gives you enough to speed to get great depth of field as well as the ability to shoot in low light situations.
Final Words..
So with the D5500 and the Nikon 35mm lens you're looking at spending right around $1100. Throw in a couple of memory cards and a camera bag and it's safe to say that you'll be walking out of the store spending around $1300. I know you're probably thinking, "$1300?!? What!? I wanted to spend $500 max!!" Well, here lies the problem with asking a professional photographer what camera you should buy. I'm going to tell you that you need to spend this much because you will be slapping yourself 3-6 months down the road when you realize that the $500 that you spent isn't doing what you expected.. Yes, the photographer makes the picture not the camera.. blah blah blah... But I'm telling you, you'd be better off upgrading your smart phone rather than spending $500 on a point and shoot. Just my two cents.
Purchase the Nikon D5500 here and the Nikon 35mm here from B&H Photo.
Short on cash but want it now? B&H Photo offers 6 month financing with no payments and no interest using PayPal credit during checkout. I've used this service to accumulate 95% of my gear over the years.