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.