Viewing entries tagged
toledo headshots
Professional headshots are important to me because I believe it is crucial to have a good looking representation of yourself. Whether that is in a suit and tie or everyday clothes. I think it is smart to have a professional's point of view and skills to help you best stand out.
Did you know that we don’t just photograph headshots in the studio? We also offer for our clients to have their professional photos outdoors. These photos with Matthew were taken at Wildwood Metropark. We stayed close to the manor house but focused specifically on brick and leafy areas.
Why are professional headshots important to you? “They are the face you put out to the world, so you want them to be an honest reflection of how you look and how you present yourself to prospective clients and opposing counsel.”
Women’s History month means we want to show off some of the amazing ladies we have gotten to work with. Lexie volunteered last summer to stand in for some headshots when Jessica was training. Since these photos were taken, Lexie has opened her own studio space and really begun to build her own photography brand here in Toledo. It is really wonderful to see our peers growing and contributing to our industry!
Everything on the internet - but especially headshots - represents your brand. Reputation is tremendously important and that really starts with the first image that people see of you. If “there is no second chance for a first impression,” it’s all the more important that your headshots portray a positive and professional image.
“I am passionate about this profession because I enjoy being a listener and source of support for those sharing stories of trauma, life challenges, resiliency, hope. Making a human connection with others while providing a space for individuals to be vulnerable in an otherwise world that can feel chaotic and unsafe at times motivates me to show up for them consistently.”
“There was a summer I spent at the hospital volunteering 8 hours a day while my mom was working there as a nurse. I had spent a lot of time on the floors, making hourly rounds on the patients and asking if they felt comfortable or if there was anything I could get for them. I had a lot of free time, so I would spend it talking to the patients on the floor. I realized that I really enjoyed just talking to and getting to know them. When they had questions about their care, I wanted to be able to explain what was going on and how it impacted their health.”
Anyone who knows me, knows how much I value being good at what I do. Trusting someone else to take on a big role in my business was a little scary at first. But I have a desire to grow this business and to serve a larger clientele base. Making the choice to bring in an associate who cares just as deeply about being good at what she does, working hard, and creating lasting memories for clients is the logical next step for this business.
“I love what I do because I'm able to help people when they are in need. Someone who's too sick or injured to work has their entire life upended. Giving some type of security to that person is an incredible feeling.”
Some feel hesitant to take new headshots because they might think they see some new wrinkles, a few additional pounds, slightly thinner hair… I want to remind you that what prospective clients actually see in your photo is your friendly smile and your confident posture. They see someone they may feel comfortable working with, comfortable trusting.
Having your employee’s faces on your business website can help your office to stand apart. As I peruse many websites for local businesses and services, I am disappointed at how many do not include the faces of their staff, owners or management. Putting real faces with your brand’s name helps to convey a sense of trustworthiness and responsibility to potential clients.
“Rebecca was filled with motivational words, which is what several people need during this pandemic. The world felt uncertain to me, and she reminded me that I certainly deserved an opportunity where I could leverage all of the experience I have gained.”
Being a small business owner in Toledo means I know how much work goes into successfully promoting yourself in any career. Having a great headshot means potential clients and customers know exactly who they will be working with. A person gets to put a face with your name and that can build trust and create a consistent client experience. Having a professional headshot is a really important part of any brand.
“I’ve been told I have a very warm, calming presence which is really beneficial because most clients come to my chair really nervous for a big event or shoot that I’m getting them ready for. I help them focus and calm their nerves either by talking or using tools/products that help them relax.” -Amy Lewis
Is there a piece of professional advice you received that has stuck with you on your career journey? Every call counts. Every day counts. It's easy to allow negative experiences and failures to discourage you, especially early in your career. However, we can learn from every experience and grow. I believe that failure is essential. I don't fear failure for this reason - I'm actually motivated by it.
“Femininity appears to be one of those pivotal qualities that is so important no one can define it.” -Caroline Bird
Today marks four years since I filed for my business license with the state. Four whole years!
If you hadn't noticed, I have learned a lot in that time. I work really hard to be very good at what I do. I am not a half-ass kind of person and I am going to make sure I can do a good job. I take every opportunity to learn something and I invest in my education. Skill and practice are integral to doing my job well.
I was contacted by Stacey a couple days later and we set up a networking meeting. As a business owner, it is so beneficial to make connections and grow relationships with other local professionals. I highly value having a list of service providers that I trust to refer my friends and clients to. Stacey explained how passionate she is about changing the face of her industry and calling her peers to a higher service standard. She hopes to see more diversity in the professional world, specifically more women entrepreneurs. Stacey enjoys using her time to network and invest in the community as well.
What is one tip you would give other self-employed professionals who are just starting out? Business can be rocky, especially at the beginning, so it’s important to keep developing ideas—to be innovative, to try new things. Don’t become stagnant. Keep learning—attend conferences, workshops, webinars. If one thing doesn’t work, try something else. Observe and learn what your clients want, and adjust your services accordingly. I’ve learned in life that things often don’t go as planned. This is true in business as well. Don’t fight it; go with it! Being stuck in one certain mindset can be damaging to your business’s success.
Headshots are important in the professional world. Not only do they impact how your peers see you, they can direct how your potential clients think about you. Just like your store front, logo, and website create an experience for your customers, your own image is also an important part of your brand. A person who presents a sloppy appearance could be labeled as someone who might not take pride in their work. A nervous or angry expression could make clients wonder if you are difficult to work with. An outdated headshot may remind you of a younger self, but it will confuse peers when they meet you in person.
