Blog Member Stories
What does your profile picture say about you?
In a busy and cluttered market space we all know how important it is to have a brand that’s authentic. If you’re a business owner or even thinking about your next career move, your profile picture is effectively your brand. It’s your visual digital footprint of yourself. So what does your profile picture say about you?
Rarely do I meet a professional who enjoys having photos taken of themselves. I definitely don’t, but I do understand the value of having an image that presents a perspective or version of myself that I want people to see. And one that I hope encourages people to hire me.
Anyone can take an okay head shot on their iPhone, but do they have the skill to understand the purpose it’s going to serve? I’ve frequently heard friends say, “I’ll get a photo of myself in a specific outfit in a specific place”. And I ask them why? They say, “because it’ll look nice”. As a professional photographer I’d challenge that approach, and get them to consider this series of questions, which I ask all new clients:
- What’s your industry?
- What’s the expected dress code and style of shot?
- What are your interests?
- How do you want people to perceive you?
- Where do you want your business or your next role to take you?
Only then can you move towards a portrait that presents the most authentic version of you. I can’t promise a well considered and appropriate photo will get you a new job or secure that deal. But it will give the intended recipient a far better and more well rounded ‘picture of you’. First impressions really do count.
Here’s a selection of portraits I’ve taken for my clients.
Fiona Burrage is a photographer specialising in people and places. If you’d like to commission her to present the most beautiful and simple version of you, email: hello@fionaburrage.com or call: 07788 707 555.