Original post: http://www.eved.com/blog/lights-camera-action-headshots-on-a-budget
As an early stage but rapidly growing company, we still get down to our startup roots from time to time. Recently, conversation sparked in the office about needing updated headshots and that’s exactly what we did.
After a couple pricey bids, we got crafty. Marianne Schrader, Eved’s Strategic Account Director, had a professional camera but limited experience taking headshots. That’s when we turned to the internet and discovered LinkedIn’s helpful headshot hints.
Everyone’s first questions was around wardrobe. What do we wear? It seems like a simple enough question but really a larger picture needs to be painted first.
1: Define your company culture
Personality is a large part of any startup or large corporation. Internally, it builds a deeper connection between employees and the organization. Externally, it attracts like-minded clients and fosters a relationship between clients and your brand.
At Eved, we’re a young technology company who thrives on the success of our clients. We’re innovative, engaging and we love to celebrate. The vibe we wanted to portray in our headshots was a group of energetic, forward thinkers who you would want to enjoy a cocktail with at the end of a long, successful project.
2: Pick a location.
This goes back to your brand and company culture. A large part of our company culture is based in Eved’s hometown, Chicago. We’re big supporters of the local tech scene and take advantage of the countless activities Chicago offers from professional to personal.
Where better for us to take pictures than along Chicago’s river with staple builds and bridges in the background.
3: What to wear
At last, back to the original question. LinkedIn had a great tip for this one - Dress like you. The you you want to present to the world. Don’t be afraid to show your personality.
As an early-stage tech company, black suits aren’t in our genes. We’re more laid back. Not sweatpants laid back, but a pull-together spin on business casual. Everyone was instructed to look polished, professional but not uptight. Again, someone our clients would want to celebrate with.
4. Have some fun with it
A stiff headshot is a dull headshot. Shoot your headshots in the presence of colleagues you feel comfortable around and who can make you loosen up and laugh. For a more natural smile, LinkedIn suggests saying words that end in “uh” like “pizza” or “yoga.”
5. What to do with your pictures
I mentioned it earlier that clients connect with a brand and staff from sales to support and marketing to tech are an extension of a brand. These pictures can be used for LinkedIn, social media, newsletters or email signatures. With so many business relationships developed over email and phone, offering clients a personal connection by way of a picture can help strength that valuable relationship. It reminds clients and prospects that there’s an actual person behind all of your virtual communication.
Original post: http://www.eved.com/blog/lights-camera-action-headshots-on-a-budget
