The Visual Story of Shael Risman: CEO of PACE Technical

The Visual Story of Shael Risman: CEO of PACE Technical

They define “headshot” as a picture of someone’s head or face in the dictionary. A tool used in acting to get the job and in the new pandemic world literally the first touch point most of your clients will see. After seeing an image the client will make decisions on several fronts including are you likeable, competent and influential.

As a CEO Shael Risman spends sometimes as much as 12 hours a day on zoom and meeting software. He manages a company with over 30 staff and to say an online impression is paramount is an understatement. Meeting in person is on pause while we battle the pandemic and vaccinate the population so a series of good headshots allows Shael and his team to get down to business.

Shot on basic black we worked with Shael to style him in a grey neutral look which gives the entire series a modern, sophisticated and classic look. Wardrobe advice is included in all sessions in our preparatory call and PDF guide.

Knowing that Shael is launching a podcast which will further showcase his innovation and leadership there was room in this session for a strong image that breaks a few “headshot rules” but tells the story of this visionary leader.

If you are from the Durham Region and recognize Shael he is also a skilled actor/director and dedicated member of the Whitby Courthouse Theatre. His comfort on stage lends itself to the ease behind the lens which makes telling his story that much more fun.

For good measure we did add in one traditional headshot – even lighting, catch lights in both eyes – but there is no reason a headshot cannot (as seen above) play with those rules, play with the lighting and break out from those “rules”.

I thought I would give Shael the last word on this session as he posted this shortly thereafter:

“Trinity Design Photography are miracle workers plain and simple. Kirsten McGoey never fails to amaze me by her ability to capture exactly what I need. We wanted new pics for the podcast PACE Technical is launching as well as other professional initiatives, but a lot of times when you deal with commercial photography, the results can be a bit staid. I really wanted to have something that captured my professional persona – which – let’s be honest – does not fall easily into your usual CEO boundaries. I really don’t know how she does it but I’m so happy she does. “

If you and/or your team is looking for an update please connect with us to arrange a quote. We follow all protocols as outlined by the province and only shoot one session per day in studio. We also can come to your office to shoot a team with pre-booked appointments to ensure all COVID related protocols are taken into account.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller | Trinity Design Photography

The Visual Story of Neil Henderson

The Visual Story of Neil Henderson

We work with a lot of professionals in a variety of different industries – what ties all business professionals together is the need for a headshot that reflects who they are right now. An image that is crisp, clear, with proper highlights in the eyes and an outfit that supports your brand but doesn’t compete with the intention – a portrait of the person wearing them.

Neil is in Insurance with CAA and needed a look that reflected the brand he works for and his own personal brand. The corporate look was using black as a background – this is a nice modern change from all white all the time. We did two black options and one white for his final three images.

When you work for a company be sure to send us your corporate brand specifications for headshots so we create a product they can use in line with their branding.

When shopping for work wear always consider one or two jackets that have some texture without too much of a pattern. These add a nice look to headshots which typically do not include any pattern. The texture should be uniform and a colour that works with your colouring. Hint – almost everyone looks good in a blue to navy colour story. Avoid stripes and plaids which can be hard to smooth while editing.

We can often however break the rule of a pattern if it is subtle enough. Note his plaid and navy jacket here reads as a solid with some visual interest. We always recommend bringing multiple options so we can help you edit your closet to the right look for you. 

The listening or “Rhonda” poses are a staple here in the studio. We love how leaning forward elongates the neck, brings the shoulders into a listening pose and shows off the client no matter what age, gender or size they are. A little catch light in the eyes gives this pose the final touch.

If you are looking to update your professional look connect with us for your update.

Kirsten McGoey | Visual Storyteller | trinitydesign.ca

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